This Cottage Cheese Chicken Salad is light and tasty, with juicy chicken and creamy cottage cheese bringing a fun twist to your lunch. It’s fresh, healthy, and super easy to make!
I love how this salad is packed with protein, so it keeps me full longer. Plus, it’s great for using up leftover chicken. Perfect for those busy days when you need a quick meal! 🥗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Use any cooked chicken you have on hand. Rotisserie chicken is a great option for convenience, or leftover grilled chicken works well too. If you’re vegetarian, substitute with chickpeas or tofu for a protein boost.
Cottage Cheese: Low-fat cottage cheese adds a creamy texture. If you’re looking for dairy-free options, try mashed avocado or a vegan cream cheese. Greek yogurt is a good substitute for a similar texture and mild taste.
Celery: Celery adds a nice crunch. If you don’t have celery, diced bell peppers or cucumber can lend a similar texture and freshness. They’ll also brighten up the salad.
Fresh Herbs: I love using parsley and dill for their fresh flavors. If you can’t find these, try basil or cilantro for a different taste. Dried herbs can work, but use them sparingly as they’re more concentrated in flavor.
Lemon Juice: It brightens the flavors! If you’re out of lemons, lime juice is a great substitute. Try vinegar if you prefer a tangy kick; apple cider vinegar works especially well.
How Do I Get the Best Flavor in My Salad?
To truly enhance the taste of your Cottage Cheese Chicken Salad, take the time to let the ingredients meld in the fridge. Chilling not only improves flavor but allows the ingredients to combine nicely.
- Combine all your ingredients in a bowl as directed in the instructions.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes—though an hour or more is even better.
- Before serving, give it a soft stir to make sure everything is well mixed again.
This step is key to bringing all those fresh, crisp flavors together, making every bite delicious!
Delicious Cottage Cheese Chicken Salad Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or chopped
- 1 cup low-fat cottage cheese
- 1/2 cup celery, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced or chopped
- 1/2 cup cucumber, diced
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Cottage Cheese Chicken Salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare and about 30 minutes to chill in the refrigerator. In total, you’ll need about 45 minutes from start to finish, making this a quick and easy meal option!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, add your cooked chicken, low-fat cottage cheese, diced celery, cucumber, and red onion. These ingredients will bring a lovely mix of flavors and textures to your salad!
2. Add Fresh Herbs:
Next, sprinkle in the freshly chopped parsley and dill. These herbs will add a burst of freshness that’s essential for a delicious salad.
3. Drizzle with Lemon Juice:
Pour the lemon juice over the mixture. This will help brighten all the flavors and add a zesty touch!
4. Mix Gently:
Grab a spatula or large spoon and gently stir all the ingredients together until they are well combined. Be careful not to over mix; you want to keep that nice texture.
5. Season to Taste:
Now it’s time to season! Add salt and black pepper to taste. Give it another gentle stir to mix the seasonings in.
6. Chill Out:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld beautifully and gives it a refreshing taste.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
When you’re ready to eat, serve this delicious salad chilled! It’s fantastic on its own or can be enjoyed on whole grain bread or in lettuce wraps for a delicious meal.
Enjoy this fresh and creamy Cottage Cheese Chicken Salad as a healthy and satisfying dish perfect for any occasion!
Can I Use Leftover Chicken for This Salad?
Absolutely! Leftover chicken from a rotisserie or any cooked chicken is perfect for this salad. It’s a great way to repurpose leftovers and save time!
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the salad up to a day in advance. Just keep it covered in the fridge. The flavors will meld beautifully, making it even tastier when ready to serve!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Stir gently before serving, as the ingredients may settle.
Can I Substitute Greek Yogurt for Cottage Cheese?
Definitely! Greek yogurt is a great replacement if you prefer a creamier texture and a tangy flavor. It keeps the salad light yet still creamy!