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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 for a flavor combo that'll make your meal prep tastier and healthier at the same time.
You'll love the rich, velvety texture and extra protein this version packs. All the ingredients work together to create deep flavors that actually get better the longer they sit.
Essential Components
- Shredded Rotisserie Chicken: Gives you the main protein kick
- Cottage Cheese: Makes everything creamy and smooth
- Banana Peppers: Brings a zesty punch
- Diced Celery: Adds that necessary crunch
- Red Onion: Delivers bold flavor hits
- Dijon Mustard: Helps everything stick together with flavor
- Sliced Green Onions: Tops it off with freshness
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Cooking Steps
- Prepare the Base
- Blend cottage cheese until it's silky smooth. Mix in mustard and seasonings while blending so everything gets evenly mixed.
- Prep Vegetables
- Cut celery, onions, and peppers into even pieces. This way every bite has a good mix of flavors.
- Prepare Chicken
- Take off the skin and bones, then pull chicken into small pieces. Mix thoroughly with your cottage cheese blend.
- Complete Assembly
- Gently mix vegetables into your chicken mixture. Let it chill in the fridge so the flavors can mingle before eating.
This protein-loaded dish turns an old favorite into something that's good for you without losing any of the taste. The cottage cheese doesn't just make it creamy, it also packs in extra protein.
Prep-Ahead Suggestions
Make a double batch for easy meals throughout the week. Dish it into small containers so you can grab and go. The taste actually gets better after sitting in the fridge.
Ways to Enjoy
- Pile it on some crisp lettuce for a light meal
- Stuff it in whole grain bread or wraps
- Scoop into bell peppers or tomatoes
- Eat alongside some fresh fruit or raw veggies
Keeping It Fresh
Pop it in airtight containers and it'll stay good in the fridge for three days. Give it a mix before eating to blend everything back together. The cottage cheese helps it stay moist and fresh.
Dish Overview
This souped-up chicken salad shows how smart ingredient swaps can make food healthier and tastier. The mix of tender chicken, smooth cottage cheese, and crunchy veggies creates a filling meal that health-minded eaters will love.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- → What's the purpose of blending cottage cheese?
- It creates a smooth, creamy base that's similar to mayo but lighter.
- → Can I swap rotisserie chicken with another kind?
- For sure! Grilled, baked, or even boiled chicken works great too.
- → How long does this stay fresh?
- Pop it in an airtight container, and it'll keep for three days in the fridge.
- → Do I have to add banana peppers?
- Nope! They're for flavor, so skip them if you prefer.
- → Does it work for keto diets?
- Absolutely! It's only about 5g net carbs per serving, so it's keto-friendly.