This Blackberry Cottage Cheese Chicken Salad is a protein-packed, low-carb meal that’s both refreshing and creamy. With juicy blackberries, crunchy celery, and toasted nuts, this dish offers a perfect balance of textures and flavors. Whether served on its own, over greens, or as a sandwich filling, it’s a quick and nutritious option for any meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- High-Protein & Low-Carb – Cottage cheese and chicken provide a lean protein boost.
- Sweet & Savory Contrast – The tangy blackberries add a natural sweetness to the creamy salad.
- Quick & Easy – Ready in just 10 minutes, no cooking required!
- Versatile – Serve as a sandwich filling, in lettuce wraps, or over greens.
- Meal Prep Friendly – Stays fresh for up to 3 days, making it a great make-ahead meal.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Cooked, shredded chicken
- Cottage cheese
- Mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a lighter option)
- Salt & black pepper
- Garlic powder
- Lemon juice
- Fresh blackberries
- Chopped celery
- Chopped walnuts or pecans
- Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Directions
1. Make the Dressing:
- In a large bowl, mix together cottage cheese, mayonnaise, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and lemon juice until smooth.
2. Assemble the Salad:
- Add shredded chicken, celery, and nuts to the bowl, stirring until evenly coated.
- Gently fold in the blackberries to keep them whole.
3. Serve & Enjoy:
- Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired.
- Serve chilled on its own, over greens, in lettuce wraps, or as a sandwich filling.
Servings and Timing
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories: 280 kcal per serving
Variations
- Dairy-Free Version – Use dairy-free yogurt or avocado instead of cottage cheese.
- Spicy Kick – Add a dash of cayenne pepper or chili flakes for heat.
- Extra Crunch – Include chopped apples or sunflower seeds for more texture.
- Different Berries – Swap blackberries for blueberries or raspberries.
- Keto Option – Use full-fat mayo and extra nuts for added healthy fats.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Not recommended, as the texture may change.
- Serving: Enjoy cold or at room temperature.
FAQs
Can I use canned chicken instead of cooked shredded chicken?
Yes! Canned chicken works well for a quick, convenient option.
What’s the best way to serve this salad?
Try it:
- Over mixed greens
- In lettuce wraps
- Stuffed in a low-carb tortilla
- On toasted whole-grain bread
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! It stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days.
What nuts work best in this recipe?
Walnuts, pecans, or almonds add great texture and flavor.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! It’s naturally gluten-free when served without bread.
Can I make this salad vegetarian?
Swap the chicken for chickpeas for a plant-based alternative.
Conclusion
This Low Carb Blackberry Cottage Cheese Chicken Salad is a light, flavorful, and protein-rich meal that’s quick to prepare and incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week or looking for a nutritious lunch, this sweet and savory salad is a must-try!
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PrintLow Carb Blackberry Cottage Cheese Chicken Salad
A refreshing and protein-packed chicken salad with creamy cottage cheese, juicy blackberries, crunchy celery, and toasted nuts. This low-carb meal is perfect for a light lunch, sandwich filling, or quick snack!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Salad, High-Protein Meal
- Method: No-Cook, Mixed
- Cuisine: American, Low-Carb
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
- 1/2 cup cottage cheese
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a lighter option)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1/2 cup fresh blackberries
- 1/2 cup chopped celery
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
-
Prepare the Dressing:
- In a large bowl, combine cottage cheese, mayonnaise, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and lemon juice.
- Mix well until smooth and creamy.
-
Assemble the Salad:
- Add the shredded chicken, celery, and nuts, stirring until evenly coated.
-
Fold in the Blackberries:
- Gently fold in the blackberries to keep them whole.
-
Serve & Enjoy:
- Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
- Serve chilled on its own, over greens, or as a sandwich filling.
Notes
- Swap blackberries for blueberries or grapes for a different twist.
- Use toasted almonds instead of walnuts or pecans.
- Perfect for meal prep—store in the fridge for up to 3 days.