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Switch up your chicken salad game by swapping out mayo for protein-packed cottage cheese. This fresh take features tangy banana peppers, creating an amazing flavor combo that's both healthy and tasty for your weekly meal planning.
You'll love the rich, velvety texture and extra protein in this upgraded version. All the ingredients work together to create deep flavors that actually get better the longer they sit.
Essential Components
- Shredded Rotisserie Chicken: Serves as the main protein
- Cottage Cheese: Delivers the creamy texture
- Banana Peppers: Gives a zesty kick
- Diced Celery: Adds necessary crunch
- Red Onion: Brings punchy flavor
- Dijon Mustard: Helps everything stick together
- Sliced Green Onions: Tops it off with freshness
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Cooking Steps
- Mix Your Base
- Blend cottage cheese until it's silky smooth. Mix in mustard and spices while blending so everything gets evenly mixed.
- Chop Your Veggies
- Cut celery, onions, and peppers into similar-sized pieces. This makes sure you get balanced flavor in every bite.
- Get Chicken Ready
- Take off skin and bones, then pull chicken into small chunks. Mix thoroughly with your cottage cheese blend.
- 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 an old favorite into something way healthier without losing any flavor. The cottage cheese works as a creamy foundation while adding lots of good protein.
Planning Ahead
Make a big batch for easy meals throughout the week. Split it into smaller containers so you can grab and go. The taste actually gets even better after sitting in the fridge.
Ways to Enjoy
- Pile it on a bed of greens for a simple lunch
- Stuff it in whole grain tortillas
- Scoop into bell peppers or tomatoes
- Enjoy with some cut-up fruit or veggies
Keeping It Fresh
Keep in airtight containers in your fridge for up to three days. Give it a mix before eating to blend everything back together. The cottage cheese helps keep it moist and fresh.
Dish Overview
This protein-loaded chicken salad shows how smart ingredient swaps can boost both nutrition and taste. The mix of tender chicken, smooth cottage cheese, and crispy vegetables creates a filling meal that's perfect for anyone watching what they eat.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- → What's the point of blending the cottage cheese?
- Blending transforms it into a smooth, creamy sauce that works like mayo but tastes fresher.
- → Will this work with other chicken types?
- Absolutely! Try it with baked, grilled or even poached chicken for the same great results.
- → How long does this stay good for?
- Keep it in an airtight container in your fridge and eat within three days.
- → Do I have to use banana peppers?
- Not at all! They add a nice zing, but you can skip them if you don't like them.
- → Can I eat this on a keto diet?
- You bet! With around 5g net carbs per serving, it's a perfect keto-friendly option.