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Switch up your regular chicken salad by swapping mayo for protein-packed cottage cheese. This fresh take adds tangy banana peppers, creating a flavor combo that's both super tasty and good for you—perfect for planning meals ahead.
You'll love how this version feels rich and creamy while giving you extra protein. All the ingredients work together to create flavors that actually get better the longer they sit.
Essential Ingredients
- Shredded Rotisserie Chicken: Makes up the main protein
- Cottage Cheese: Works as the creamy base
- Banana Peppers: Gives a zingy kick
- Diced Celery: Adds nice crunch
- Red Onion: Brings bold flavor
- Dijon Mustard: Ties the dressing together
- Sliced Green Onions: Tops it off with freshness
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Cooking Steps
- Mix Your Base
- Blend cottage cheese until it's smooth as silk. Mix in mustard and spices while blending so everything gets evenly mixed.
- Chop Your Veggies
- Cut celery, onions, and peppers into same-sized pieces. This makes sure every bite has balanced flavor.
- Get Chicken Ready
- Take off skin and bones, then pull chicken into small pieces. Mix it well with your cottage cheese mixture.
- Put It All Together
- Gently stir veggies into your chicken mix. Let it chill in the fridge so the flavors can mingle before eating.
This protein-rich twist turns comfort food into something actually good for you without losing any flavor. The cottage cheese doesn't just make it creamy—it adds tons of protein too.
Prep-Ahead Advice
Make a big batch for easy meals all week. Split it into small containers so you can grab and go. The longer it sits, the better it tastes anyway.
Ways To Enjoy
- Pile it on fresh lettuce for a light meal
- Stuff it in whole grain wraps
- Scoop into bell peppers or tomatoes
- Eat with fresh fruit or veggie sticks
Keeping It Fresh
Pop it in airtight containers and it'll stay good in the fridge for three days. Just stir before eating to mix everything back up. The cottage cheese helps keep it from drying out.
Dish Overview
This protein-boosted chicken salad shows how smart swaps can make food healthier and tastier at the same time. The mix of tender chicken, smooth cottage cheese, and crunchy veggies creates a filling meal that's perfect when you want something healthy but satisfying.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- → What’s the benefit of blending cottage cheese?
- Blending makes it smooth and creamy, replacing mayo while staying light.
- → Can I substitute rotisserie chicken?
- Absolutely! Grilled, baked, or any cooked chicken will be fine.
- → How long does it last in the fridge?
- Keep it chilled in an airtight container for up to three days.
- → Can I skip the banana peppers?
- Totally! They add zing, but the salad tastes great without them too.
- → Is this dish keto-friendly?
- Yep! It's low in carbs with around 5g net carbs per serving.