This Blackberry Cottage Cheese Chicken Salad is a yummy dish that combines juicy chicken, creamy cottage cheese, and sweet blackberries. It’s fresh and filling, making it a perfect meal!
You won’t believe how quick it is to whip up. Just mix the ingredients and enjoy a tasty bowl that feels like a hug in food form. The sweetness of blackberries adds a fun twist! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Cooked chicken breast gives this salad a protein boost. You can use rotisserie chicken for an easy option or even substitute it with canned chicken if you’re in a hurry.
Blackberries: Fresh blackberries provide sweetness and color. If they’re not available, raspberries or blueberries can work well, bringing their own unique flavors to the mix.
Cottage Cheese: This adds creaminess and protein. If you’re lactose intolerant, try using a vegan cheese or Greek yogurt in its place for a similar texture.
Walnuts: They bring a crunchy texture. You can swap them for pecans or sunflower seeds if you’re looking for a nut-free option. Toasting enhances their flavor!
Greens: Romaine lettuce is great for base crunch. You can mix it up with spinach or kale for some variety in texture and nutrients.
How Do I Make Sure My Salad Ingredients Are Well Combined?
Mixing ingredients without crushing delicate components like blackberries can be tricky. Here’s how to do it smoothly:
- Start by adding the sturdier ingredients like chicken and cottage cheese in your bowl first.
- Carefully fold in the softer items like blackberries and grapes last. Use a spatula to lift from the bottom gently.
- Keep mixing to a minimum to preserve the shape of the blackberries and maintain that fresh look.
And remember, chilling the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving helps the flavors come together!
Blackberry Cottage Cheese Chicken Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
- 1 cup fresh blackberries
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 1 cup red seedless grapes, halved
- 1 cup diced celery
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts, toasted
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 2 cups chopped romaine lettuce or mixed greens
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (for slight sweetness)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare. For the best flavor, it’s good to chill it for up to 2 hours before serving, though you can enjoy it right away if you’re in a hurry!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, add the shredded chicken, cottage cheese, fresh blackberries, halved grapes, diced celery, chopped walnuts, and fresh parsley. This colorful combination will make your salad eye-catching!
2. Add Flavor:
Pour in the lemon juice, sprinkle the salt, and add the black pepper. If you like a hint of sweetness, mix in the honey or maple syrup as well. Gently stir everything together, being careful not to crush the blackberries. You want them to remain whole for that burst of flavor!
3. Prepare Your Greens:
On serving plates or in a large salad bowl, place the chopped romaine lettuce or mixed greens as a hearty base for your salad.
4. Assemble the Salad:
Spoon the delicious chicken and cottage cheese mixture over the bed of greens. Make sure each plate gets a good helping of that tasty blend!
5. Garnish:
For a beautiful presentation, add a few extra blackberries and some walnut pieces on top. It not only looks great but adds even more flavor and crunch!
6. Serve & Enjoy:
Serve the salad immediately, or cover and refrigerate it for up to 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld. It’s perfect for lunch, a light dinner, or as a side dish!
Enjoy this fresh, protein-packed salad that balances creamy, fruity, crunchy, and savory flavors! 🥗🍇
Can I Use Leftover Chicken?
Absolutely! Leftover cooked chicken is perfect for this salad—just shred it up and add it to the mix. It’s a great way to use up those extra portions from last night’s dinner!
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the salad mixture a few hours ahead and refrigerate it. Just keep the greens separate until you’re ready to serve to avoid sogginess!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. If the greens are mixed in, the salad may get a bit soggy, so it’s best to keep them separate if possible.
What Can I Substitute for Walnuts?
If you need a nut-free option, try using sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds instead. They will add a nice crunch and maintain the texture of the salad!