This High-Protein Chicken Salad with Whipped Cottage Cheese is a creamy, refreshing take on a classic, with all the protein you need to stay fueled. Blending cottage cheese and Greek yogurt creates a silky, mayo-free dressing that enhances every bite with a light, tangy flavor. Crunchy celery, red onions, and a touch of lemon juice bring a fresh contrast, making this salad both nourishing and delicious.
Enjoy it over fresh greens, tucked into a wrap, or as a protein-rich dip for crackers. It’s a perfect balance of creamy, crunchy, and zesty flavors that come together in minutes. Whether you’re looking for a quick meal prep option or a nutritious lunch, this dish is an easy go-to that keeps things light without sacrificing taste.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup celery, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup almonds, sliced (optional)
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries (optional)
Directions:
- In a food processor, blend the cottage cheese, Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper until smooth and creamy.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, celery, red onion, and parsley.
- Pour the whipped cottage cheese mixture over the chicken and toss until evenly coated.
- Fold in the sliced almonds and dried cranberries if using.
- Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Enjoy over greens, in a wrap, or with whole-grain crackers.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 10 minutes
Kcal: 210 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Chicken Salad with Whipped Cottage Cheese – A Healthy, High-Protein Meal
This Chicken Salad with Whipped Cottage Cheese is a delicious, high-protein, and nutritious alternative to traditional chicken salad. By swapping mayonnaise for whipped cottage cheese and Greek yogurt, this recipe delivers a light, creamy texture with added protein and fewer calories. It’s the perfect meal for those looking for a healthy, low-carb, and satisfying dish.
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Salad Recipe
This High-Protein Chicken Salad with Whipped Cottage Cheese is a nutritious twist on the classic dish, offering a creamy texture without the need for mayonnaise. Packed with lean protein, fresh vegetables, and a light, tangy dressing, this recipe is perfect for those looking for a healthy, low-carb, and satisfying meal.
What makes this recipe unique is the use of whipped cottage cheese and Greek yogurt, which create a smooth, high-protein dressing. Unlike traditional chicken salad, which is often heavy with mayo, this version provides a lighter and more nutrient-dense alternative while maintaining that creamy and delicious texture.
Health Benefits of This Recipe
- High in Protein:
- Both chicken breast and cottage cheese are excellent sources of lean protein, helping with muscle growth, satiety, and overall health.
- Low in Calories and Carbs:
- This salad is naturally low in calories and carbohydrates, making it a great option for weight loss, keto, or low-carb diets.
- Rich in Nutrients:
- With celery, red onion, and fresh herbs, this salad adds vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants to your meal.
- Dairy-Based Creaminess Without Mayo:
- Instead of using mayonnaise, this recipe uses Greek yogurt and cottage cheese, offering a creamy texture with added probiotics and calcium.
- Easy to Customize:
- You can modify this recipe to your taste—add more vegetables, swap proteins, or include different nuts and fruits for extra crunch and sweetness.
Ways to Serve This Chicken Salad
- Over a bed of greens: Serve on top of spinach, romaine, or arugula for a light and refreshing salad bowl.
- As a sandwich or wrap: Enjoy it in a whole-grain tortilla, pita, or lettuce wrap for a quick lunch.
- With crackers or veggies: Use cucumber slices, bell peppers, or whole-grain crackers for a healthy snack.
- Stuffed in an avocado or bell pepper: A low-carb, keto-friendly meal idea.
- Meal prep option: Store it in the fridge and enjoy throughout the week for easy grab-and-go meals.
How to Store This Salad
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Do Not Freeze: Due to the dairy content, freezing may alter the texture, making it less creamy when thawed.
Variations & Substitutions
- Dairy-Free: Replace the cottage cheese and Greek yogurt with dairy-free yogurt or mashed avocado for a creamy, dairy-free option.
- Add More Crunch: Toss in sliced almonds, pecans, or sunflower seeds.
- Sweeten It Up: Add a handful of dried cranberries, chopped apples, or grapes for a touch of natural sweetness.
- Spicy Kick: Sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a little heat.
- Different Protein Options: Swap chicken for canned tuna, shredded turkey, or chickpeas for a vegetarian twist.
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes! This salad tastes even better after a few hours in the fridge as the flavors meld together. Just give it a quick stir before serving.
Can I use canned chicken?
Absolutely! While fresh or rotisserie chicken is recommended for the best texture and flavor, canned chicken works great as a time-saving option.
Is this recipe keto-friendly?
Yes! This chicken salad is low in carbs and high in protein, making it a great option for keto and low-carb diets.
What can I use instead of cottage cheese?
You can substitute it with ricotta cheese, cream cheese, or Greek yogurt, but whipping the cottage cheese gives the best light and airy texture.
This Chicken Salad with Whipped Cottage Cheese is a simple, healthy, and delicious meal perfect for any time of the day. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch, meal prep idea, or a nutritious snack, this dish is sure to become a staple in your kitchen! Try it out and enjoy a protein-packed, mayo-free twist on a classic favorite.
Why This Chicken Salad Stands Out
- High-Protein & Low-Carb: Cottage cheese and chicken provide a lean protein boost without unnecessary carbs.
- Mayo-Free & Healthier: This version uses whipped cottage cheese and Greek yogurt for a rich, creamy texture without unhealthy fats.
- Great for Meal Prep: Easy to make in advance and perfect for quick lunches, wraps, or meal-prep bowls.
- Customizable: You can adjust the flavors, add-ins, and texture to suit your taste and dietary needs.
Nutritional Benefits of the Ingredients
This chicken salad is not only delicious but also filled with nutrients that support a healthy lifestyle.
Key Ingredients & Their Benefits
- Chicken Breast – A lean protein source that promotes muscle growth and keeps you full longer.
- Cottage Cheese – High in protein and calcium, it helps in muscle repair and is great for bone health.
- Greek Yogurt – A probiotic-rich food that supports digestion and adds a tangy, creamy texture.
- Celery & Red Onion – Low-calorie veggies that add crunch, fiber, and antioxidants.
- Lemon Juice & Dijon Mustard – Brightens the flavors and provides a zesty kick without added calories.
- Parsley & Almonds (Optional) – Adds freshness, crunch, and additional vitamins.
Conclusion
This Chicken Salad with Whipped Cottage Cheese is a must-try recipe for anyone looking for a nutritious, delicious, and easy-to-make meal. Whether you enjoy it for lunch, dinner, or meal prep, it’s a versatile dish that keeps you full and energized throughout the day.
Give it a try and let us know how you like it! Would you like additional content like step-by-step images, nutrition facts, or pairing suggestions? Let me know what else I can add to enhance your website article! 😊