Quick Description
Shredded chicken, crisp cucumber slices, and creamy cottage cheese come together in this refreshing, high-protein bowl. It’s light yet filling, ideal for quick lunches, post-workout fuel, or meal prep. With minimal ingredients, you’ll have a nutrient-dense, protein-packed dish that takes minutes to throw together.
Servings & Timing
- Servings: 2 large bowls
- Prep Time: 10 minutes (if chicken is pre-cooked)
- Cook Time: 0 minutes (using rotisserie or meal-prepped chicken)
- Total Time: 10 minutes
Ingredients List
Base Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken breast (rotisserie or meal-prepped)
- 1 cup cottage cheese (low-fat or full-fat, depending on macros)
- 1 medium cucumber, sliced into rounds or half-moons
Seasoning & Flavor
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- Salt & black pepper, to taste
- Optional: a drizzle of olive oil or squeeze of lemon juice
Optional Add-ins
- Cherry tomatoes (for sweetness)
- Fresh dill or parsley (for brightness)
- Red pepper flakes (for a spicy kick)
Instructions
- Prep Ingredients – Shred cooked chicken breast if not already prepped. Wash and slice cucumber.
- Mix Base – In a large bowl, combine chicken, cottage cheese, and cucumber slices.
- Season – Add garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir gently until evenly mixed.
- Finish & Serve – Top with fresh herbs or spices of choice. Enjoy as-is or pair with sparkling water (like the Olipop soda in the photo).
Additional Notes
-
Macros (per serving, estimate):
- Protein: 38–42g
- Carbs: 7–8g
- Fat: 9–12g
- Calories: ~320–350
- This recipe can be doubled or tripled easily for weekly meal prep.
- Using rotisserie chicken saves time and adds extra flavor.
Dietary Info
- High Protein
- Low Carb
- Gluten-Free
- Keto-Friendly (if portioned with full-fat cottage cheese)
Recipe Variations & Serving Suggestions
- Mediterranean Bowl – Add cherry tomatoes, olives, and feta.
- Spicy Buffalo Bowl – Toss chicken with buffalo sauce before mixing.
- Avocado Boost – Add sliced avocado for creaminess and extra healthy fats.
- Crunch Factor – Toss in chopped celery or bell peppers.
- Wrap It Up – Serve inside a lettuce wrap for a handheld option.
Storage & Make-Ahead
- Store in airtight containers in fridge up to 3 days.
- Best eaten cold; no reheating needed.
- Keep cucumbers separate if meal-prepping to avoid sogginess.
FAQs
Q: Can I use Greek yogurt instead of cottage cheese?
Yes — it will make the mix tangier but just as high in protein.
Q: Can this be frozen?
Not recommended; cucumbers and cottage cheese don’t thaw well.
Q: Can I use canned chicken?
Yes — for a quick shortcut, canned chicken works fine. Drain well first.
Q: Is this a good post-workout meal?
Absolutely. It delivers fast-digesting protein and electrolytes from cucumber.
Optional Personal Story
“This bowl became my go-to desk lunch because it takes less than 10 minutes, no reheating required, and it keeps me full through long workdays. The cucumber crunch + cottage cheese creaminess makes it feel like more than just chicken.”
