A fresh and flavorful chicken salad with cottage cheese, blackberries, and a low-carb twist, perfect for a light lunch!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Low-Carb Blackberry Cottage Cheese Chicken Salad is a refreshing, protein-packed dish that’s perfect for a light lunch or snack. The creamy cottage cheese pairs beautifully with the sweet-tart blackberries, and the chicken adds a satisfying amount of lean protein. With a simple dressing of lemon juice and olive oil, this salad is as healthy as it is delicious. Plus, it’s quick and easy to make, making it a perfect meal prep option for the week!
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, diced
- 1/2 cup cottage cheese
- 1/4 cup blackberries, mashed
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Directions
- In a bowl, combine the diced chicken, cottage cheese, mashed blackberries, lemon juice, and olive oil.
- Season with salt and pepper, then mix well until all ingredients are well combined.
- Serve on a bed of greens, in lettuce wraps, or with low-carb crackers.
Servings and Timing
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cooking Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Servings: 2 servings
Variations
- Add Veggies: Add diced celery, cucumbers, or bell peppers for added crunch and freshness.
- Nuts and Seeds: Stir in some chopped walnuts, almonds, or sunflower seeds for a nutty crunch.
- Dressing Options: Add a splash of apple cider vinegar or a drizzle of honey mustard for an extra layer of flavor.
- Cheese Swap: Try using Greek yogurt instead of cottage cheese for a tangier, creamier texture.
Storage/Reheating
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheating: This salad is best served cold and doesn’t require reheating. If you prefer, you can eat it at room temperature.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen chicken instead of cooked chicken?
Yes, you can use cooked, shredded frozen chicken. Just make sure to thaw it completely before mixing it with the other ingredients.
2. Can I make this salad in advance?
Yes, this chicken salad can be made ahead of time. Just store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. The blackberries may release some juice, but it’ll still taste great.
3. Can I add more fruit to this salad?
Yes! You can add other fruits like raspberries, strawberries, or blueberries for a mixed berry salad.
4. How do I make this salad spicier?
Add a dash of hot sauce or sprinkle some chili flakes to bring in some heat and balance the sweetness of the blackberries.
5. Can I use a different cheese instead of cottage cheese?
Yes, you can substitute the cottage cheese with ricotta, cream cheese, or Greek yogurt, depending on your preferences.
6. Can I use fresh blackberries instead of mashed?
Yes, you can use fresh blackberries, but mashing them helps incorporate the sweet-tart flavor evenly into the salad.
7. How can I make this salad more filling?
You can serve this salad with a side of roasted veggies or add avocado for a more satisfying meal.
8. Can I use a store-bought dressing?
Yes, you can use any low-carb dressing you like, such as ranch or vinaigrette. Just be mindful of the carb content if you’re keeping it low-carb.
9. How long can I store the leftovers?
You can store the leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. However, it’s best eaten fresh for the best texture.
10. Can I use this as a wrap?
Yes! You can spoon the chicken salad into lettuce leaves for a low-carb wrap, or use a whole-wheat or low-carb tortilla.
Conclusion
Low-Carb Blackberry Cottage Cheese Chicken Salad is a delicious and refreshing meal that’s both healthy and satisfying. Packed with protein and full of fresh, vibrant flavors, it’s perfect for a quick lunch or a light dinner. Whether you’re enjoying it on a bed of greens, in lettuce wraps, or with your favorite crackers, this salad is sure to become a go-to in your meal prep routine!
Print
Low-Carb Blackberry Cottage Cheese Chicken Salad
This Low-Carb Blackberry Cottage Cheese Chicken Salad is a refreshing, protein-packed meal that’s light, healthy, and easy to prepare. With creamy cottage cheese, sweet-tart blackberries, and tender chicken, it’s the perfect low-carb lunch or snack. Quick to make and ideal for meal prep, this salad is as delicious as it is nutritious!
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, diced
- 1/2 cup cottage cheese
- 1/4 cup blackberries, mashed
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine the diced chicken, cottage cheese, mashed blackberries, lemon juice, and olive oil.
- Season with salt and pepper, then mix well until all ingredients are fully combined.
- Serve on a bed of greens, in lettuce wraps, or with low-carb crackers.
Notes
- Add Veggies: For extra crunch and freshness, add diced celery, cucumbers, or bell peppers.
- Nuts & Seeds: Stir in some chopped walnuts, almonds, or sunflower seeds for a nutty texture.
- Dressing Options: Add a splash of apple cider vinegar or drizzle some honey mustard for added flavor complexity.
- Cheese Swap: If you prefer a tangier, creamier texture, substitute cottage cheese with Greek yogurt.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Salad, Lunch
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
