High Protein Chicken Salad Recipe

Say hello to your new go-to lunch: my High Protein Chicken Salad Recipe is the ultimate meal-prep hero. Packed with juicy chicken, creamy cottage cheese, and crisp veggies, this salad is cool, crave-worthy, and delivers serious satisfaction in every forkful.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this High Protein Chicken Salad Recipe shines in its own way. It’s all about quality and balance: tender chicken, creamy dressing, and brilliant pops of flavor that make each bite so satisfying!

• Boneless skinless chicken breasts (1.4 lbs) or 1 lb cooked rotisserie chicken: The star protein–you can poach fresh chicken or use rotisserie for delicious convenience.
• Chicken seasoning (2 teaspoons) or salt: Amp up flavor from the inside out as your chicken cooks.
• Mayonnaise (1/2 cup): Adds classic creaminess—use homemade or your favorite store-bought brand.
• Cottage cheese (1 cup): Makes the dressing extra velvety and boosts the protein, promise you’ll love it blended!
• Grapes (65 g, about 24, quartered): Juicy sweetness and beautiful color—choose red or green, whatever’s freshest.
• Celery ribs (2, chopped): Give the salad irresistible crunch and a pop of green.
• Fresh lemon juice (1 tablespoon): Brightens up every spoonful and keeps the flavors lively.
• Dried oregano (2 teaspoons): Infuses the salad with herby depth and almost Mediterranean vibes.
• Garlic powder (1 teaspoon): A mellow garlicky backbone, without sharpness.
• Smoked paprika (1 teaspoon): Adds a whisper of smokiness for restaurant-level depth.
• Onion powder (1/2 teaspoon): Balances everything with gentle sweet savoriness.
• Ground black pepper and salt (to taste): Don’t skip the final seasoning—taste and adjust for your perfect balance.

Variations

The beauty of a High Protein Chicken Salad Recipe is how easy it is to make your own. Depending on what’s in your fridge (or what you love most), this salad happily adapts to your cravings and dietary goals!

• Swap the fruit: Try chopped apple, dried cranberries, or diced pineapple instead of grapes for a tasty twist.
• Go Greek: Replace the cottage cheese and mayo with thick Greek yogurt for a tangy, lower-fat option.
• Add nuts or seeds: Toss in sliced almonds, sunflower seeds, or walnuts for crunch and extra healthy fats.
• Make it spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne or diced jalapeño for a subtle kick.
• Use different herbs: Fresh dill or parsley can replace oregano for a fresh flavor profile.

How to Make High Protein Chicken Salad Recipe

Step 1: Cook and Shred the Chicken

If you’re starting with raw chicken breasts, season them well and boil or pressure cook until fork-tender—this takes about 20 minutes. If you’re using rotisserie chicken, simply remove the meat from the bones. Once cooked, shred the chicken while it’s still warm for the best texture.

Step 2: Blend the Creamy Dressing

While the chicken cools a bit, combine the cottage cheese and mayonnaise in a food processor or blender. This quick blend is the secret to a luscious, creamy dressing with a protein-packed kick that totally elevates the High Protein Chicken Salad Recipe.

Step 3: Mix in the Add-Ins

In a large bowl, toss the shredded chicken with your grape quarters, chopped celery, lemon juice, dried oregano, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and onion powder. This is where the colors and crunch come alive, and you can already smell the fresh, herby aroma.

Step 4: Combine and Season

Pour the creamy cottage cheese-mayo blend over the chicken and veggie mix. Gently fold everything together until evenly coated. Season with additional salt and black pepper, tasting as you go so it’s just right for you!

Step 5: Chill and Serve

For the absolute best flavor, pop the finished salad in the fridge for at least one hour. The flavors meld and the texture gets even dreamier. In a hurry? You can absolutely eat it right away—no judgment!

How to Serve High Protein Chicken Salad Recipe

Garnishes

For a gorgeous finish, I love scattering a few fresh herb leaves—like chopped chives or parsley—right on top. A sprinkle of smoked paprika or a grind of black pepper makes the colors pop, making your High Protein Chicken Salad Recipe look as good as it tastes.

Side Dishes

This chicken salad is hearty and filling on its own, but it’s also amazing with some whole grain crackers, butter lettuce cups, or fresh pita. On warm days, try serving it with sliced cucumbers or juicy tomato wedges for a refreshingly light combo.

Creative Ways to Present

Don’t be shy—pile this creamy salad high on toasted sourdough, stuff it into avocado halves, or spoon it into mini bell pepper boats for an appetizer everyone will rave about. You can also tuck it into wraps or create colorful salad bowls for a trendy lunch spread!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover High Protein Chicken Salad Recipe in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. It stays just as creamy and the flavors continue to develop, making it even better the next day!

Freezing

Freezing isn’t recommended for this recipe because the creamy dressing and fresh veggies can separate or get watery once thawed. For best taste and texture, enjoy it fresh from the fridge rather than the freezer.

Reheating

This one’s meant to be savored cold, straight from the refrigerator! If you prefer it closer to room temperature, simply let it sit out for 10-15 minutes before serving, but skip reheating to preserve the salad’s fabulous crunch.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a new staple that’s nourishing, vibrant, and endlessly satisfying, give this High Protein Chicken Salad Recipe a try! It’s so easy to make, feels special at every meal, and I promise it’ll become your new favorite way to hit your protein goals.

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