Blackberry Cottage Cheese Chicken

This vibrant blackberry cottage cheese chicken salad brings together the unexpected pairing of juicy berries and savory chicken for a refreshing low-carb meal. The creamy cottage cheese base creates a protein-packed alternative to traditional mayo-heavy chicken salads while adding a delightful texture contrast to the tender chicken.

I discovered this recipe during a summer meal prep session when I was looking for something beyond basic chicken salad. The blackberries were an impulsive addition that transformed the dish into something my family now requests weekly.

Ingredients

• Chicken breasts provides lean protein and makes this salad hearty enough for a main course
• Cottage cheese adds creaminess with extra protein while reducing the need for excess mayo
• Mayonnaise brings richness and helps bind the ingredients together
• Celery stalks contribute essential crunch and subtle flavor while keeping carbs minimal
• Green onions offer a mild allium flavor that complements the berries without overpowering
• Blackberries add surprising bursts of juicy sweetness and gorgeous color to the salad
• Walnuts deliver satisfying crunch and heart-healthy fats that make the salad more filling
• Salt and pepper allow you to adjust seasoning to your preference

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cook the Chicken

Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper before cooking through your preferred method. For maximum flavor bake at 375°F for about 25 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 165°F. Allow to cool completely before shredding into bite-sized pieces with two forks or your hands. The texture should be uniform but not too fine.

Prepare the Veggies

Dice celery into small uniform pieces about 1/4 inch thick. Slice green onions thinly including some of the light green parts for color and flavor. Gently wash blackberries and pat dry before halving or quartering depending on their size. Larger berries should be quartered to ensure you get berry flavor in each bite.

Assemble the Salad

Combine the cooled shredded chicken with prepared celery green onions blackberries and walnuts in a large mixing bowl. Toss gently to distribute ingredients evenly throughout the mixture being careful not to crush the berries. The bowl should be spacious enough to allow thorough mixing without ingredients spilling over.

Add the Dressing

Spoon cottage cheese and mayonnaise into the bowl with other ingredients. Fold everything together with a rubber spatula using gentle strokes from bottom to top. Continue mixing until all ingredients are coated evenly with the creamy dressing. The consistency should be creamy but still show distinct ingredients.

Season

Sprinkle with salt and freshly ground black pepper starting with less than you think you need. Taste and adjust seasoning gradually until flavors are balanced. The berries provide natural sweetness so adequate salt helps balance the flavor profile perfectly.

Serve

Portion the finished salad onto plates as a standalone meal or onto keto bread for a satisfying sandwich. For best presentation make sure to scoop from the bottom of the bowl to ensure each serving has a good mix of all ingredients especially the colorful berries.

Bookmark

The blackberries are truly the star ingredient here. I first tried this recipe with strawberries but found blackberries offer a perfect balance of sweetness and tartness that elevates the entire dish. My husband who typically avoids fruit in savory dishes now specifically requests the blackberry version.

Storage Tips

This chicken salad will keep beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually improve after a few hours as they meld together. If making ahead consider adding the blackberries just before serving to maintain their texture and prevent color bleeding throughout the salad. For meal prep portion into individual containers for grab and go lunches that stay fresh all week.

Seasonal Variations

While fresh blackberries make this salad special in summer try different berries depending on seasonal availability. Raspberries work wonderfully in late summer while cranberries make an excellent holiday version when chopped and lightly sweetened. In winter consider adding diced apple with a touch of cinnamon for a completely different but equally delicious variation that maintains the low carb profile.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this versatile salad in lettuce cups for an even lower carb lunch option. Large butter lettuce or romaine leaves create perfect edible vessels. For an elegant appetizer spoon small portions onto cucumber rounds or endive leaves. When entertaining arrange on a platter surrounded by keto crackers fresh vegetable sticks and additional berries for a stunning presentation that accommodates various dietary preferences.

Recipe FAQs

→ How long does this chicken salad keep in the refrigerator?

This blackberry cottage cheese chicken salad will keep for 3-4 days when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. For best freshness, add the blackberries just before serving if preparing in advance.

→ Can I substitute the cottage cheese with something else?

Yes, you can substitute the cottage cheese with Greek yogurt for a tangier flavor profile, or use additional mayonnaise for a richer texture. Each alternative will change the flavor and nutritional profile slightly.

→ What are some serving suggestions for this dish?

Serve this chicken salad on a bed of mixed greens, stuffed in avocado halves, wrapped in lettuce leaves, or on keto-friendly bread. It also works well as a protein-packed snack with cucumber slices or celery sticks.

→ Can I use other berries instead of blackberries?

Absolutely! Raspberries or sliced strawberries would work wonderfully as alternatives. Blueberries are also a good option, though they have a slightly higher carb content. Choose berries that are firm and not overly ripe for the best texture.

→ How can I make this dish dairy-free?

To make this dish dairy-free, replace the cottage cheese with dairy-free yogurt or additional mayonnaise. You could also use mashed avocado mixed with a bit of lemon juice for creaminess without dairy.

→ What's the best way to cook the chicken for this salad?

Poaching or baking chicken breasts will yield tender, juicy meat perfect for shredding. For extra flavor, consider cooking the chicken with herbs like thyme or rosemary. Rotisserie chicken also works wonderfully as a time-saving option.