High Protein Chicken Salad with Cottage Cheese is a dish that has truly become a staple in my kitchen. When I first made this recipe, I was looking for a way to combine the lean protein of chicken with the creamy goodness of cottage cheese for a healthy, filling meal. What started as a simple, last-minute creation quickly turned into one of my favorite go-to recipes. It’s the perfect balance of protein, flavor, and freshness, all packed into one dish.
I can still remember the day I first tossed together this high protein chicken salad with cottage cheese. I was trying to use up some leftover chicken, and with only a few ingredients in the fridge, I decided to add cottage cheese to the mix. The result was a surprisingly creamy and hearty salad, one that was light enough for lunch but satisfying enough for dinner. It’s now a regular on our menu, and what I love most is how easy it is to make—just a few simple ingredients and you’re done!
This high protein chicken salad with cottage cheese isn’t just delicious; it’s also a great way to get a protein-packed meal without feeling weighed down. With lean chicken, cottage cheese, and fresh veggies, it’s a versatile, nutritious choice that works for anyone looking to eat clean and feel great. Whether you’re making it for a quick lunch or prepping ahead for the week, this recipe is an easy way to enjoy a healthy, flavorful meal.
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How to Make High Protein Chicken Salad with Cottage Cheese
Making a high protein chicken salad with cottage cheese is not only simple but also incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re preparing it for a quick lunch or a nutritious dinner, this salad comes together in just a few easy steps. Here’s a breakdown of what you need and how to bring it all together.
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High Protein Chicken Salad with Cottage Cheese – A Quick & Healthy Meal
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
A healthy, protein-packed chicken salad with cottage cheese, perfect for meal prep, quick lunches, or a post-workout meal.
Ingredients
1.25 lb cooked chicken breast, shredded or chopped
1 cup cottage cheese
2 tbsp lemon juice
1 tbsp Dijon mustard
1/2 tsp maple syrup
2 tbsp fresh dill, finely chopped
3 tbsp scallions, thinly sliced
1 rib celery, finely diced
1/8 tsp salt, more to taste
1/4 tsp black pepper, more to taste
1/2 tsp garlic powder
Instructions
Blend the cottage cheese until smooth and creamy, or leave curds for texture, using a blender or immersion blender.
In a medium bowl, combine blended cottage cheese with fresh dill, scallions, celery, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, maple syrup, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
Add the shredded or chopped chicken breast to the mixture and combine well. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
Notes
Recipe makes roughly 5-6 cups of chicken salad, so nutrition facts are based on an approximate serving of between 3/4 and 1 cup. Nutrition facts are based on 6 equal servings.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-cook
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Calories: 190 kcal
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 305mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 0.4g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 82mg
Ingredients You’ll Need for the Perfect Salad
To get started, you’ll need a few basic ingredients to make your high protein chicken salad with cottage cheese shine. These ingredients are nutritious, easy to find, and come together to create a refreshing meal that’s packed with protein. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1.25 lb cooked chicken breast, shredded or chopped
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1/2 tsp maple syrup
- 2 tbsp fresh dill, finely chopped
- 3 tbsp scallions, thinly sliced
- 1 rib celery, finely diced
- 1/8 tsp salt, more to taste
- 1/4 tsp black pepper, more to taste
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
Step-by-Step Guide to Assembling Your High Protein Chicken Salad with Cottage Cheese
Once you have all your ingredients ready, it’s time to bring everything together. The beauty of this high protein chicken salad with cottage cheese is that it’s all about simplicity, and the prep time is minimal.
- Blend the Cottage Cheese: Start by blending the cottage cheese. You can use either a standard blender or an immersion blender. Blend until smooth and creamy, or leave some curds for a bit of texture if you prefer. Pro tip: you can even use the container the cottage cheese comes in to blend it—no need to dirty extra dishes!
- Make the Dressing: In a medium bowl, combine the blended cottage cheese with fresh dill, scallions, celery, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, maple syrup, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir well until everything is combined into a creamy dressing.
- Add the Chicken: Once the dressing is mixed, add in the shredded or chopped cooked chicken breast. Stir the chicken well into the dressing so that it’s fully coated.
- Taste and Adjust: Taste your high protein chicken salad with cottage cheese and add additional salt and pepper to suit your flavor preferences. You can even drizzle in more maple syrup for a touch of sweetness if desired.
- Serve and Enjoy: This recipe makes approximately 5-6 cups of salad, so it’s perfect for meal prep. Serve it right away or refrigerate it for later. The flavors blend together beautifully over time, making it even better after a few hours.
This high protein chicken salad with cottage cheese is delicious on its own, but it can also be served with crackers, over leafy greens, or wrapped in a lettuce leaf for a low-carb version.
Why High Protein Chicken Salad with Cottage Cheese is the Best Meal
A high protein chicken salad with cottage cheese is not just a delicious dish—it’s also an excellent choice for anyone looking to boost their protein intake without sacrificing taste. Packed with lean protein from the chicken and the creamy goodness of cottage cheese, this salad offers a variety of benefits that make it the perfect addition to your meal plan.
The Power of Protein in Your Diet
When it comes to building muscle, recovering after a workout, or simply maintaining a healthy lifestyle, protein is essential. This high protein chicken salad with cottage cheese provides a generous serving of protein in each bite. With 34 grams of protein per serving, it’s a great way to fuel your day, especially if you’re looking for a meal that will keep you full longer.
Protein also plays a critical role in supporting your immune system, repairing tissues, and even producing hormones and enzymes. The combination of lean chicken and protein-packed cottage cheese provides an optimal balance, offering both slow-digesting protein and fast-acting protein that your body can use throughout the day.
A Salad That Works for Every Meal of the Day
One of the best things about this high protein chicken salad with cottage cheese is how versatile it is. You can enjoy it as a light lunch, a post-workout meal, or even a quick dinner. Its high protein content makes it particularly useful for those on a high-protein or low-carb diet, but it can easily be tailored to fit various eating preferences.
For those looking to manage their weight or maintain a healthy body composition, a high-protein meal like this one can help curb cravings and reduce the need for snacking between meals. The salad is also nutrient-dense, providing vitamins and minerals like calcium and potassium, without loading you up with empty calories.
Creative Variations on the High Protein Chicken Salad with Cottage Cheese
While the classic high protein chicken salad with cottage cheese is already packed with flavor and nutrition, there are many ways you can customize it to suit your taste or dietary preferences. Whether you’re looking to add more texture, flavor, or variety, here are a few creative variations to make this salad even more exciting.
Add Veggies or Fruits for Extra Flavor
If you love a little extra crunch or sweetness in your salad, consider adding more vegetables or even some fruit. For example, you could toss in some:
- Avocado: Adds creaminess and healthy fats to the salad.
- Apple slices: For a touch of sweetness and a crisp texture.
- Carrots: Shredded carrots add a pop of color and a subtle, sweet crunch.
- Cranberries or grapes: A handful of dried cranberries or halved grapes can offer a lovely contrast to the savory chicken.
You can also replace the celery with other crunchy vegetables, such as bell peppers or cucumber. These additions will not only enhance the flavor but also boost the salad’s fiber and vitamin content.
Adjusting the Seasonings for Different Tastes
Want to change up the flavor profile of your high protein chicken salad with cottage cheese? Experiment with different seasonings and herbs to suit your mood. Here are a few options:
- Curry powder: Stir in a teaspoon of curry powder for a warm, flavorful kick with an exotic twist.
- Chili flakes: If you like a bit of heat, sprinkle in some red chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
- Garlic or onion powder: Enhance the savory taste by adding more garlic or onion powder.
- Fresh basil or cilantro: Swap the dill for fresh basil or cilantro for a completely new herbaceous twist.
These small adjustments can give your high protein chicken salad with cottage cheese a new spin while maintaining its wholesome, high-protein benefits.
Conclusion
The high protein chicken salad with cottage cheese is a nutritious and flavorful meal that’s perfect for any time of day. Whether you’re preparing it for a quick lunch, a post-workout snack, or meal prepping for the week, this salad is not only easy to make but also packed with lean protein to keep you full and energized. With the creamy texture of cottage cheese and the satisfying crunch of fresh vegetables, it’s a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in countless ways. Give this recipe a try and discover how simple and delicious eating healthy can be!
FAQ – High Protein Chicken Salad with Cottage Cheese
What can I use instead of cottage cheese in chicken salad?
If you’re not a fan of cottage cheese or need a dairy-free option, you can substitute it with Greek yogurt, which offers a similar creamy texture and high protein content. For a vegan alternative, blend silken tofu until smooth.
Is it possible to prepare this salad in advance?
Yes! The flavors in this high protein chicken salad with cottage cheese deepen and improve after a few hours. It’s a great dish for meal prep. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days.
Is this chicken salad suitable for a low-carb diet?
Yes, this salad is low in carbohydrates, especially if you skip or limit any added fruits like apples or grapes. It’s perfect for anyone following a low-carb or keto diet, as it focuses on protein and healthy fats.
Can I add nuts to this high protein chicken salad for crunch?
Absolutely! Adding nuts like almonds, walnuts, or pecans can provide an extra crunch and healthy fats to your high protein chicken salad with cottage cheese. Just keep an eye on portion sizes if you’re monitoring your calorie intake.