This cottage cheese chicken salad is a healthy, mayo-free twist on the classic – perfect for sandwiches, wraps, or meal prep. It’s light, creamy, and packed with protein!
Looking for a high-protein lunch or an easy meal prep recipe that’s both creamy and light? This Cottage Cheese Chicken Salad Recipe is calling your name! It’s a delicious twist on the classic chicken salad—made with protein-packed cottage cheese instead of mayo, crunchy apples, grapes, and a touch of lemon for that perfect bite.
Whether you’re stuffing it into a sandwich, piling it on crackers, or enjoying it straight from the bowl (no shame in that!), this recipe is here to make your meal times easier and tastier.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ingredients
See recipe card for measurements.
Cooked chicken: I usually make my shredded chicken in the air fryer using this recipe for a lean and juicy option. But feel free to use whatever you have on hand—pre-cooked shredded chicken, rotisserie chicken, grilled chicken, or leftovers all work great. Both shredded and diced chicken are perfect here.
Cottage Cheese, Water, Lemon Juice & Mustard: This combo makes up the creamy, protein-rich dressing. Cottage cheese gives you that smooth texture without the heaviness of mayo. Use whichever kind you like—full fat, reduced fat, or low fat—it all works beautifully.
Celery: For that fresh, crunchy texture.
Scallion: Brings a mild onion flavor without overpowering the salad. You can also use finely chopped red onion if you prefer a bit more punch.
Parsley: I love tossing in fresh herbs for extra flavor. You could also try fresh dill, chives, or cilantro if you want to switch things up.
Apple, Grapes & Almonds: These add a touch of sweetness and crunch that I personally love. But if you’re going for a more traditional chicken salad, feel free to leave them out. Almonds can be replaced with walnuts or pecans.
Visual Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1
Blend cottage cheese, water, lemon juice, and mustard in a blender until smooth. Add all the salad ingredients to a large mixing bowl and drizzle with the blended cottage cheese.
Step 2
Toss well until combined. Season to taste with salt and black pepper. Chill if you like it cold, or eat it right away.
Serving Suggestions
Classic Chicken Salad Sandwich – Pile it between two slices of whole grain bread with some crisp lettuce.
Wraps – Roll it up in a tortilla with lettuce or greens. Wrap it in aluminum foil, and you’ve got the perfect lunch to take on the go.
Lettuce Wraps – A great low-carb alternative! Just spoon the salad into large lettuce leaves and enjoy.
On a Bed of Greens – Serve it over mixed greens or spinach for a fresh, protein-packed salad.
Tips for Success
Make It Your Own: This recipe is super flexible, so don’t be afraid to get creative.
Toast The Almonds: Toast them in a skillet (without oil) over medium heat for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. This brings out their nutty flavor and makes them extra delicious!
No Blender: Swap the cottage cheese for Greek yogurt for a similar high-protein chicken salad.
How Long Does It Keep: Stored in an airtight container in the fridge, this chicken salad will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days. It’s perfect for making ahead and grabbing throughout the week.
More High-Protein Recipes You’ll Love
Did You Make This Recipe?
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📖 Recipe
Cottage Cheese Chicken Salad
This cottage cheese chicken salad is a healthy, mayo-free twist on the classic – perfect for sandwiches, wraps, or meal prep. It’s light, creamy, and packed with protein!
Servings: 4
calories :238kcal
Blend cottage cheese, water, lemon juice, and mustard in a blender until smooth.
Add all the salad ingredients to a large bowl, drizzle with the blended cottage cheese, and toss well. Season to taste with salt and black pepper.
Calories :238kcal
carbohydrates :13g
Protein :29g
fat :8g
fiber :3g
sugar :7g
