This Cottage Cheese Chicken Salad is a creamy and tasty dish, perfect for a light lunch or snack. It mixes juicy chicken, smooth cottage cheese, and fresh veggies for a delightful crunch!
I love how easy this salad is to whip up. Just throw everything together in a bowl, and you’re set! Perfect for those busy days when you still want something delicious and healthy.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Chicken: Shredded chicken breast adds protein and makes the salad hearty. You can use leftover rotisserie chicken or even canned chicken if you’re in a hurry.
Cottage Cheese: Small curd cottage cheese is my go-to for a creamier texture. If you prefer a dairy-free option, try using a plant-based yogurt or vegan cottage cheese.
Celery: This ingredient brings a nice crunch. If you don’t have celery, diced bell peppers or sliced cucumbers work well as a substitute.
Red Onion: It gives a lovely sharpness. However, if you find red onion too strong, you can swap it for green onions or chives for a milder taste.
Mandarin Oranges: These are totally optional, but they add a pop of sweetness. You could replace them with grapes or apples for a different twist.
How Do You Mix Everything Without Making a Mess?
When combining the ingredients for this salad, a gentle hand is key. You want everything mixed well but intact. Here are some tips:
- Start with the cottage cheese and chicken in a large bowl.
- Use a spatula to fold in the other ingredients gently, rather than stirring vigorously. This keeps the chicken and oranges from breaking apart.
- Mix until just combined. Overmixing can make it watery.
Following these steps will help you create a well-textured salad that looks just as good as it tastes!
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, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 cup mandarin orange segments (optional, for sweetness and color)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tsp lemon juice (optional, for brightness)
- Fresh dill or additional parsley for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Cottage Cheese Chicken Salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare. It’s a quick and easy recipe, perfect for making on a busy day. Just mix everything together, and you’re ready to enjoy a healthy meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Base Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, start by adding the shredded cooked chicken and cottage cheese. These are your main ingredients that will give your salad that creamy base.
2. Add Fresh Veggies:
Next, add in the finely chopped celery, red onion, and chopped fresh parsley. These veggies will add crunch and flavor to your salad. Mix gently until everything is combined.
3. Fold in the Mandarins:
If you’re using them, carefully fold in the mandarin orange segments. Be gentle so you don’t break them apart and lose their juiciness!
4. Season to Taste:
Now it’s time to season your salad! Add salt and pepper to your liking. If you like a little extra zing, drizzle in the lemon juice for some brightness.
5. Mix It All Together:
Stir all the ingredients together until everything is well combined. Make sure to be gentle so the chicken and oranges stay intact.
6. Serve and Garnish:
Transfer the salad to a serving bowl and sprinkle some additional parsley or fresh dill on top for a nice garnish. You can serve it right away or chill it in the fridge for a bit; it’s delicious either way!
Enjoy this creamy salad that provides a perfect mix of flavors and textures! It’s light yet satisfying—great for lunch or a light dinner. Bon appétit!
Can I Use Rotisserie Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken is a fantastic time-saver. Just shred the chicken from the rotisserie and add it directly to the salad. It adds great flavor too!
Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
Yes! To make it vegan, substitute the chicken with chickpeas or tofu and use a dairy-free cottage cheese alternative. You can also add some avocado for creaminess!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just give it a gentle stir before serving, as the ingredients may settle.
What Can I Serve with This Salad?
This salad is delicious on its own, but you can also serve it on a bed of greens, in a wrap, or alongside crackers for a crunchy contrast. It pairs well with a light vinaigrette too!