Why Make This Recipe
Cottage Cheese Chicken Salad with Banana Peppers is a refreshing and nutritious dish that combines the best of flavors and textures. It is an easy recipe that is great for lunch or a light dinner. This salad is packed with protein, thanks to the rotisserie chicken and cottage cheese, while banana peppers add a lovely, mild kick. Plus, it’s quick to make and can be enjoyed right away or kept in the fridge for later.
How to Make Cottage Cheese Chicken Salad with Banana Peppers
Ingredients:
- 1 cup rotisserie chicken, chopped into small chunks
- 0.5 cup low-fat (2 percent milkfat) cottage cheese, blended smooth
- 0.25 cup jarred banana peppers, diced
- 0.25 cup red onion, diced
- 0.25 cup celery, diced
- 2 tablespoons green onion, thinly sliced
- 0.5 teaspoon Dijon or spicy mustard
- 0.5 teaspoon garlic powder
- 0.25 teaspoon salt
- 0.25 teaspoon pepper
Directions:
- In a food processor, pulse cottage cheese, mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- 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 everything is well combined.
- Taste the salad and adjust the seasonings if needed.
- Serve immediately or store in the fridge until ready to serve.
How to Serve Cottage Cheese Chicken Salad with Banana Peppers
You can serve this salad in various ways. It’s perfect on its own in a bowl or on a plate. You can also enjoy it in a wrap or sandwich using whole wheat bread or lettuce leaves for a lighter option. Garnish with additional green onions or banana peppers for a fresh touch.
How to Store Cottage Cheese Chicken Salad with Banana Peppers
To store the salad, place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for about 2-3 days. Make sure to give it a good stir before serving if it has been sitting in the fridge.
Tips to Make Cottage Cheese Chicken Salad with Banana Peppers
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables will enhance the flavor and crunch of your salad.
- Adjust Spice Levels: If you prefer a spicier salad, add more banana peppers or a dash of hot sauce.
- Make it Ahead: This salad can be made a day in advance. The flavors will meld beautifully as it sits in the fridge.
Variation
You can add other ingredients like diced bell peppers, shredded carrots, or even nuts for added crunch. Experiment with different herbs like cilantro or dill for a unique twist.
FAQs
Can I use leftover chicken?
Yes, you can use any leftover cooked chicken for this recipe. It’s a great way to repurpose it!
Is this salad gluten-free?
Yes, all the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making this salad a good choice for gluten-sensitive individuals.
Can I replace the cottage cheese?
If you’re not a fan of cottage cheese, you can substitute it with Greek yogurt for a creamy texture.
Cottage Cheese Chicken Salad with Banana Peppers
Ingredients
For the Salad
- 1 cup rotisserie chicken, chopped into small chunks Use leftover or fresh rotisserie chicken.
- 0.5 cup low-fat (2 percent milkfat) cottage cheese, blended smooth Blend until smooth for a creamy texture.
- 0.25 cup jarred banana peppers, diced Adjust quantity for desired spice.
- 0.25 cup red onion, diced For a milder flavor, soak in cold water before adding.
- 0.25 cup celery, diced Adds crunch to the salad.
- 2 tablespoons green onion, thinly sliced For garnish and added flavor.
For the Dressing
- 0.5 teaspoon Dijon or spicy mustard For added flavor.
- 0.5 teaspoon garlic powder Can replace with fresh garlic if preferred.
- 0.25 teaspoon salt Adjust based on taste.
- 0.25 teaspoon pepper Black pepper recommended.
Instructions
Preparation
- In a food processor, pulse cottage cheese, mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- 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 everything is well combined.
- Taste the salad and adjust the seasonings if needed.
Serving
- Serve immediately or store in the fridge until ready to serve.