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Swap out mayo for protein-packed cottage cheese in this refreshed chicken salad. We've thrown in some tangy banana peppers that really jazz up the flavor - it's a game-changer that'll make your meal prep tastier and healthier.
You'll love how creamy this dish turns out, and it's got way more protein than the original version. All the flavors mix and mingle, getting even better after sitting in the fridge overnight.
Essential Components
- Shredded Rotisserie Chicken: The main protein component
- Cottage Cheese: Makes everything smooth and creamy
- Banana Peppers: Gives that zingy kick
- Diced Celery: Adds that necessary crunch
- Red Onion: Brings a bit of bite
- Dijon Mustard: Pulls the dressing together
- Sliced Green Onions: Tops it off with freshness
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Cooking Steps
- Prepare the Base
- Blend the cottage cheese till it's silky smooth. Mix in the mustard and seasonings while blending so everything's evenly mixed.
- Prep Vegetables
- Cut your celery, onions, and peppers into same-sized pieces. This way, you'll get balanced flavor in every bite.
- Prepare Chicken
- Take off the skin and bones, then pull the chicken into small bits. Mix it well with your cottage cheese blend.
- Complete Assembly
- Gently mix your veggies into the chicken mixture. Let it chill in the fridge so the flavors can get friendly with each other.
This protein-heavy twist turns an old favorite into something that's good for you without losing any of the yumminess. The cottage cheese doesn't just make it creamy - it pumps up the protein too.
Prep-Ahead Tricks
Make a big batch on Sunday for the whole week. Split it into small containers so you can grab and go. It'll actually taste better after a day or two in the fridge.
Ways to Enjoy
- Pile it on some leafy greens for a simple lunch
- Stuff it in whole grain wraps
- Scoop it into bell peppers or tomatoes
- Eat it with some cut-up fruit or veggies
Keeping It Fresh
Pop it in airtight containers and it'll stay good in your fridge for three days. Give it a stir before eating to mix everything back up. The cottage cheese helps it stay nice and moist.
Dish Overview
This protein-boosted chicken salad shows how swapping just one ingredient can make a dish way healthier and tastier too. The mix of tender chicken, velvety cottage cheese, and crunchy veggies makes for a filling meal that's perfect if you're watching what you eat.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- → What's the deal with blending cottage cheese?
- It makes it smooth and creamy, more like mayo, so it mixes better.
- → Can grilled chicken work in this?
- Sure can! Any cooked chicken, like grilled or baked, is great.
- → How long does this stay fresh?
- Pop it in the fridge in an airtight container for up to three days.
- → Do I have to use banana peppers?
- Nope! Add them for flavor or skip them if you prefer.
- → Can I eat this on keto?
- Absolutely! It's low in net carbs, perfect for keto plans.