Cottage cheese chicken salad is the easy, creamy, protein-packed twist your lunch routine’s been missing! If you love chicken salad but want something healthier, lower in fat, and loaded with protein, this version checks all the boxes, and then some.
Forget the usual mayo overload. This lightened-up version swaps in cottage cheese for a tangy, smooth base that’s every bit as satisfying (but so much better for you). Tossed with tender shredded chicken, fresh herbs, crunchy celery, and just the right zip of Dijon and lemon, it’s one of those feel-good meals that’s just as perfect for meal prep as it is for a quick lunch.
Stick around, because we’re diving into why this cottage cheese chicken salad belongs in your regular rotation, plus easy swaps, expert tips, and the best ways to serve it up!
Table of content
Table of Contents
Cottage Cheese Chicken Salad
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
This cottage cheese chicken salad is creamy, tangy, and packed with protein — a lightened twist on the classic! Made with shredded chicken, full-fat cottage cheese, fresh dill, and just a touch of mayo, it’s perfect for meal prep, low-carb lunches, or healthy snacking.
Ingredients
1 cup plain full fat cottage cheese
1.25–1.5 lb shredded chicken
½ cup diced red onion
½ cup chopped celery
2 Tablespoons avocado oil mayo
1 ½ Tablespoons lemon juice
1 Tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 Tablespoon fresh dill, chopped (or 1 tsp dried)
½ teaspoon garlic powder
¼ teaspoon fine sea salt, plus more to taste
¼ teaspoon pepper, plus more to taste
Instructions
1. Shred or dice cooked chicken and place it in a large mixing bowl.
2. Add cottage cheese, avocado mayo, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice. Stir to combine.
3. Fold in diced red onion, chopped celery, and fresh or dried dill.
4. Sprinkle in garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve immediately or chill for 30 minutes to let flavors develop.
Notes
Best served chilled, but also great straight from the bowl. Store in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Not suitable for freezing. For extra crunch, top with sliced almonds or crushed cottage cheese chips!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Why You’ll Love This Cottage Cheese Chicken Salad
High-Protein, Easy & Delicious
This cottage cheese chicken salad is a total game-changer when you’re craving something creamy, satisfying, and seriously good for you. With nearly 40 grams of protein per serving, it fuels you through your busiest days without leaving you feeling heavy or sluggish.
Unlike traditional mayo-heavy versions, this one leans on creamy cottage cheese — giving you that rich texture while keeping things light and balanced. You’ll still get that hint of tang from a touch of avocado oil mayo and Dijon mustard, but with a fresh, elevated feel.
Plus, if you’re already a fan of high-protein chicken salad options like our Greek yogurt chicken salad or chicken salad lettuce wraps, this version brings something fresh to your lineup — no compromise on flavor or texture.
Perfect for Meal Prep or Quick Breakfast
This salad is made for busy weekdays. Whether you’re working from home or packing lunches for the office, a bowl of cottage cheese chicken salad in your fridge means you’re just minutes away from a nutritious, filling meal.
Meal prep it on Sunday and enjoy it all week long in sandwiches, lettuce cups, or even scooped over a bed of greens. It keeps beautifully, and the flavors only get better with time.
Looking for something low-effort and versatile? This one hits all the marks. It’s right up there with our healthy tuna egg salad in terms of protein power and prep ease.
Whether you’re aiming for a low-carb chicken salad or just trying to cut down on processed ingredients, this one’s as good for your goals as it is for your tastebuds.
Ingredients & Substitutions for the Best Cottage Cheese Chicken Salad
Let’s break down exactly what you’ll need to make this deliciously creamy and protein-packed salad, plus a few easy swaps in case you’re working with what you’ve got in the fridge.
Key Ingredients for the Best Cottage Cheese Chicken Salad
- Cottage cheese – Full-fat gives you the creamiest result, but you can use low-fat or even whipped cottage cheese for a lighter texture.
- Shredded chicken – Use rotisserie chicken, baked chicken breast, or poached thighs — anything goes! Aim for 1.25 to 1.5 lbs.
- Avocado oil mayo – Just 2 tablespoons for a touch of richness. You can skip it if you’re going for a chicken salad without mayo, but we love the subtle flavor it adds.
- Lemon juice & Dijon mustard – These brighten up the whole dish. Don’t skip them!
- Fresh dill – Adds that fresh, herby bite. Dried works too (just reduce the amount).
- Red onion & celery – For crunch and flavor.
- Simple spices – Garlic powder, sea salt, and pepper round it all out.
This combo makes the base for a lightened chicken salad that’s creamy, tangy, and far from boring.
Easy Ingredient Swaps and Substitutions
Making a healthy chicken salad recipe should never mean running to the store for missing ingredients. Try these smart swaps:
- No fresh dill? Use 1 teaspoon dried, or sub with chopped parsley or green onions.
- Don’t love red onion? Swap in shallots or omit entirely.
- No Dijon? Try stone ground mustard or spicy brown.
- Watching sodium? Choose low-sodium cottage cheese and adjust salt to taste.
- Need dairy-free? Use mashed avocado instead of cottage cheese for a creamy texture.
If you’ve ever tried a protein-packed chicken salad with Greek yogurt, this one’s just as satisfying, and even creamier!
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Plain full-fat cottage cheese | 1 cup |
| Shredded chicken | 1.25–1.5 lbs |
| Diced red onion | ½ cup |
| Chopped celery | ½ cup |
| Avocado oil mayo | 2 Tablespoons |
| Lemon juice | 1½ Tablespoons |
| Dijon mustard | 1 Tablespoon |
| Fresh dill (or 1 tsp dried) | 1 Tablespoon |
| Garlic powder | ½ teaspoon |
| Fine sea salt | ¼ teaspoon, plus more to taste |
| Black pepper | ¼ teaspoon, plus more to taste |
How to Make Cottage Cheese Chicken Salad
This recipe comes together in just minutes, no fancy equipment, no cooking (if you’re using pre-cooked chicken), and no stress. Whether you’re a meal-prep pro or a total kitchen newbie, this cottage cheese chicken salad is as simple as mix, taste, and enjoy.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep your chicken
Shred or dice 1.25–1.5 pounds of cooked chicken. You can use rotisserie, leftover roasted chicken, or poached breasts. Place it in a large mixing bowl.
2. Add your creamy base
Scoop in 1 cup of plain full-fat cottage cheese. Then add 2 tablespoons of avocado oil mayo (if using), 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard, and 1½ tablespoons lemon juice. Stir until creamy and well-combined.
3. Mix in the veggies and herbs
Fold in ½ cup diced red onion, ½ cup chopped celery, and 1 tablespoon fresh dill (or 1 teaspoon dried). Stir until evenly distributed.
4. Season to taste
Sprinkle in ½ teaspoon garlic powder, ¼ teaspoon sea salt, and ¼ teaspoon pepper. Give it a taste and adjust the seasonings to your liking. You can add more lemon juice or dill for extra zing!
5. Chill or serve right away
Serve immediately if you’re hungry, or pop it in the fridge for 30 minutes to let the flavors meld. It’s even better the next day.
This recipe pairs beautifully with light sides like these baked potato and cottage cheese bowls or even a scoop of cottage cheese Caesar dressing drizzled over greens.
Tips for the Best Cottage Cheese Chicken Salad
Want your cottage cheese chicken salad to turn out extra flavorful, creamy, and satisfying? These pro tips will help you avoid common mistakes and take your salad from “pretty good” to can’t stop eating it.
Pro Tips for Perfect Texture & Flavor
- Use full-fat cottage cheese for max creaminess.
While you can use low-fat, full-fat cottage cheese gives this cottage cheese chicken salad its signature rich, satisfying texture — no mayo overload needed. - Let it chill before serving.
Giving your salad 30 minutes in the fridge lets the flavors really soak into the chicken. Trust us — the second-day cottage cheese chicken salad always tastes even better. - Shred your chicken finely.
Finely shredded chicken helps the creamy base cling to every bite. This makes your cottage cheese chicken salad feel way more cohesive and scoopable. - Go heavy on lemon and dill if you love bright flavors.
That tangy zip from lemon juice and the fresh herbiness of dill makes this salad pop. It balances the creamy richness of the cottage cheese perfectly. - Want extra protein?
Stir in some chopped boiled egg whites or even extra cottage cheese. It’ll bulk up the salad and boost your macros without altering the flavor.
What to Avoid for Best Results
- Don’t skip the mustard.
It may seem small, but a tablespoon of Dijon adds complexity. Without it, your cottage cheese chicken salad can fall a little flat. - Avoid watery cottage cheese.
Drain it slightly if it seems runny. Thick cottage cheese is what gives this cottage cheese chicken salad its body and richness, too much moisture and it turns soupy. - No bland chicken!
If your chicken’s underseasoned, your whole salad will taste dull. Use leftover rotisserie or season your chicken before shredding it. - Don’t overdo the salt early on.
Cottage cheese can vary in saltiness depending on the brand. Always taste your cottage cheese chicken salad before adding extra salt.
Whether you’re eating it right from the bowl, loading it into lettuce wraps, or serving it on a slice of low-carb toast, these tips guarantee the best-tasting cottage cheese chicken salad every single time.
Topping Ideas for Cottage Cheese Chicken Salad
The beauty of cottage cheese chicken salad is how easy it is to customize. Whether you’re craving crunch, spice, or something sweet and savory, a few creative toppings can totally transform your bowl.
Here are our favorite toppings that pair perfectly with this creamy, protein-rich salad:
For Crunch
- Sliced cucumbers – Light, crisp, and refreshing
- Chopped almonds or walnuts – Adds texture and healthy fats
- Crushed cottage cheese chips – Try them homemade! Crispy & Crunchy Version
For Freshness
- Extra fresh dill or parsley – Brighten it up with more herbs
- Sliced cherry tomatoes – Juicy and slightly acidic (great with creamy textures)
- Microgreens or arugula – Add a peppery kick
For Flavor Boost
- Pickled red onions – Tangy and beautiful on top
- Everything bagel seasoning – Surprisingly good on cottage cheese chicken salad
- Chili flakes or hot sauce – For a spicy, bold version
For Protein Power
- Chopped boiled egg – A classic protein boost
- More cottage cheese – Yep, double it up! Especially good if you’re serving it over baked potatoes or toast
Want a little variety? Try spooning your cottage cheese chicken salad into lettuce cups and topping each one differently. It’s an easy way to keep things fun and flavor-packed, even during busy weekday lunches.
How to Store and Reheat Cottage Cheese Chicken Salad
The best thing about cottage cheese chicken salad? It’s just as delicious the next day, if not better. In fact, this is one of those recipes that gets creamier and more flavorful as it chills.
Here’s how to store it right and what to know about reheating (spoiler: you probably don’t want to).
How to Store It
- Refrigerator:
Scoop your cottage cheese chicken salad into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. Keep it toward the back of the fridge where the temp stays coldest. - Meal prep tip:
Divide it into single-serve portions with toppings on the side. That way, you can grab and go, just like you would with cottage cheese egg muffins. - Stir before serving:
The dressing may separate slightly over time. Give it a quick mix to bring the creaminess back.
Should You Reheat It?
Short answer: nope , this salad is meant to be served cold or chilled. Heating it could make the cottage cheese separate and turn watery.
Instead, enjoy it:
- Straight from the fridge
- At room temp after a short rest
- Tucked into lettuce wraps or low-carb pancakes
If you’re craving something warm, pair it with a cup of soup or roasted veggies on the side. But the creamy, tangy flavor of cottage cheese chicken salad really shines when served cold.
Other Cottage Cheese Recipes You May Like
If this cottage cheese chicken salad won you over, just wait until you see what else cottage cheese can do. From savory to sweet, it’s the unsung hero of healthy, high-protein cooking, and these reader favorites prove it.
For Quick, Protein-Packed Bakes
Love a good grab-and-go snack? Try these fluffy cottage cheese egg muffins or our deliciously soft blueberry cottage cheese muffins. Both are meal-prep gold and naturally low in sugar.
For Savory, Satisfying Meals
Take your salads to the next level with this cottage cheese Caesar dressing, creamy, tangy, and secretly lightened-up. Or whip up a cottage cheese and spinach crustless quiche for brunch that feels fancy but comes together fast.
For All Things Chicken + Cottage Cheese
Obsessed with the combo? Us too. You’ll love this roundup of cottage cheese chicken recipes, from warm, comforting casseroles to lighter summer-friendly ideas like this one.
For When You Need Dessert (But Still Want Protein)
Trust us on this: our cottage cheese chocolate mousse is rich, creamy, and totally indulgent, with no heavy cream in sight. Prefer fruity? The strawberry cottage cheese ice cream is just as dreamy.
So whether you’re craving sweet, savory, light, or cozy, there’s a cottage cheese recipe waiting to surprise you.
FAQ: Cottage Cheese Chicken Salad Questions Answered
1. Can you use cottage cheese instead of mayonnaise in chicken salad?
Yes, and that’s exactly what makes cottage cheese chicken salad such a smart, high-protein alternative! Cottage cheese adds a creamy texture and tangy flavor while cutting down on fat and calories. For extra richness, a small amount of avocado oil mayo or olive oil can be added.
2. Can you mix chicken and cottage cheese?
Absolutely! Chicken and cottage cheese are a perfect match, especially in recipes like creamy chicken salad with cottage cheese, where the blend adds both protein and flavor. The creamy texture of cottage cheese binds everything together, no mayo needed.
3. Is chicken and cottage cheese good for you?
Yes! This combo is high in protein, low in carbs, and great for muscle recovery or weight-conscious meals. A serving of cottage cheese chicken salad can pack in over 35g of protein with minimal sugar or refined ingredients, ideal for a healthy chicken salad recipe.
4. What is the secret ingredient in chicken salad?
In this version? It’s definitely the cottage cheese. It gives the salad its signature creaminess without relying on heavy mayo. Add a squeeze of lemon juice and fresh dill, and you’ve got a low-fat chicken salad recipe that’s anything but bland.
If you’re looking for a simple, satisfying meal that’s creamy, protein-rich, and made with real ingredients, this cottage cheese chicken salad is the one to bookmark. It’s quick to prep, easy to customize, and perfect for everything from meal-prep lunches to lazy weeknight dinners.
Once you try this lighter take, you might never go back to the mayo-loaded versions again.
Want more easy, high-protein recipes like this?
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