If you’re on the hunt for a dish that’s both nourishing and bursting with flavor, this High Protein Chicken Salad Recipe is about to become your new best friend. It’s packed with wholesome ingredients that deliver a satisfying boost of protein, combined with a delightful mix of textures from creamy cottage cheese to crisp celery and sweet bursts of grape. Perfect for a quick lunch, a nutritious dinner, or even a make-ahead meal, this recipe strikes the ideal balance between comfort and health, making every bite a joyful experience.
Ingredients You’ll Need
When it comes to crafting this High Protein Chicken Salad Recipe, the ingredients are simple yet absolutely essential. Each one brings something unique to the table, from the juicy, tender chicken breasts that provide the protein backbone to the fresh grapes adding a touch of sweetness and the herbs and spices infusing vibrant flavors.
- 1.4 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts: The star protein that’s tender and shreddable, perfect for salads.
- 2 teaspoons chicken seasoning: Enhances the chicken with savory depth, but feel free to add salt instead for simplicity.
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise: Adds a rich, creamy texture that binds everything together luxuriously.
- 1 cup cottage cheese: Boosts protein and creaminess while keeping things light and fresh.
- 65 g grapes, quartered: A sweet pop that balances the creamy and savory elements.
- 2 celery ribs, chopped: Provides a crisp crunch and subtle freshness.
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice: Injects a bright, zesty note that keeps this salad lively.
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano: Brings herby warmth that complements the savory spices.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: A punch of earthy, aromatic flavor without overpowering the dish.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Adds a smoky nuance that elevates the overall flavor profile.
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder: A gentle sweetness and depth enhancing component.
- Ground black pepper, to taste: For a subtle kick and complexity.
- Salt, to taste: Essential for balancing all the flavors perfectly.
How to Make High Protein Chicken Salad Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
Start by seasoning your chicken breasts with either the chicken seasoning or a simple pinch of salt. Cook them thoroughly until tender and juicy. This is the foundation for your salad, so aim for moist chicken that will shred easily without drying out.
Step 2: Prepare the Creamy Base
While the chicken cooks, blend your cottage cheese and mayonnaise together until smooth and creamy. This mixture forms the luscious dressing that keeps every forkful indulgent and satisfying.
Step 3: Shred the Chicken
Once your chicken is cooked and slightly cooled, shred it into bite-sized pieces. This texture is key because it allows the chicken to mix more thoroughly with the creamy dressing and crunchy ingredients.
Step 4: Combine All Ingredients
In a large bowl, toss together the shredded chicken, creamy cottage cheese and mayo blend, quartered grapes, chopped celery, fresh lemon juice, dried oregano, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and onion powder. Mix everything gently but thoroughly so each ingredient shines.
Step 5: Season and Chill
Season your salad with salt and black pepper to taste. Pop it into the fridge for a bit before serving—this helps the flavors meld beautifully, turning every bite into a symphony of taste and texture.
How to Serve High Protein Chicken Salad Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley or a few extra whole grapes on top can make your High Protein Chicken Salad Recipe pop visually and add a fresh note to the flavor.
Side Dishes
Pair this salad with crunchy whole-grain crackers, a green leafy salad, or even wrapped in a warm whole wheat pita for a well-rounded and satisfying meal that keeps energy levels high.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the salad in halved avocados for a stunning presentation or spoon it over a bed of mixed greens to transform it into a colorful and nutritious main dish.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This salad keeps beautifully refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The flavors continue to develop, making leftovers just as delightful as freshly made.
Freezing
Freezing isn’t recommended due to the creamy base’s tendency to separate when thawed, so it’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated.
Reheating
Since this salad is best served cold, reheating isn’t necessary. If you prefer it slightly warmer, allow it to come to room temperature instead of heating it.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut that adds extra flavor and saves time without compromising the deliciousness of the salad.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, the High Protein Chicken Salad Recipe is ideal for meal prep. It stores well in the fridge and tastes great over a few days, making it perfect for busy weeks.
Can I substitute mayonnaise with a healthier option?
You can swap mayonnaise for Greek yogurt or a light mayo alternative to reduce calories while maintaining creaminess and tang.
How can I make this salad more crunchy?
Increase the amount of celery or add chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts for an extra satisfying crunch.
Is this salad gluten-free?
Yes, it naturally is gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free seasoning and condiments.
Final Thoughts
This High Protein Chicken Salad Recipe is a total winner when you want something quick, tasty, and nourishing that doesn’t sacrifice any joy in eating. Packed with protein and bursting with fresh, balanced flavors, it’s sure to become a household favorite. Give it a try, and watch this salad turn into your go-to meal for any occasion.
Print
High Protein Chicken Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This High Protein Chicken Salad is a delicious and nutritious dish perfect for a light lunch or dinner. Made with tender, seasoned chicken breasts combined with creamy cottage cheese and mayonnaise, it features a medley of flavors from grapes, celery, lemon juice, and aromatic spices like oregano, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. This salad is easy to prepare, packed with protein, and great for meal prep or entertaining.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 1.4 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 2 teaspoons chicken seasoning
- Salt, to taste
- Ground black pepper, to taste
Dressing & Mix-ins
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 65 g grapes, quartered
- 2 celery ribs, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
Instructions
- Cook the Chicken: Begin by seasoning the chicken breasts with the chicken seasoning or salt and pepper. Cook them thoroughly until tender, either by baking, boiling, or pan cooking, then set aside to cool slightly.
- Prepare the Dressing: In a blender or food processor, blend the cottage cheese and mayonnaise until the mixture is smooth and creamy to create the base for the chicken salad.
- Shred the Chicken: Once the cooked chicken has cooled, shred it into bite-sized pieces using two forks or your hands, and transfer it into a large mixing bowl.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the blended cottage cheese and mayonnaise mixture to the shredded chicken. Then fold in the quartered grapes, chopped celery, fresh lemon juice, dried oregano, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and onion powder. Mix until all ingredients are well combined.
- Season and Chill: Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and ground black pepper as needed. Cover the salad and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
Notes
- You can cook the chicken by baking at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes or by boiling it until fully cooked.
- Use seedless grapes and wash thoroughly before quartering.
- For a lower-fat version, substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt.
- This salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Serve on a bed of lettuce, with whole grain bread, or as a high-protein wrap filling.
