This Cottage Cheese Chicken Salad is a tasty and creamy mix that’s perfect for lunch! Packed with chunks of chicken and crunchy banana peppers, it’s a refreshing dish.
Honestly, it feels like a party in a bowl! I love adding some crispy crackers on the side for an extra crunch. And guess what? It’s super quick to make, so I can enjoy it anytime!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Chicken: You can use any cooked chicken, but rotisserie chicken is my go-to for convenience. If you need a lighter option, shredded turkey works great too!
Cottage Cheese: This creamy base is essential, but if you’re looking for a dairy-free alternative, try using a non-dairy yogurt or crumbled tofu for a different texture.
Banana Peppers: They add a nice kick! If you’re not a fan of heat, sweet bell peppers or even diced pickles can be a fantastic substitute.
Greek Yogurt: I prefer Greek yogurt for its tangy flavor and thicker consistency. If you want something richer, mayonnaise works well too. You can even mix both for a balanced taste!
Fresh Herbs: While I love using fresh parsley for garnish, feel free to swap it out with cilantro or dill for a unique twist. Fresh herbs brighten up this salad and make it more vibrant.
How Can I Ensure all Ingredients are Well Combined?
A smooth mix is key for the best flavor. Here’s how to get it right:
- Start with a large bowl to give yourself space to combine the ingredients without spilling.
- Add chicken, cottage cheese, and veggies first. This helps create a good base.
- Mix gently with a spatula, folding the ingredients instead of stirring vigorously to keep the chicken pieces intact.
- Once mixed, add Greek yogurt and mustard for creaminess. This can be done in stages to avoid clumping.
Taking your time ensures every bite is flavorful. Letting it chill in the fridge for 30 minutes really makes the flavors pop, too!
How to Make Cottage Cheese Chicken Salad with Banana Peppers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Salad Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- ½ cup banana peppers, chopped (mild or hot to taste)
- ¼ cup red onion, finely chopped
- ¼ cup green bell pepper, diced
- ¼ cup celery, diced (optional)
Dressing Ingredients:
- ¼ cup Greek yogurt (or mayonnaise, for creaminess)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish and Serving:
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley or green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- Pita bread or crackers (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare and an optional 30 minutes to chill in the fridge. Perfect for a quick lunch or a tasty snack!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, cottage cheese, chopped banana peppers, finely chopped red onion, diced green bell pepper, and diced celery (if you’re using it). Give everything a good stir to mix it all together.
2. Add the Dressing:
Next, add the Greek yogurt (or mayonnaise) and Dijon mustard to the bowl. Stir well until all the ingredients are evenly coated and blended. This will give your salad a creamy texture that’s really yummy!
3. Season to Taste:
Now it’s time to season! Sprinkle in some salt and pepper according to your taste preferences. Mix it again to incorporate the seasonings — take a little taste to see if you want to add more!
4. Garnish and Serve:
For a splash of color and flavor, garnish your salad with freshly chopped parsley or green onions. Serve it immediately, or you can refrigerate it for about 30 minutes to let the flavors mingle even more. Enjoy it with pita bread or crackers for a delicious treat!
Enjoy your refreshing cottage cheese chicken salad!
Can I Use Canned Chicken Instead of Cooked Chicken?
Yes, you can definitely use canned chicken! Just make sure to drain and rinse it before adding to the salad. Canned chicken is convenient and works well, though the texture may be slightly different from freshly cooked chicken.
What If I Don’t Have Greek Yogurt?
No worries! If you don’t have Greek yogurt, you can substitute it with regular yogurt or mayonnaise. For a healthier option, use a mix of both to maintain creaminess while keeping some tanginess from the yogurt.
Can I Add Other Vegetables or Ingredients?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize your salad by adding ingredients like diced cucumbers, shredded carrots, or even a handful of spinach for extra greens. Just keep the proportions balanced to maintain the flavor!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For best taste, enjoy the salad chilled, and give it a good stir before serving if it has settled.
