What makes this high protein chicken salad so unique?

This Seriously Genius High Protein Cottage Cheese Chicken Salad combines lean chicken breast with creamy cottage cheese, boosting its protein content significantly. Unlike traditional chicken salads loaded with mayonnaise, this recipe offers a macro friendly chicken salad option that fits perfectly into a high protein salad recipes plan. It's also great for those looking for a satisfying, low carb lunch or protein-packed meal prep idea.

Can I use this chicken salad for meal prep?

Absolutely! This high protein chicken salad is an excellent choice for chicken salad meal prep because it stores well in the fridge for 3-4 days. Its protein-packed salads ingredients like cottage cheese keep it fresh and creamy without the need for excessive dressings, making it ideal for high protein lunches for work or quick grab-and-go meals.

Is this recipe suitable for low carb diets?

Yes, this high protein cottage cheese chicken salad fits well into high protein salads low carb plans. The recipe avoids carb-heavy ingredients, focusing instead on protein-rich foods like chicken and cottage cheese. It makes a perfect protein salad idea for those watching their carb intake but wanting something satisfying and nutrient-dense.

What is the best dressing for this high protein chicken salad?

Since cottage cheese already adds creaminess, you can keep the dressing simple with a high protein salad dressing like a light Greek yogurt-based sauce or a drizzle of olive oil with lemon juice. This keeps the salad macro friendly and complements the flavors without overpowering the protein-packed salads ingredients.

Can I substitute cottage cheese with other ingredients?

While cottage cheese is key for its unique texture and protein boost in this recipe, you can substitute it with Greek yogurt or ricotta if you prefer. These alternatives still support the high protein salad recipes goal but might slightly change the flavor and consistency of the salad.

High Protein Chicken Salad: Easy and Delicious Recipe

Name: High Protein Chicken Salad: Easy and Delicious Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 1.4 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts - or 1lb cooked rotisserie chicken; 2 teaspoons chicken seasoning - or salt; 1/2 cup mayonnaise - plus more to taste (store-bought or homemade); 1 cup cottage cheese; 65 g grapes - quartered (24 grapes, any color); 2 celery ribs - chopped; 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice - plus more to taste; 2 teaspoons dried oregano; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; ground black pepper - to taste; salt - to taste

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There’s something about a bowl of chilled chicken salad that takes me straight back to Sunday potlucksplastic wrap peeled off grandma’s vintage glass bowl, the smell of dill and mayo in the air. This High Protein Chicken Salad has been trending lately (thank you, Pinterest boards and TikTok meal-preppers!). But don’t worrythis is one of those feel-good, easy recipes you can put together in no time. Perfect for beginners or anyone with a leftover rotisserie chicken and a fork handy.

Contents show

This one’s creamy but not too heavy, with crisp celery crunch, juicy grapes, tender chicken breast, and a protein-packed Greek yogurt and cottage cheese base for balance. A handful of pantry staples, your favorite mustard, and fresh herbs bring it to life. Think deli-counter goodness, but lighter, fresher, and made with heart. Full ingredient details and tips below.

I remember sitting around the table with my grandma and cousins, shredding chicken by hand on Sundays. I crafted this upgraded version with that memory in mindit holds onto the classic flavor but adds a smart, modern twist with sneaky protein boosts. After a couple of test runs to get everything just right, I think you’ll really love the secret!

Why You’ll Love This High Protein Chicken Salad

This chicken salad isn’t just another lunchit’s loaded with lean protein (around 40 grams per serving!) and brings deli-style vibes with every bite. Whether you’re meal prepping or need a quick, satisfying bite, this balanced recipe is versatile and fresh with creamy dressing and bursts of crunch and sweetness.

Beginner-friendly: No complicated steps or fancy gadgets required.
Meal prep magic: Keeps well in the fridge so you can enjoy all week.
Customizable: Season and mix-in friendlymake it your own!

Key Ingredients and Simple Prep Tools

This recipe relies on budget-friendly staples you likely already have. Even better? You only need a cutting board, knife, spoon, and large mixing bowl. Cleanup is a breeze!

High protein chicken salad ingredients: Greek yogurt, grapes, celery, chicken breast, cottage cheese neatly laid out

Ingredient	Why It’s Essential
Cooked chicken (1.4 lbs or one rotisserie)	The core protein source; use seasoned, diced or shredded chicken breast.
Cottage cheese (1 cup) + Mayonnaise (1/2 cup)	Powerful protein base with creamy texture. Greek yogurt also works great here.
Grapes (65g) + Celery (2 ribs)	Brings crunch and subtle sweetnessclassic chicken salad textures.
Lemon juice (1 tablespoon)	Adds brightness and balances creamy elements.
Herbs & spices	Use oregano, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder for bold flavor.

Pro Tip: A store-bought rotisserie chicken delivers flavor and saves serious prep timejust remove the skin and bones before dicing.

How to Make High Protein Chicken Salad (Step-by-Step)

This quick-prep dish comes together in just about 25 minutes. Here’s how to mix up a batch:

Cook your chicken: Not using rotisserie? Bake or poach two medium chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and paprika at 375°F for about 20 minutes, or until internal temp reaches 165°F. Let it rest before dicing or shredding.
Prep your mix-ins: Dice celery and halve or quarter grapes to ensure even bites and texture balance.
Make the dressing: Stir together cottage cheese, mayo, lemon juice, oregano, paprika, and onion and garlic powder in a mixing bowl until smooth and well combined.
Combine: Add chicken, grapes, and celery to the dressing. Gently toss or fold until completely coated.
Taste and adjust: Add additional salt, pepper, or lemon juice to get the flavor just right for your taste.

Customizations and Ingredient Swaps

This protein-packed salad is incredibly flexible. Here are some great substitution ideas based on what you have on hand or dietary preferences:

Ingredient	Swap/Option
Chicken breast	Try shredded turkey, leftover grilled thighs, or even canned chicken in a pinch.
Mayonnaise	Use Greek yogurt or mashed avocado for a healthier twist with extra creaminess.
Grapes	Sub with tart apples, dried cranberries, or finely chopped pears.
Oregano & paprika	Mix in dill, parsley, or even rosemary for a refreshing herb note.

Note: Just be sure to taste as you tweakbalance is everything.

Serving and Storing Your Chicken Salad

There are so many ways to enjoy this chicken salad, and it fits well into any meal or setting:

Lunch/snack: Spoon onto crackers, wrap in lettuce leaves or pita, or load into a sandwich.
Picnic-ready: Cool in portable containers and serve alongside fruits and olives.
Protein-rich dinner: Plate with a side of grains and greens for a complete meal.

Here’s how to keep leftovers fresh:

Storage Tip	Details
Refrigerator	Place in an airtight container and store up to 4 days. Stir before each serving for best flavor mixing.
Freezer	Freezing not recommendedthe texture of dairy changes and can become grainy when thawed.

Pro Tip: Chill the finished salad for at least 30 minutes before eating to help the flavors fully develop and mesh together.

Expert Insight: The Power of a High Protein Chicken Salad

Chicken salad is more than just tastyit can help you hit your protein goals and feel satisfied longer. Using lean meats and high-protein dairy like Greek yogurt and cottage cheese keeps your blood sugar steady and energizes your day. This version is meal-prep friendly, nutrient-dense, and a smart choice for anyone seeking balance and flavor at once.

For more delicious recipes and cooking inspiration, follow me on Facebook, Pinterest and Reddit!

The Journey to My Perfect High Protein Chicken Salad

This high protein chicken salad wasn’t born in one gothere were dry, under-seasoned trials and some odd flavor attempts along the way. But through testing and learning what works (and doesn’t), I found the right mix of creamy, crunchy, savory, and sweet. Now this easy salad is my go-to for fuss-free lunches and potluck-worthy fare.

FAQs ( Seriously Genius High Protein Cottage Cheese Chicken Salad – High Protein Recipes. )

Creamy high protein chicken salad garnished with herbs, ready for potluck or meal prep

Conclusion

This High Protein Chicken Salad is speedy, flavorful, and the kind of recipe that improves with time. Creamy yet light, it strikes the perfect balance of savory, sweet, and crunchbringing you all the comfort of a traditional chicken salad, with a health-conscious twist.

Try your own twist with add-ins like chopped apples or a sprinkle of sunflower seeds. Store any leftovers in an airtight container and give it a gentle stir before serving for peak flavor. And remember: chilling at least 30 minutes = flavor payoff!

When you give it a try, tag me or shareI’d love to see how you made it yours. Whether it sparks a food memory or creates a new favorite, this one brings folks together. Cozy, nourishing, and made with care.

HIGH PROTEIN CHICKEN SALAD centered hero view, clean and uncluttered

Thomas Baker

High Protein Chicken Salad: Easy and Delicious Recipe

This High Protein Chicken Salad is a delicious and nutritious choice perfect for Chicken Salad Meal Prep and Protein Salad Recipes. Loaded with crunchy celery, sweet grapes, and a creamy blend of cottage cheese and mayo, it’s a satisfying option for those seeking High Protein Salads Low Carb meals.

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Prep Time 5

Cook Time 20

Total Time 25

Servings: 4 servings

Calories: 443

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

1.4 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts – or 1lb cooked rotisserie chicken
2 teaspoons chicken seasoning – or salt
1/2 cup mayonnaise – plus more to taste (store-bought or homemade)
1 cup cottage cheese
65 g grapes – quartered (24 grapes, any color)
2 celery ribs – chopped
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice – plus more to taste
2 teaspoons dried oregano
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
ground black pepper – to taste
salt – to taste

Method

Cook chicken breasts seasoned with chicken seasoning or salt until fully cooked and let cool.
Chop the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces or shred if using rotisserie chicken.
In a large bowl, combine mayonnaise, cottage cheese, lemon juice, dried oregano, garlic powder, smoked paprika, onion powder, black pepper, and salt.
Add chopped celery and quartered grapes to the dressing mixture.
Fold in the chopped chicken gently until well coated.
Taste and adjust seasoning or mayonnaise to your preference.
Serve chilled on its own, in a wrap, or with crackers and fresh fruit.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Notes

For a lower fat version, substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or use only cottage cheese. This salad is perfect for meal prep and keeps well when refrigerated.