Looking for a creamy, high-protein twist on classic chicken salad? This cottage cheese chicken salad is the perfect blend of rich flavor, satisfying texture, and wholesome nutrition—without the heaviness of mayo. Whether you’re aiming for a low-carb, weight-loss-friendly meal or just want a refreshing, protein-packed lunch, this recipe has you covered.
With tender grilled chicken, creamy cottage cheese, and crisp veggies, every bite is both nourishing and delicious. Serve it on lettuce wraps, or whole-grain toast, or enjoy it straight from the bowl—it’s that good! Ready to whip up this easy, guilt-free delight? Let’s dive in!
Key Benefits of Cottage Cheese Chicken Salad
Why should you swap traditional mayo for cottage cheese in your chicken salad? This simple switch not only boosts nutrition but also enhances the texture and flavor. Here’s why you’ll love this recipe:
✔️ High in Protein, Low in Calories – Cottage cheese adds a muscle-building protein boost while keeping the dish light and satisfying. Perfect for a healthy, weight-loss-friendly meal.
✔️ Creamy Without the Guilt – Enjoy a rich, velvety texture without the extra fat from mayonnaise. Plus, it blends beautifully with fresh herbs, Dijon mustard, and a squeeze of lemon juice.
✔️ Gut-Friendly & Nutrient-Rich – Packed with calcium, probiotics, and essential nutrients, cottage cheese supports bone health and digestion, making this salad a nourishing choice.
✔️ Versatile & Meal-Prep Friendly – Serve it as a lettuce wrap, sandwich filling, or on whole-grain crackers for a quick and easy lunch. It stays fresh in the fridge, making it perfect for meal prep.
Ingredients for Cottage Cheese Chicken Salad
Gather these fresh, wholesome ingredients to create a creamy, protein-packed chicken salad that’s both nutritious and delicious.
Main Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced – Use grilled, roasted, or rotisserie chicken for the best flavor.
- 1 cup low-fat cottage cheese – Adds a creamy texture and high-protein boost without extra calories.
- ¼ cup plain Greek yogurt – Enhances the creaminess while keeping it light.
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard – Gives a subtle tangy kick that complements the cottage cheese.
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice – Brightens the flavors and balances the richness.
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder – Adds a hint of savory depth.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper – For a little spice and warmth.
- Salt to taste – Adjust based on preference.
Add-Ins for Extra Flavor & Crunch:
- ¼ cup celery, finely chopped – Adds a refreshing crunch.
- ¼ cup red onion, finely diced – Brings a slight sweetness and bite.
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or dill, chopped – Infuses a bright, herby freshness.
- ¼ cup chopped nuts (almonds or walnuts) – Optional, but great for a nutty crunch.
This simple yet flavorful ingredient list creates a balanced salad that’s high in protein, low in carbs, and incredibly satisfying. Now, let’s put it all together!
How to Make Cottage Cheese Chicken Salad
This easy, protein-packed chicken salad comes together in just minutes! Follow these simple steps for a creamy, flavorful dish that’s perfect for meal prep, quick lunches, or a light dinner.
Step 1: Prep the Ingredients
- Cook and shred the chicken if you haven’t already. Grilled, poached, or rotisserie chicken works best.
- Finely chop the celery, red onion, and fresh herbs for a balanced texture.
- Drain excess liquid from the cottage cheese to keep the salad from becoming watery.
Step 2: Make the Creamy Dressing
- In a large mixing bowl, combine cottage cheese, Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice.
- Add garlic powder, black pepper, and a pinch of salt, then mix until smooth.
- For a smoother consistency, blend the cottage cheese mixture with an immersion blender before mixing with the chicken.
Step 3: Assemble the Salad
- Add the shredded chicken, celery, red onion, and fresh herbs to the bowl.
- Gently fold everything together until evenly coated and well combined.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Step 4: Chill & Serve
- For the best flavor, let the salad chill for at least 30 minutes before serving. This helps the flavors meld beautifully.
- Serve on lettuce wraps, whole-grain toast, or alongside fresh veggies for a satisfying meal.
This creamy, high-protein chicken salad is as simple as it is delicious! Now, let’s explore some pro tips and variations to make it your own.
Pro Tips and Variations for Cottage Cheese Chicken Salad
Want to take your cottage cheese chicken salad to the next level? Here are some pro tips and delicious variations to make it uniquely yours.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Salad
- Use cold chicken for a fresher taste and firmer texture. If you’ve made your chicken ahead of time, it’s even easier to assemble the salad!
- Taste as you go – Adjust the seasoning with a bit more lemon juice, mustard, or salt to suit your preferences.
- For a smoother texture, blend the cottage cheese with Greek yogurt before adding the other ingredients. This creates a velvety, creamy dressing that coats the chicken beautifully.
- Meal prep-friendly – This salad keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days, so it’s great for lunches or quick snacks throughout the week. Just store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh.
Creative Variations
- Add fruits for a sweet twist – Try adding diced apples, grapes, or cranberries for a refreshing contrast to the savory flavors.
- Spice it up – If you like a little heat, toss in some chopped jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper.
- Go Mediterranean – Add chopped cucumber, olives, and a sprinkle of feta cheese for a Mediterranean-style chicken salad.
- For extra crunch, throw in some toasted sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for a satisfying bite.
Whether you stick to the classic recipe or customize it with your favorite add-ins, this salad is endlessly versatile and sure to become a go-to meal in your rotation. Enjoy experimenting with these ideas!
Serving Suggestions for Cottage Cheese Chicken Salad
Once your cottage cheese chicken salad is ready, it’s time to get creative with how you serve it! This versatile dish pairs well with many options, whether you’re looking for a light lunch, a hearty meal, or a refreshing snack.
Delicious Ways to Serve Your Salad:
- Lettuce wraps – For a low-carb, keto-friendly option, wrap the salad in large romaine or butter lettuce leaves. It’s fresh, crunchy, and fun to eat!
- Whole-grain toast – Spread the salad on toasted whole-grain bread for a satisfying and slightly hearty option.
- Crisp crackers – Serve with whole-grain or seed crackers for a light, crunchy pairing that’s perfect for a snack or appetizer.
- On a bed of greens – Create a refreshing salad by placing the chicken salad on a bed of mixed greens or arugula. Top with a drizzle of balsamic glaze for extra flavor.
- In a wrap or sandwich – For a quick lunch, roll the salad up in a whole wheat wrap or place it between slices of whole-grain bread for a classic sandwich.
- With fresh veggies – Pair with crunchy raw veggies like carrot sticks, cucumber slices, or bell peppers for an extra dose of freshness.
For a Heartier Meal:
- Serve with a side of quinoa or brown rice – For a more filling, high-protein meal, serve the salad alongside a scoop of quinoa or brown rice.
- Pair with roasted sweet potatoes – For a wholesome, nourishing dinner, serve the salad with a side of roasted sweet potato wedges.
This creamy, protein-packed chicken salad is adaptable to any occasion and can easily be customized to your taste. Let your creativity shine as you explore these delicious serving ideas!
Conclusion: Why You’ll Love Cottage Cheese Chicken Salad
This cottage cheese chicken salad is a game-changer in the world of healthy, satisfying meals! It’s the perfect blend of creamy, crunchy, and flavorful with a protein-packed punch that will keep you feeling full and energized. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch, a quick dinner, or a meal prep-friendly option, this recipe ticks all the boxes.
It’s so easy to customize, making it a go-to for any day of the week. Plus, you can feel good about serving a dish that’s both delicious and nourishing, thanks to the high-protein chicken and cottage cheese.
So, whether you enjoy it in a wrap, on toast, or with a side of veggies, this chicken salad will quickly become a staple in your kitchen. Give it a try and see why it’s both a healthy and tasty choice for any meal!
FAQs About Cottage Cheese Chicken Salad
Do you have some questions about this creamy, protein-packed chicken salad? Here are the answers to a few common queries to help you make the most of this recipe!
Can I use cottage cheese instead of mayonnaise?
Absolutely! Cottage cheese is a great substitute for mayonnaise. It’s lower in fat, higher in protein, and adds a creamy texture without the heaviness. Plus, it offers a tangy flavor that complements the chicken perfectly. If you want an even smoother dressing, feel free to blend the cottage cheese with some Greek yogurt!
Is chicken salad healthy for weight loss?
Yes! This cottage cheese chicken salad is a healthy, low-calorie option for weight loss. With high protein from chicken and cottage cheese, it helps keep you feeling fuller longer while being low in carbs and free from mayo’s extra calories. It’s a nutritious, satisfying meal that supports weight management when paired with a balanced diet.
Does cottage cheese have as much protein as chicken?
While chicken is known for being an excellent source of protein, cottage cheese also packs a protein punch. It’s not quite as high in protein as chicken, but it’s a great complement to the chicken in this salad. For reference, 100g of chicken breast has around 30g of protein, while 100g of cottage cheese contains about 11-12g of protein. Together, they provide a balanced, protein-rich meal.