Juicy Buffalo Chicken Salad with Cottage Cheese Bliss
Enjoy a delightful Juicy Buffalo Chicken Salad with Cottage Cheese, packed with flavor and nutrition, perfect for meal prep.
Equipment
- - Pot
- - Large bowl
- Whisk
Ingredients
For the Salad
- 1.25 lb Chicken Main protein source; can be replaced with rotisserie chicken for quicker prep.
- 2/3 cup Cottage Cheese Provides creaminess and protein; substitute with Greek yogurt for a thicker texture.
- 1/4 cup Yogurt Adds creaminess and balances flavors; omit for an all-cottage cheese version if you prefer.
- 4 tbsp Buffalo Sauce Infuses the salad with tanginess and heat; Frank's RedHot is a great choice.
- 2.5 tsp Ranch Seasoning Enhances the overall flavor; homemade ranch seasoning can be used.
- 1 tsp Lemon Juice Adds brightness; freshly squeezed juice is always best.
- 1/3 cup Onion Provides nice crunch and flavor; green onions work well as a substitute.
- 1/3 cup Celery Offers a satisfying crunch; finely dice for optimal texture.
- 1/3 cup Cheddar Cheese Introduces a rich flavor; consider pepper jack cheese for an extra kick.
- 1/4 tsp Garlic Powder Deepens the flavor of the salad; fresh minced garlic can substitute.
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Bring a pot of water to a boil, then add the chicken. Simmer for 15-20 minutes until it reaches 165°F. Drain and allow to cool before shredding.
- In a large bowl, whisk together cottage cheese, yogurt, buffalo sauce, ranch seasoning, lemon juice, and garlic powder until smooth and creamy.
- Shred the cooked chicken and fold it into the dressing. Toss in the diced celery, onion, and cheddar cheese until everything is evenly coated.
- Add salt and pepper to taste. Let the salad sit for 5-10 minutes to enhance flavors before serving.
Notes
Serve with fresh avocado slices for a creamy touch. Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Flavors improve after hours in the fridge.