High Protein Chicken Salad

Flavor Explosion in a Bowl

Ever bitten into a chicken salad that practically sings with freshness and health? This High Protein Chicken Salad isn’t just any salad; it’s a quick, creamy delight packed with protein that’ll leave you wanting more! Perfect for lunch or a light dinner, this recipe checks all the boxes — it’s easy, delicious, and doesn’t require a degree in gourmet cooking. Let’s dive into this deliciousness!

Why Make This Recipe

You’ll love this salad for a few great reasons:

• Super Simple: Just toss everything in one bowl and you’re golden! Who doesn’t love easy cleanup after a meal?
• Healthy and Filling: With its protein-packed ingredients, it’ll keep you satisfied without the post-lunch slump. Wave goodbye to those mid-afternoon snack cravings!
• Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters will appreciate the creamy texture mixed with a hint of sweetness. You might even win over the kids — can you say “victory”?

Ingredients

You don’t need fancy stuff — just these basics!

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
• 1 cup cottage cheese
• 1/2 cup grapes, halved (optional)
• 1/4 cup celery, chopped
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Lettuce leaves for serving (optional)

Directions

Ready to whip this up? Let’s go!

1. In a large bowl, mix the shredded chicken, cottage cheese, celery, red onion, and optional grapes.
2. Add the Dijon mustard and give it a good mix.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve on lettuce leaves or even as a sandwich filling, if you’re feeling extra.
5. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for easy meal prep.

How to Make High Protein Chicken Salad (Overview)

Making this salad is as simple as 1-2-3. Start by tossing your cooked chicken and cottage cheese together in a big bowl. Then, get those crunchy veggies in there. You want the celery and the red onion to give a nice bite to the dish! Stir in the mustard for that creamy kick. Pro tip: Taste as you go! You can always adjust the seasoning to your liking.

How to Serve High Protein Chicken Salad

When it comes to serving this beautiful salad, the options are endless!

• On a bed of lettuce: Picture vibrant green leaves topped with a creamy chicken mix that’s a masterpiece for your eyes (and taste buds!).
• In a sandwich: The crunch of the bread coupled with the creamy salad makes for a delightful lunch experience.
• Add a sprinkle of nuts for that extra crunch or serve it alongside some crispy crackers. Just imagine that first bite — the crunch, the creaminess, the flavor explosion!

How to Store High Protein Chicken Salad

This salad keeps for up to 3-4 days in the fridge. It’s perfect for meal prep! Just store it in an airtight container and you’re golden. Thinking about a make-ahead? Go for it! You might want to add the lettuce just before serving to keep it crisp.

Tips to Make High Protein Chicken Salad

• Shredded chicken: Choose a rotisserie chicken for an even simpler option!
• Cottage cheese: Don’t worry if you’re not a fan; Greek yogurt is a great swap and still packs a protein punch.
• Mix it up: Add in whatever veggies you have on hand — bell peppers, carrots, or even a handful of nuts for crunch!
• Flavor boost: A squeeze of lemon can brighten up the flavors! 🍋

Variation

Keep it fresh by switching up the flavors. Want to make it vegan? Swap the chicken for chickpeas and the cottage cheese for a creamy cashew spread. Craving something spicy? Toss in some jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for a kick. With this recipe, you can easily mold it to whatever your taste buds fancy!

FAQs

Can I use canned chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! It’s a great time-saver and still delicious. Just make sure to drain it well.

How can I make this in advance?
You can prepare it up to two days ahead without any issues! Just store it in the fridge.

Can I freeze leftovers?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze it for up to a month — just be mindful that the texture might change slightly upon thawing.

Is this gluten-free?
Yes, all the ingredients are naturally gluten-free! Just double-check your mustard for any hidden gluten.

What else can I serve it with?
Enjoy it with some whole grain crackers, or toss it on top of a mixed greens salad for a hearty meal!

📌 Pin this recipe for your next cozy dinner night!

High Protein Chicken Salad

A quick, creamy chicken salad packed with protein, perfect for lunch or a light dinner.

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 10 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner, Lunch

Cuisine: American

Calories: 350

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded Use rotisserie chicken for convenience.
• 1 cup cottage cheese Greek yogurt can be used as a substitute.
• 1/2 cup grapes, halved Optional, for sweetness.
• 1/4 cup celery, chopped Adds crunch.
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped For flavor.
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard Gives the salad a creamy tang.
• to taste salt and pepper Season to preference.
• Lettuce leaves for serving Optional, for a bed under the salad.

Method

 

Preparation

1. In a large bowl, mix the shredded chicken, cottage cheese, celery, red onion, and optional grapes.
2. Add the Dijon mustard and give it a good mix.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve on lettuce leaves or as a sandwich filling.

Notes

This salad keeps for up to 3-4 days in the fridge. Store in an airtight container. Add lettuce just before serving for freshness.