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Cottage Cheese Chicken Salad

Bowls of shredded chicken, cottage cheese, and chopped celery on a countertop with lemons and herbs for Cottage Cheese Chicken Salad
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Cottage Cheese Chicken Salad is a nutritious and flavorful twist on the classic chicken salad. By incorporating cottage cheese, this recipe offers a creamy texture with reduced fat content and increased protein, making it a healthier alternative without compromising on taste.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 cup low-fat cottage cheese
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1/2 teaspoon maple syrup
  • 2 tablespoons fresh dill, finely chopped
  • 3 tablespoons scallions, thinly sliced
  • 1 rib celery, finely diced
  • 1/8 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (adjust to taste)
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

Instructions

  • Cook the Chicken:

    • Option 1: Poaching
      Place the chicken breasts in a single layer in a pot. Add enough water to cover the chicken by about an inch. Season with a pinch of salt. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Once simmering, reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for 8-10 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Remove the chicken and let it cool before shredding or chopping.
    • Option 2: Baking
      Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Rub the chicken breasts with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Place them in a baking dish and cover with foil. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Allow the chicken to cool before shredding or chopping.

  • Prepare the Dressing: In a blender or food processor, blend the cottage cheese until smooth and creamy. Transfer to a large bowl and mix in lemon juice, Dijon mustard, maple syrup, fresh dill, scallions, celery, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until well combined.

  • Combine Chicken and Dressing: Add the shredded or chopped chicken to the bowl with the dressing. Stir until the chicken is evenly coated.

  • Adjust Seasoning: Taste the salad and adjust seasoning as needed, adding more salt or pepper to suit your preference.

  • Serve: The salad can be served immediately or refrigerated for an hour to allow the flavors to meld. Serve on whole-grain bread, over a bed of greens, or with whole-grain crackers.

Notes

  • Blending Cottage Cheese: Blending the cottage cheese creates a smoother dressing, but if you prefer a chunkier texture, you can skip this step.

  • Variations: For added sweetness and texture, consider mixing in chopped apples, halved grapes, or dried cranberries. Nuts like chopped walnuts or pecans can also provide a delightful crunch.

  • Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.

Nutrition

Keywords: Cottage Cheese Chicken Salad

Find it online: https://recipes2day.com/cottage-cheese-chicken-salad/