Chicken Salad with Cottage Cheese
You can eat it on its own, scoop it over greens, or even stuff it into a wrap. It’s flexible enough to fit into different routines without much effort.
Equipment
- Mixing Bowl
- Cutting board
- Sharp Knife
- Spoon or spatula
- Measuring spoons
- Fork (optional)
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast shredded or chopped
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 1 celery stalk finely diced
- 2 tablespoons red onion finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 –2 tablespoons mayonnaise optional, for extra creaminess
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Salt to taste
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley chopped (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the chicken
- Start by getting your chicken ready. If you’re using cooked chicken breast, shred it into bite-sized pieces using two forks or chop it into small cubes on a cutting board. Make sure the pieces are not too big so they mix well with the cottage cheese later.
- If you’re using rotisserie chicken, remove the skin and bones first, then shred the meat while it’s still slightly warm for easier handling.
- Pro tip: Let the chicken cool slightly before mixing so the cottage cheese doesn’t melt and lose its creamy texture.
Step 2: Chop the fresh ingredients
- Wash and prep your celery, onion, and parsley (if using). Dice the celery into small, even pieces so you get a nice crunch in every bite. Finely chop the red onion so it blends into the salad without overpowering it.
- Set everything aside in small bowls so assembly is smooth and quick.
Step 3: Make the creamy base
- In a large mixing bowl, add the cottage cheese, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, black pepper, and a pinch of salt. Stir everything together until it becomes smooth and well combined.
- If you’re using mayonnaise, mix it in at this stage for a richer, creamier texture.
- Pro tip: Stir slowly and thoroughly so the cottage cheese blends evenly with the seasonings—this is what gives the salad its signature creamy consistency.
Step 4: Combine everything
- Add the shredded chicken, chopped celery, onion, and parsley into the bowl with the cottage cheese mixture. Gently fold everything together using a spoon or spatula until the chicken is fully coated.
- Make sure every piece is evenly mixed so you get consistent flavor in every bite.
Step 5: Taste and adjust
- Give the salad a quick taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Add a little more salt, pepper, or lemon juice depending on your preference. If it feels too thick, you can loosen it slightly with an extra spoon of cottage cheese or a small splash of lemon juice.
Step 6: Chill or serve immediately
- You can serve the chicken salad right away, or let it chill in the fridge for about 20–30 minutes to let the flavors come together even more. Both ways taste great—it just depends on how patient you’re feeling.
- Scoop it onto toast, wrap it in lettuce, or enjoy it straight from the bowl.
Notes
Nutritional Value (Per Serving – Approximate)
- Calories: 220–280 kcal
- Protein: 28–32g
- Carbohydrates: 3–6g
- Fat: 8–12g
- Fiber: 0.5–1g
- Sugar: 2–4g
- Calcium: High