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High-Protein, No-Mayo Cottage Cheese Chicken Salad for Quick Lunches

A mound of creamy cottage cheese chicken salad mixed with chopped celery and red onion served on a white plate.

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This recipe delivers a creamy, high-protein chicken salad using cottage cheese instead of mayonnaise. It is quick to assemble, perfect for meal prepping, and versatile enough for sandwiches, wraps, or lettuce cups.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken breast
  • 1 cup low-fat cottage cheese
  • 1/2 cup celery, finely diced
  • 1/4 cup red onion, finely minced
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • Pinch of salt
  • Optional additions: 1/4 cup chopped grapes or 2 tablespoons sliced banana peppers

Instructions

  1. Place the cooked, shredded chicken into a medium mixing bowl.
  2. Add the cottage cheese, diced celery, minced red onion, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, pepper, and salt to the bowl.
  3. If using, mix in the optional grapes or banana peppers now.
  4. Use a fork or a hand mixer on low speed to gently combine all ingredients until the mixture is creamy but still has texture from the chicken and vegetables. Do not overmix.
  5. Taste the salad and adjust seasoning if needed.
  6. Cover the bowl and chill in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes to allow flavors to meld, especially if you are meal prepping.
  7. Serve your high protein chicken salad immediately over lettuce greens, in a sandwich, or inside a low-carb wrap.

Notes

  • For an even creamier texture, briefly blend the cottage cheese in a food processor before mixing it with the other ingredients.
  • This recipe is excellent for gluten free chicken salad lunch options when served on lettuce wraps or with gluten free crackers.
  • If you prefer a tangier flavor, add 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice along with the vinegar.
  • This makes a fantastic protein packed lunch idea that holds well for 3-4 days in the refrigerator for easy meal prep.

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