This Cottage Cheese Chicken Salad with Banana Peppers is a high-protein, low-carb dish that’s both flavorful and easy to prepare. Combining creamy cottage cheese with tangy banana peppers and rotisserie chicken, it offers a satisfying meal perfect for lunch or dinner.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- High in Protein: The combination of rotisserie chicken and cottage cheese provides a substantial protein boost, keeping you satisfied longer.
- Low-Carb Friendly: With minimal carbohydrates, this dish fits well into low-carb and keto diets.
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just 10 minutes, it’s perfect for busy days when you need something nutritious and filling fast.
- Flavorful and Versatile: The tangy banana peppers and crunchy vegetables add depth of flavor and texture, making it a delightful meal on its own or served on a bed of greens, in a low-carb wrap, or pita.
Ingredients
- 1 cup rotisserie chicken, chopped into small chunks
- ½ cup low-fat (2% milkfat) cottage cheese, blended smooth
- ¼ cup jarred banana peppers (mild or spicy), diced
- ¼ cup red onion, diced
- ¼ cup celery, diced
- 2 tablespoons green onion, thinly sliced
- ½ teaspoon Dijon or spicy mustard
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt and pepper
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Blend the Cottage Cheese: In a food processor, pulse the cottage cheese, mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the blended cottage cheese mixture with the chopped chicken, banana peppers, red onion, celery, and green onion. Stir until well combined.
- Adjust Seasonings: Taste the salad and adjust seasonings if needed.
- Serve: Serve immediately or store in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: This recipe yields 2 servings.
- Preparation Time: Approximately 10 minutes.
- Total Time: Approximately 10 minutes.
Variations
- Cheese Options: Substitute cottage cheese with ricotta or cream cheese for a different texture and flavor.
- Additional Vegetables: Incorporate diced bell peppers, cucumbers, or cherry tomatoes for added freshness.
- Herb Enhancements: Add fresh herbs like parsley, dill, or cilantro to elevate the flavor profile.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: This salad is best enjoyed cold. If preferred warm, gently reheat in the microwave on low power until heated through.
FAQs
Can I use cooked chicken instead of rotisserie chicken?
Yes, cooked chicken can be used. Ensure it’s chopped into small, bite-sized pieces for the best texture.
Is this recipe suitable for a keto diet?
Yes, this salad is low in carbohydrates and high in protein, making it suitable for a ketogenic diet.
Can I add other vegetables to this salad?
Absolutely. Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers, cucumbers, or cherry tomatoes to enhance the flavor and texture.
How can I make this salad spicier?
Add a dash of hot sauce, red pepper flakes, or use spicy banana peppers to increase the heat.
Can I prepare this salad ahead of time?
Yes, this salad can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
What can I serve this salad with?
This salad is versatile and can be served on a bed of greens, in a low-carb wrap, or pita. It also pairs well with a side of fresh vegetables or a light soup.
Can I use full-fat cottage cheese?
Yes, you can use full-fat cottage cheese if you prefer. It will add a richer flavor and creamier texture.
Is this salad gluten-free?
Yes, this salad is gluten-free, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
How can I make this salad more filling?
Add a hard-boiled egg or a handful of nuts like almonds or walnuts for added protein and healthy fats.
Can I freeze this salad?
It’s not recommended to freeze this salad, as the texture of the cottage cheese and vegetables may change upon thawing.
Conclusion
This Cottage Cheese Chicken Salad with Banana Peppers is a quick, nutritious, and flavorful meal that’s perfect for those seeking a high-protein, low-carb option. Its versatility allows for various adaptations to suit your taste preferences. Enjoy it as a standalone dish or paired with your favorite sides.
Print
Cottage Cheese Chicken Salad with Banana Peppers
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Salad, Main Course
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Cottage Cheese Chicken Salad with Banana Peppers is a high-protein, low-carb dish that’s creamy, tangy, and incredibly easy to prepare. Featuring rotisserie chicken, blended cottage cheese, and crunchy vegetables, this flavorful salad is perfect for a quick lunch, meal prep, or a healthy snack. Serve it on greens, in a wrap, or with pita for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
- 1 cup rotisserie chicken, chopped
- ½ cup low-fat (2%) cottage cheese, blended smooth
- ¼ cup jarred banana peppers (mild or spicy), diced
- ¼ cup red onion, diced
- ¼ cup celery, diced
- 2 tbsp green onion, thinly sliced
- ½ tsp Dijon or spicy mustard
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ¼ tsp salt & pepper
Instructions
1️⃣ Blend the Cottage Cheese:
- In a food processor, blend cottage cheese, mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
2️⃣ Mix the Salad:
- In a large bowl, combine chicken, banana peppers, red onion, celery, and green onion.
- Pour in the blended cottage cheese mixture and stir until fully combined.
3️⃣ Adjust Seasonings & Serve:
- Taste and adjust salt, pepper, or spice as needed.
- Serve immediately or refrigerate for later.
Notes
- Spicier Option: Use spicy banana peppers or add red pepper flakes.
- Extra Crunch: Add diced bell peppers, cucumbers, or cherry tomatoes.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Serving Ideas: Enjoy on a bed of greens, in a low-carb wrap, or stuffed in a pita.
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