This High-Protein Cottage Cheese Chicken Salad is a fresh and flavorful twist on the classic chicken salad. Instead of mayonnaise, blended cottage cheese adds a creamy texture while boosting the protein content. Perfect for sandwiches, wraps, or as a salad topping, this light and nutritious dish is ideal for meal prep or a quick lunch.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- High in Protein: Cottage cheese and chicken provide a protein-packed meal.
- Healthier Alternative: Skips the mayo for a lighter, more nutritious option.
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just 15 minutes with no cooking required.
- Versatile: Enjoy as a sandwich filling, in a wrap, or on a salad.
- Great for Meal Prep: Stays fresh and delicious for several days.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 1.25 lb cooked chicken breast, shredded or chopped
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- ½ teaspoon maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
- 2 scallions (green onions), finely chopped
- 2 celery stalks, finely chopped
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Directions
- Blend the Cottage Cheese: In a blender or using an immersion blender, blend the cottage cheese until smooth and creamy.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, blended cottage cheese, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, maple syrup, fresh dill, scallions, celery, and garlic powder.
- Season: Stir until all ingredients are thoroughly mixed. Add salt and black pepper to taste.
- Chill for Best Flavor: Cover and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving to enhance the flavors.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve chilled as a sandwich filling, with crackers, in a wrap, or over a bed of greens.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4 servings
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
Variations
- Make it Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños for heat.
- Extra Crunch: Mix in chopped almonds, walnuts, or sunflower seeds.
- Different Herbs: Swap dill for parsley, basil, or chives.
- Dairy-Free Version: Use a dairy-free cottage cheese alternative.
- Fruit Twist: Add diced apples, grapes, or dried cranberries for a sweet contrast.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: This salad is best served cold, so no reheating is needed.
- Freezing: Not recommended, as the cottage cheese may change texture.
FAQs
1. Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Yes! Rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut and adds extra flavor.
2. Is there a way to make this salad lower in fat?
Use low-fat or fat-free cottage cheese for a lighter version.
3. What can I use instead of maple syrup?
Honey or a small amount of stevia works well as a substitute.
4. How can I make this salad more filling?
Serve it in a whole grain wrap, on whole wheat toast, or with quinoa.
5. Can I add avocado to this salad?
Yes! Mashed avocado adds extra creaminess and healthy fats.
6. What can I serve with this chicken salad?
It pairs well with fresh veggies, pita chips, or a simple side salad.
7. Can I meal prep this for the week?
Yes, but for the best taste and texture, consume within 3 days.
8. Can I make this without blending the cottage cheese?
Yes, but blending gives it a smoother, creamier consistency.
9. What’s a good substitute for Dijon mustard?
Yellow mustard or whole-grain mustard can be used instead.
10. Can I make this vegetarian?
Swap the chicken for chickpeas or tofu for a plant-based alternative.
Conclusion
This High-Protein Cottage Cheese Chicken Salad is a healthy and satisfying meal option, perfect for sandwiches, wraps, or salads. Packed with protein, fresh flavors, and a creamy texture, it’s an easy go-to recipe for meal prep or quick lunches. Try it today for a delicious, nutritious twist on classic chicken salad!
Print
High-Protein Cottage Cheese Chicken Salad
This High-Protein Cottage Cheese Chicken Salad is a healthy twist on the classic recipe, replacing mayo with creamy blended cottage cheese for extra protein and nutrition. Perfect for sandwiches, wraps, or salads, this easy meal-prep-friendly dish is light, delicious, and ready in just 15 minutes!
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1.25 lb cooked chicken breast, shredded or chopped
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- ½ teaspoon maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
- 2 scallions (green onions), finely chopped
- 2 celery stalks, finely chopped
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Blend the Cottage Cheese:
- In a blender or using an immersion blender, blend the cottage cheese until smooth and creamy.
- Mix the Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken, blended cottage cheese, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, maple syrup, fresh dill, scallions, celery, and garlic powder.
- Season to Taste:
- Stir well until fully combined. Add salt and black pepper to taste.
- Chill for Best Flavor:
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld.
- Serve & Enjoy:
- Serve chilled as a sandwich filling, in a wrap, with crackers, or over a bed of greens.
Notes
- Use rotisserie chicken for a quick and easy shortcut.
- Swap dill for parsley, basil, or chives for a different flavor profile.
- Add crunch with chopped nuts, sunflower seeds, or diced apples.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salads
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
