This tasty Low Carb Blackberry Cottage Cheese Chicken Salad is a fresh mix of juicy chicken, creamy cottage cheese, and sweet blackberries. It’s light, healthy, and super satisfying!
I love how the sharp sweetness of the blackberries pairs with the creamy cottage cheese. Perfect for lunch or a quick snack when you need a little pick-me-up! 🥗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Chicken: Shredded rotisserie chicken works great in this salad, saving you cooking time. If you’re vegetarian, you could substitute the chicken with chickpeas for a protein boost.
Cottage Cheese: Look for low-fat or full-fat cottage cheese based on your preference. If you’re dairy-free, consider using a plant-based yogurt or tofu that’s been blended until smooth.
Blackberries: Fresh blackberries add a pop of flavor and color. If they’re out of season, feel free to swap in raspberries or blueberries. They bring similar tartness to the salad.
Walnuts: Chopped walnuts provide a nice crunch. Pecans or almonds can be used as alternatives. You can even skip nuts for a nut-free option.
Dijon Mustard: This ingredient brings a tangy punch. If you don’t have it, yellow mustard will work, though it’s milder in flavor. You can also use a touch of vinegar for tanginess.
How Do I Avoid Squishing the Blackberries When Mixing?
To keep your blackberries intact while mixing, use a gentle folding technique. This method incorporates ingredients without crushing the fruit. Here’s how:
- Combine the chicken, cottage cheese, and mustard first.
- Then, add the chopped celery and walnuts before the blackberries.
- Finally, scoop in the blackberries and gently fold everything together with a large spoon.
This way, you maintain beautifully whole blackberries that add vibrant flavor and color to your salad!
Low Carb Blackberry Cottage Cheese Chicken Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 1 cup fresh blackberries
- 1/2 cup celery, diced
- 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped
Dressings and Seasonings:
- 1 tablespoon mayonnaise (optional for creaminess)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful salad takes about 10 minutes to prepare. It’s a quick and easy recipe that’s perfect for any light meal or snack. No cooking required for this one—just mix, season, and enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Base Ingredients:
Start by grabbing a large mixing bowl. In it, combine the shredded chicken, cottage cheese, and Dijon mustard. Use a spoon or spatula to mix everything well until the chicken is nicely coated with the creamy cottage cheese. This is the tasty base of your salad!
2. Add the Fresh Ingredients:
Next, it’s time to bring in some crunch and sweetness! Add the diced celery, fresh blackberries, and chopped walnuts to the bowl. Gently fold these ingredients together; be careful not to squish the blackberries too much— we want to keep them whole for beautiful bites!
3. Creaminess Option:
If you’re a fan of creamy salads, this is the moment to add the mayonnaise. Just mix it in until it’s well combined. This step is optional, but it really adds a smooth texture if you like it!
4. Season to Perfection:
Now it’s time to season your salad. Sprinkle in salt and pepper to taste. Give it a gentle stir and taste a little to see if you’d like to adjust the flavors. Remember, cooking is all about your preferences!
5. Serve and Garnish:
Your salad is almost ready! Scoop it out onto a plate or into a bowl, and if you like, garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top for a nice touch.
6. Enjoy!
Dig in! This low carb blackberry cottage cheese chicken salad is delicious either chilled or at room temperature. Perfect for a light meal or a healthy snack. Enjoy your refreshing creation!
Can I Use Canned Chicken Instead of Cooked Chicken?
Absolutely! If you’re short on time, canned chicken can be a great substitute. Just make sure to drain it well and shred it with a fork before mixing it with the cottage cheese. It may have a slightly different texture, but it will still be tasty!
Can I Substitute Greek Yogurt for Cottage Cheese?
Yes, you can use Greek yogurt instead of cottage cheese for a different flavor profile. Keep in mind that Greek yogurt will add a bit more tanginess, but it will still make a creamy salad. You might want to adjust the amount of Dijon mustard to balance the flavors!
How to Store Leftover Chicken Salad?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To help maintain the texture, keep the walnuts separate until you’re ready to serve, as they can become soggy over time.
Can I Add Other Fruits to This Salad?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix in other berries like raspberries or blueberries, or even diced apples or grapes for a different taste and texture. Just be mindful of the carb content if you’re watching your intake!
