This Cottage Cheese Chicken Salad is a fresh and tasty meal! It combines juicy chicken with creamy cottage cheese and crunchy veggies. Super simple and packed with protein!
I love serving this salad on a bed of greens or with crackers for a fun lunch. It’s easy to whip up, and you’ll feel good eating something light yet filling!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Chicken Breast: Use shredded chicken for a tender texture. If you’re short on time, rotisserie chicken works wonders! You can also use turkey or canned chicken as substitutes.
Cottage Cheese: I prefer small curd cottage cheese for this salad as it mixes well with other ingredients. If you’re avoiding dairy, try using a plant-based yogurt for a similar creaminess.
Celery: Fresh celery adds a nice crunch! If you don’t have celery, chopped bell peppers or cucumbers can also bring a crisp texture.
Red Grapes: They add a hint of sweetness. In a pinch, try diced apples or berries instead if you want a different flavor.
Dill: Fresh dill is awesome, but if it’s not available, you can use dried dill or even parsley for a different herb twist.
How Do I Make Sure My Chicken Salad is Well Mixed?
Mixing ingredients properly ensures that every bite is flavorful. Here’s how:
- Start with a spacious bowl so you have room to mix.
- Combine the chicken and cottage cheese first, breaking up any large clumps of cheese.
- Add the veggies and grapes gently, folding them in to keep the mix light and fluffy.
- Incorporate the dressing ingredients gradually and adjust to taste.
This method helps the flavors blend better. Remember, don’t rush it—give it a good mix for a salad that tastes amazing! Enjoy your salad chilled for the best flavors.
How to Make Cottage Cheese Chicken Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
- 1 cup cottage cheese (small curd preferred)
- 1/2 cup celery, diced
- 1/2 cup seedless red grapes, halved
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried dill)
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise (optional, for creaminess)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Lettuce leaves, for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and can be chilled for about 20 minutes to really bring out those delicious flavors. In total, you’re looking at about 30 minutes before you can enjoy a fresh, tasty meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Base Ingredients:
First, grab a large mixing bowl. In it, combine the shredded cooked chicken and cottage cheese. Use a fork or spoon to mix them together until they’re well incorporated. You want a creamy mixture that binds the chicken together!
2. Add Fresh Veggies & Fruit:
Next, toss in the diced celery and halved grapes. The celery will provide a crunchy texture, while the grapes will add a touch of sweetness. Gently fold them into the chicken and cottage cheese mixture so everything is nicely distributed.
3. Stir in the Flavor Boosters:
Now it’s time to flavor up your salad! Stir in the chopped fresh dill, mayonnaise (if you’re using it), lemon juice, and Dijon mustard. Mix everything thoroughly until it’s well blended. This is where the magic happens!
4. Season to Taste:
Give your salad a little taste. Now’s the time to add salt and pepper according to your preference. Remember, you can always add a little more, but it’s hard to take it away!
5. Chill Before Serving:
Optionally, lay out some fresh lettuce leaves on a serving platter or individual plates. Spoon the chicken salad mixture onto the lettuce or serve it in a bowl. For the best flavor, cover and chill in the refrigerator for at least 20 minutes. Letting it sit helps meld the flavors together.
Enjoy your creamy, refreshing Cottage Cheese Chicken Salad! It’s perfect for lunch, a light dinner, or for a picnic treat!
Can I Use Rotisserie Chicken for This Salad?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and adds delicious flavor to the salad. Just shred the meat and you’re good to go!
How Long Does This Salad Last in the Refrigerator?
This chicken salad can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just give it a good stir before serving again!
Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
Yes, you can! Substitute the chicken with chickpeas or tofu and use a plant-based yogurt instead of cottage cheese. Adjust seasonings as needed for flavor!
What Additional Ingredients Can I Add?
Feel free to customize! Chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, add crunch, while diced apples or cranberries can provide a nice sweetness. Just make sure to adjust the seasoning accordingly!
