High Protein Chicken Salad
High in protein and bursting with flavor, this High Protein Chicken Salad is your new go-to meal! Whether you’re whipping it up for a light lunch, prepping for a weeknight dinner, or packing it for a picnic, this salad is both satisfying and nutritious. The creamy cottage cheese nicely complements the tender chicken, while the crunch of celery adds delightful texture. Plus, it’s super easy to make—perfect for busy days when you want something healthy without spending hours in the kitchen.
What makes this recipe special
Why should you try this High Protein Chicken Salad? It’s not just delicious; it’s also incredibly versatile. Packed with protein from the cooked chicken and cottage cheese, this dish is a fantastic post-workout meal or a quick lunch that keeps you full for hours. And let’s not forget how easy it is on the wallet—perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prepping for the week ahead!
“This chicken salad is a game changer! So creamy and satisfying, I couldn’t believe it was this healthy.” – Sarah D.
Preparing High Protein Chicken Salad
Ready to put this salad together? Here’s a quick overview of how this recipe unfolds. First, you’ll combine all the main ingredients in a bowl, then add your creamy dressing, and finally, season to taste. It’s a straightforward process that takes just a few minutes, making it ideal for anyone who loves simple yet satisfying meals!
What you’ll need
Gather these ingredients for your High Protein Chicken Salad:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 1/2 cup diced celery
- 1/2 cup grapes, halved (optional)
- 1/4 cup diced red onion
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lettuce leaves for serving
Feel free to substitute the grapes with diced apples or omit them altogether if you prefer—a great way to tailor the dish to your taste!
Step-by-step instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cottage cheese, diced celery, grapes (if using), and red onion.
- Add the Dijon mustard and mix well until all ingredients are integrated.
- Season with salt and pepper according to your preference.
- Serve the chicken salad on crisp lettuce leaves or as desired.
Best ways to enjoy it
Now that you’ve made your delicious High Protein Chicken Salad, how do you serve it? This dish shines when served on a bed of fresh lettuce leaves—think crunchy romaine or buttery bibb lettuce. For a heartier option, try it in a whole-grain wrap or sandwich. You could also pair it with whole grain crackers for a delightful crunch!
Storage and reheating tips
Got leftovers? No problem! This chicken salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. However, if you make a larger batch, it’s best to consume it fresh to maintain the texture of the ingredients. If you’d like to freeze it, consider omitting the cottage cheese until you’re ready to eat it. Just thaw in the fridge overnight and add the cottage cheese before serving.
Helpful cooking tips
Here are a few extra tips to elevate your salad-making game:
- For added flavor, consider including herbs like dill or parsley in your chicken salad.
- If you want an extra crunch, toss in some chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts.
- A squeeze of lemon juice can brighten up the flavors beautifully and add a touch of zest.
Creative twists
Feel like getting adventurous? You can easily customize this High Protein Chicken Salad with various flavors:
- Substitute Greek yogurt for cottage cheese for a tangy twist.
- Add avocado for a creamy texture without extra dairy.
- Spice it up with a bit of hot sauce or sprinkle in some cayenne pepper for heat.
Your questions answered
How long does it take to prepare?
This recipe takes about 10-15 minutes from start to finish, making it a quick dish for any occasion!
Can I use leftover chicken?
Absolutely! This is a fantastic way to use up leftovers from a roast chicken or any cooked chicken you have on hand.
How should I store it if I want to make it ahead of time?
Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just remember that the longer it sits, the more the ingredients might soften, especially the celery.
Enjoy this High Protein Chicken Salad as a nutritious option that fits seamlessly into any meal plan! Whether it’s for lunch, dinner, or a snack, you can’t go wrong with this delightful recipe.
High Protein Chicken Salad
Ingredients
Method
- In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cottage cheese, diced celery, grapes (if using), and red onion.
- Add the Dijon mustard and mix well until all ingredients are integrated.
- Season with salt and pepper according to your preference.
- Serve the chicken salad on crisp lettuce leaves or as desired.
