There’s nothing quite like the satisfying crunch of fresh celery paired with the sweetness of juicy grapes, all wrapped up in a creamy and tangy blend. That’s exactly what you’ll find in my High Protein Chicken Salad with Cottage Cheese—an irresistible dish that brings flavor and nutrition to your table in under 30 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep, this salad is not only quick to whip up but also packed with protein to keep you energized throughout the day. Serve it in a wrap or alongside some whole-grain crackers for a laid-back lunch that you can feel good about. Are you ready to dive into this deliciously nutritious recipe?
Why Is This Chicken Salad a Game Changer?
Quick Prep: This dish comes together in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy days.
High Protein Boost: With 40 grams of protein per serving, it’s perfect for anyone seeking to satisfy their hunger healthily.
Versatile Base: Enjoy it in a wrap, on whole-grain crackers, or even on its own. The serving options are nearly endless!
Nutritious Twist: The use of cottage cheese keeps calories in check while enhancing creaminess. It’s a great alternative to traditional mayo-heavy recipes.
Meal Prep Friendly: Make a big batch and store it in your fridge for up to 4 days—great for on-the-go lunches. Ready to elevate your lunch game? Check out this Cajun Chicken Sloppy for another delicious meal prep idea!
High Protein Chicken Salad Ingredients
For the Salad
- Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts – 1.4 lbs is the perfect protein-packed base that can also be swapped for 1 lb of cooked rotisserie chicken for a quick option.
- Chicken Seasoning – 2 teaspoons enhance flavor beautifully; feel free to use salt to taste if you’re in a pinch.
- Mayonnaise – 1/2 cup contributes a creamy texture; you can adjust this for richness based on your preference or even try a yogurt swap!
- Cottage Cheese – 1 cup boosts protein without the extra calories, making this a standout in our high protein chicken salad.
- Grapes – 65 g, quartered, introduce sweetness and a fun pop of texture; consider bell peppers as a tangy alternative!
- Celery Ribs – 2, chopped, add that essential crunch and fresh element to the mix.
- Fresh Lemon Juice – 1 tablespoon helps brighten up all the flavors; adjust to suit your taste.
- Dried Oregano – 2 teaspoons add a lovely herbal note to balance the salad.
For Extra Flavor
- Garlic Powder – A sprinkle adds depths of flavor; ideal for garlic lovers!
- Smoked Paprika – A pinch can offer a unique smokiness for those adventurous tastes.
- Onion Powder – For those who want an additional burst of flavor, it’s an easy addition!
- Salt and Pepper – To taste, always key for a well-seasoned dish.
Looking to create a satisfying, high protein chicken salad that will transform your lunch? Get these ingredients ready and let’s get started!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for High Protein Chicken Salad
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
Start by bringing a large pot of water to a rolling boil over medium-high heat. Season with 2 teaspoons of chicken seasoning, then carefully add 1.4 lbs of boneless skinless chicken breasts. Allow the chicken to cook for about 20 minutes, ensuring it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for perfect doneness. Once cooked, remove the chicken and let it cool before shredding.
Step 2: Blend the Base
While the chicken cools, grab a blender and combine 1 cup of cottage cheese and 1/2 cup of mayonnaise. Blend on high until the mixture is completely smooth, creating a creamy dressing that will form the heart of your High Protein Chicken Salad. Set the blended base aside while you prepare the remaining ingredients.
Step 3: Shred the Chicken
Once the chicken has cooled enough to handle, use two forks to shred it into fine pieces. Aim for bite-sized shreds that will mix easily with the other ingredients in your salad. Place the shredded chicken in a large mixing bowl, ready to be transformed into your chicken salad.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
To the bowl with the shredded chicken, add the smooth cottage cheese-mayo blend along with 65 grams of quartered grapes, 2 chopped celery ribs, and 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice. Sprinkle in 2 teaspoons of dried oregano for added flavor. Stir all the ingredients gently until thoroughly combined, ensuring every piece of chicken is coated in the creamy mixture.
Step 5: Chill the Salad
For the best flavor, transfer your High Protein Chicken Salad to an airtight container and refrigerate it for at least 1 hour before serving. This resting period allows the flavors to meld beautifully. However, if you’re short on time, feel free to serve immediately—it’s still delicious!
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once chilled, your High Protein Chicken Salad is ready to serve! Enjoy it wrapped in lettuce or whole-grain crackers for a nutritious lunch. Alternatively, savor it on its own for a refreshing, protein-packed meal. Store any leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days, making it a perfect choice for meal prep!
What to Serve with High Protein Chicken Salad
Transform your meal into a harmonious feast with these delightful pairings that complement the creamy, crunchy goodness of your chicken salad.
- Whole-Grain Crackers: Perfect for a satisfying crunch, these crackers add a nutty flavor that pairs wonderfully with the creamy salad.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits adds a sweet contrast, enhancing your meal with refreshing natural sugars and colors.
- Leafy Green Wraps: Swap out traditional wraps with crisp lettuce leaves for a low-carb option that adds freshness and an enjoyable crunch.
- Crispy Roasted Vegetables: Warm, caramelized veggies bring depth and heartiness, creating a comforting balance to the lightness of the salad.
- Cheese Platter: Serve with assorted cheeses for a richness that enhances the protein in the salad while offering a delightful textural contrast.
- Sparkling Water with Lemon: Quench your thirst with this refreshing drink, which complements the zesty flavors of the chicken salad beautifully.
- Garlic Breadsticks: Soft and flavorful, these result in a cozy pairing that brings an Italian twist, perfect for soaking up every last bit of your salad.
- Crunchy Veggie Sticks: Carrot, cucumber, and bell pepper sticks make a colorful and healthful side that adds crispness to your meal experience.
How to Store and Freeze High Protein Chicken Salad
Fridge: Store your chicken salad in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Be sure to keep it chilled to maintain freshness.
Freezer: It’s best not to freeze this high protein chicken salad due to the mayonnaise and cottage cheese, which may separate upon thawing, affecting the texture.
Serving Tips: If you intend to enjoy leftovers, simply serve the chilled salad in a wrap, or alongside crackers, for a refreshing meal anytime!
Reheating: If you opt for freshly cooked chicken, remember to let it cool completely before mixing with the other ingredients to preserve the salad’s crispy elements.
Expert Tips for High Protein Chicken Salad
- Creamy Adjustments: Feel free to modify the creaminess by adding more mayonnaise or cottage cheese. Taste as you go to find your perfect balance.
- Flavor Infusion: For enhanced taste, let your chicken salad chill for at least an hour; this allows the flavors to develop beautifully.
- Proper Shredding: Aim for fine shredded chicken for a more pleasant texture, especially if you plan to make wraps.
- Freshness Matters: Store in an airtight container to maintain freshness; consume within 3-4 days for the best quality of your high protein chicken salad.
- Substitution Savvy: Don’t hesitate to swap out grapes for crunchy bell peppers or even add in your favorite veggies—getting creative can elevate the dish!
Make Ahead Options
These High Protein Chicken Salad options are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during hectic weekdays! You can prepare the shredded chicken up to 3 days in advance; just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, the creamy cottage cheese and mayonnaise blend can be made 24 hours early and kept chilled until you’re ready to combine it with the remaining ingredients. To ensure the salad remains delicious, mix together the diced grapes, chopped celery, and other seasonings just before serving. This way, your high protein chicken salad will stay fresh and flavorful, allowing you to enjoy a quick, nutritious meal with minimal effort!
High Protein Chicken Salad Variations
Feel free to get creative with these delicious twists and substitutions to make this recipe your own!
-
Dairy-Free: Swap cottage cheese for silken tofu blended until creamy to keep it dairy-free while maintaining protein.
-
Add Crunch: Toss in some chopped nuts, like almonds or walnuts, for an extra crunchy texture that pairs well with the creamy ingredients.
-
Herbal Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like dill or cilantro; they’ll add a fragrant twist and additional flavors you’ll love!
-
Lower Carb: Omit the grapes and use diced cucumber or zucchini for a refreshing, crunchy change that reduces carbs.
-
Protein-Packed: Add some chopped boiled eggs for an extra protein boost that will keep you feeling full and satisfied!
-
Zesty Kick: Toss in a diced jalapeño or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy twist that kicks the flavor up a notch!
-
Veggie Loaded: Mix in shredded carrots, spinach, or kale to enhance nutrition while adding vibrant colors to your salad.
-
Alternative Base: Substitute chicken with cooked quinoa or chickpeas for a plant-based option that’s still high in protein!
Looking for more helpful ideas? Try making a wrap with the Dill Pickle Chicken or indulge in a comforting bowl of Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese for a twist on protein-packed meals!
High Protein Chicken Salad Recipe FAQs
What kind of chicken should I use for this salad?
Absolutely! You can use boneless skinless chicken breasts for the freshest flavor and highest quality protein. If you’re short on time, feel free to swap it with 1 lb of pre-cooked rotisserie chicken. It’s a delicious shortcut that still delivers a savory taste and texture!
How should I store this chicken salad for optimal freshness?
For best results, store your High Protein Chicken Salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Be sure to keep it chilled to maintain its deliciousness. Keeping it airtight helps prevent moisture from affecting the texture.
Can I freeze this chicken salad?
It’s best not to freeze this salad due to the mayonnaise and cottage cheese, which may separate and become watery when thawed. This will alter the texture and flavor. Instead, make it fresh and enjoy it within the recommended storage time.
What if I have leftover chicken? How can I use it?
If you have extra chicken, you can certainly combine it with different ingredients! For instance, shred it and toss it in a simple vinaigrette for a quick salad, or mix it into some pasta for a hearty meal. The more the merrier when it comes to leftovers!
Can I make this salad keto-friendly?
Very! This salad is already low-carb and high in protein, but if you want to reduce carbs even further, simply omit the grapes or substitute them with crunchy bell peppers. You’ll still get a delightful flavor and texture while keeping it keto-friendly.
High Protein Chicken Salad That'll Transform Your Lunch
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by bringing a large pot of water to a rolling boil over medium-high heat. Season with 2 teaspoons of chicken seasoning, then carefully add 1.4 lbs of boneless skinless chicken breasts. Cook for about 20 minutes until the internal temperature is 165°F.
- While the chicken cools, blend 1 cup of cottage cheese and 1/2 cup of mayonnaise until smooth to create a creamy dressing.
- Once cooled, shred the chicken into fine pieces and place in a large mixing bowl.
- To the shredded chicken, add the cottage cheese-mayo blend, quartered grapes, chopped celery, and lemon juice. Sprinkle in dried oregano and gently stir until combined.
- Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving.
- Serve chilled in lettuce wraps or with whole-grain crackers.
Leave a Reply