High Protein Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad (Extra Creamy with Cottage Cheese)

If you’ve tried greek yogurt chicken salad before and didn’t love it, you’re not alone. It can be a little too tangy, a little too thin, and just not as satisfying as the classic version. This high protein chicken salad solves that by blending Greek yogurt with cottage cheese, giving you a creamy, rich texture without using mayo. It’s packed with protein, has the perfect crunch from celery and cashews, and is one of those simple meals you’ll end up making on repeat.

Why you will love this high protein chicken salad

• A high protein chicken salad that keeps you full longer
• Made with Greek yogurt and cottage cheese instead of mayo
• Creamy texture with crunchy celery and cashews
• Easy to make and perfect for meal prep or quick lunches

Ingredients for greek yogurt chicken salad

This chicken salad uses simple ingredients, but the combination is what makes it extra creamy and high in protein.

Cooked chicken breast
You can use shredded or chopped chicken breast. This is a great way to use up leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken. If I am making chicken specifically for this recipe, I like to bake the well seasoned chicken breasts in the oven at 350F for 30 minutes.

Cottage cheese
Blending the cottage cheese gives the dressing a smooth, creamy texture while adding extra protein. You can use fat free or 2% depending on your preference. 2% will be a little creamier.

Greek yogurt
Adds creaminess and a slight tang while keeping the chicken salad light and high in protein. I like using plain nonfat Greek yogurt, but 2% or whole milk will give a richer texture.

Pickle juice
Adds brightness and helps balance the creaminess of the dressing. Start with a small amount and adjust to taste.

Dijon mustard
Adds flavor and a slight tang that brings everything together.

Cashews
Give the chicken salad a buttery crunch that pairs really well with the creamy dressing. You can swap for almonds or pecans if you prefer.

Celery
Adds freshness and crunch to balance the texture.

How to make high protein chicken salad

Add the cottage cheese, Greek yogurt, pickle juice, and dijon mustard to a blender or small food processor. Blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy.

In a medium bowl, add the cooked chicken breast, diced celery, and cashews.

Pour the blended dressing over the chicken mixture and stir until everything is well coated.

Taste and adjust if needed by adding a little more pickle juice or mustard. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve right away or refrigerate until ready to eat. The flavor gets even better after it chills for a bit.

The secret to a creamy chicken salad without mayo

Most greek yogurt chicken salad recipes rely on yogurt alone, which can sometimes make the texture a little too thin or tangy. The difference in this recipe is using a blend of Greek yogurt and cottage cheese.

When you blend the cottage cheese, it becomes smooth and creamy, almost like a thicker dressing. This helps balance the tanginess of the yogurt and gives the chicken salad a richer texture without needing any mayo.

It also adds even more protein, making this a chicken salad that is not only lighter, but more satisfying and filling.

How much protein is in this chicken salad

This chicken salad has about 43 grams of protein per serving, making it a great option if you’re trying to stay full, support muscle, or simply eat more protein without overthinking it.

Because the protein comes from chicken, Greek yogurt, and cottage cheese, it’s more balanced than traditional chicken salad and helps keep you satisfied for longer. This makes it a great choice for lunch or meal prep when you want something quick that actually fuels you.

Tips for the best greek yogurt chicken salad texture

Blend the cottage cheese until smooth
This is the most important step. Blending the cottage cheese makes the dressing creamy and prevents a lumpy texture.

Do not overdress the chicken
Start with less dressing and add more as needed. Too much can make the chicken salad watery instead of creamy.

Use well-cooked chicken
Chicken that is seasoned well and not overcooked will give you the best flavor and texture. Dry chicken will make the whole dish less enjoyable.

Cut everything evenly
Try to keep the chicken, celery, and other mix-ins a similar size so you get a perfect bite every time.

Add crunch right before serving
If you are meal prepping, you can wait to add the cashews until just before serving so they stay cunchy.

Let it chill before serving
If you have time, refrigerate the chicken salad for 30 to 60 minutes. This helps the flavors come together and improves the texture.

Variations and add-ins

This greek yogurt chicken salad is easy to customize based on what you have on hand or your preferences.

Use rotisserie chicken
A great shortcut that adds extra flavor and saves time.

Swap the nuts
Cashews add a buttery texture, but almonds, pecans, or even walnuts would work.

Add something sweet
If you like a little sweetness, try adding halved grapes, diced apple, or dried cranberries.

Make it lower calorie
Use fat free cottage cheese and nonfat Greek yogurt for a lighter option that is still high in protein.

Make it richer
Use 2% or whole Greek yogurt and cottage cheese to make this even creamier.

Add more flavor
Mix in fresh herbs like dill or parsley, or add a squeeze of lemon juice for extra brightness.

Skip the cottage cheese
You can use all Greek yogurt if needed, but the sauce will be slightly less creamy and a bit more tangy.

How to serve this high protein chicken salad

This high protein chicken salad is easy to serve in a variety of ways depending on what you’re in the mood for.

Serve it in lettuce wraps for a light, low carb option that still feels satisfying.

Make a sandwich or wrap for a more traditional lunch. It pairs well with toasted bread, croissants, or a simple tortilla.

Add it to a meal prep bowl with quinoa or roasted vegetables for a more complete meal.

Scoop it with crackers or serve it with sliced veggies like cucumbers or bell peppers for an easy snack or quick lunch.

You can also enjoy it on its own straight from the fridge for a simple, high protein option when you don’t want to overthink it.

How to store and meal prep

This high protein chicken salad is perfect for meal prep and holds up well in the fridge.

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 or 4 days. Give it a quick stir before serving, as the dressing may settle slightly.

If you are meal prepping, you can portion the chicken salad into individual containers for easy grab-and-go lunches. To keep everything fresh, store the cashews separately and add them just before serving so they stay crunchy.

This chicken salad can be enjoyed cold straight from the fridge or let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before eating.

Freezing is not recommended since the texture of the Greek yogurt and cottage cheese can change after thawing.

Frequently asked questions

Can I make greek yogurt chicken salad without mayo
Yes, this recipe is made completely without mayo. The combination of Greek yogurt and cottage cheese gives it a creamy texture without needing any mayo.

Does cottage cheese change the taste
Not really. Once blended, the cottage cheese becomes smooth and mild. It helps make the chicken salad creamier without adding a strong flavor. I actually prefer this dressing over one with mayo because it isn't as heavy.

Is this a high protein chicken salad
Yes, this is a high protein chicken salad thanks to the chicken, Greek yogurt, and cottage cheese. It’s a great option if you want something filling but lower in calories.

Can I use rotisserie chicken
Yes, rotisserie chicken works great and makes this recipe even easier. Just chop or shred it and mix it with the dressing.

How long does chicken salad last in the fridge
This chicken salad will last about 3 to 4 days when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Can I freeze chicken salad
Freezing is not recommended since the texture of the yogurt and cottage cheese can change after thawing.

Is this chicken salad low carb
Yes, this recipe is naturally low in carbs and works well for a low carb or high protein way of eating. Keep it low carb by serving it with lettuce wraps or in a low carb tortilla (my favorite).

More high protein recipes you will love

If you’re looking for more easy, high protein meals, here are a few reader favorites:

Crispy chicken thighs
One of the most popular recipes on the site. Super simple, full of flavor, and perfect for meal prep.

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Chicken burrito bowl
A high protein meal that’s easy to customize and perfect for prepping ahead for the week.

Bacon wrapped chicken thighs
A simple recipe that feels a little more indulgent but still fits into a high protein way of eating.