This Cottage Cheese Chicken Salad is a light and tasty dish that’s perfect for lunch! It combines tender chicken, creamy cottage cheese, crunchy veggies, and your favorite seasonings.
Sometimes, I pretend it’s a gourmet treat—who knew cottage cheese could be so cool? I love serving it on a bed of greens or in a sandwich. Yum! 🥗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Chicken: Shredded chicken breast is the star here, but rotisserie chicken works great for ease. You can also use turkey for a twist or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
Cottage Cheese: Small curd cottage cheese gives the best texture. If you’re not a fan, Greek yogurt or ricotta are good alternatives. Just note they will change the flavor slightly.
Cranberries: Dried cranberries add sweetness. If you prefer less sugar, try raisins or chopped apples for a crunchy bite, or leave them out completely.
Fresh Dill: Dill brings freshness, but if you don’t have it, parsley or chives can also brighten up the salad. Fresh herbs make a big difference!
What’s the Best Way to Combine the Ingredients Well?
Mixing everything for even flavor distribution is key. Follow these steps to keep things together:
- In a big bowl, start with the shredded chicken and cottage cheese. Mix these before adding other ingredients.
- Gently fold in the veggies and cranberries to keep them intact. You want a cohesive mix, not mush!
- If you decide to add mayo or yogurt, do this before seasoning to avoid over-salting.
Chilling the salad is important too! It helps all the flavors meld and taste better. Letting it sit for a bit before serving makes it extra delicious.
Delicious Cottage Cheese Chicken Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
- 1 cup cottage cheese (small curd preferred)
- 2 celery stalks, finely chopped
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 1/3 cup dried cranberries
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: 1 tablespoon mayonnaise or Greek yogurt for extra creaminess
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing Cottage Cheese Chicken Salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare, and you’ll want to chill it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving. So, grab your ingredients and let’s get cooking!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mixing the Base:
Start by taking a large mixing bowl and add the shredded cooked chicken breast along with the cottage cheese. This will form the creamy base of your salad.
2. Adding Flavorful Ingredients:
Next, toss in the finely chopped celery, chopped green onions, dried cranberries, and fresh dill. Sprinkle in the lemon zest for that zesty kick! It’s all about layering the flavors.
3. Combine Gently:
Using a large spoon, stir all the ingredients together gently. You want everything to be well mixed but be careful not to break the chicken too much. If you like it creamier, you can fold in the optional mayonnaise or Greek yogurt at this stage.
4. Season to Taste:
Now, it’s time to season! Add salt and pepper to your taste, giving it a good stir to incorporate the seasoning evenly.
5. Chill for Flavor:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time lets all the flavors marry together perfectly!
6. Garnish and Serve:
Before serving, take it out and garnish with a little extra fresh dill for a pop of color. Now, you can enjoy this salad on its own, over a bed of mixed greens, or as a delicious filling in a sandwich.
Enjoy your fresh, protein-packed Cottage Cheese Chicken Salad! It’s nutritious and oh-so-delicious!
Can I Use Leftover Chicken for This Salad?
Absolutely! Leftover or rotisserie chicken is perfect for this salad. Just shred it up and mix it in. It saves time and adds great flavor!
What Can I Substitute for Dried Cranberries?
If cranberries aren’t your thing, you can use raisins, chopped apples, or even diced pineapples for a sweet touch. Just keep the texture in mind and choose something that complements the other ingredients!
How Long Does This Salad Last in the Fridge?
This salad will keep well in an airtight container in the fridge for about 3 days. Just give it a good stir before serving again, as it may separate a bit while sitting.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to add or substitute with vegetables like bell peppers, cucumbers, or carrots. Just make sure to chop them finely to maintain the right texture and balance in the salad.