When you’re craving a filling lunch that’s both light and protein-packed, this Cottage Cheese Chicken Salad Sandwich is your answer. It’s creamy without being heavy, thanks to cottage cheese replacing most of the mayo.
Mixed with tender chicken, crisp veggies, and herbs, it’s perfect between slices of hearty bread or tucked into a lettuce wrap. We make this every week—it’s family-approved and perfect for meal prep.
I love it on sourdough; the kids go for crackers. It’s quick, balanced, and keeps you full.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This chicken salad gives you everything you love—creamy, tangy, and satisfying—with a healthy twist. Cottage cheese adds protein and lightens it up without losing flavor. You’ll still get that rich, creamy texture but with more nutrients and less guilt.
It’s super versatile too: great in sandwiches, wraps, or even as a dip. If you’re meal prepping, eating clean, or just want a better lunch, this one-pot recipe is quick, delicious, and totally satisfying.
What You’ll Need
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or chopped (rotisserie works great)
- ½ cup cottage cheese (full fat or low fat)
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise or Greek yogurt (optional, for extra creaminess)
- 1 celery stalk, finely diced
- ¼ cup red onion, finely diced
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley or dill, chopped (optional)
- Whole grain or sourdough bread, for serving
- Lettuce and tomato slices, for sandwich assembly
Pro Tips
- Use rotisserie chicken to save time and add extra flavor to the salad.
- Blend the cottage cheese for a smoother, mayo-like texture, especially if you’re serving picky eaters.
- Chill before serving for the best flavor and texture—it helps the ingredients meld.
- Toast your bread lightly for extra texture and structure in your sandwich.
- Double the recipe and keep some on hand for quick lunches or snacks throughout the week.
Tools You’ll Need
- Mixing bowl
- Fork or spoon (or hand mixer if blending cottage cheese)
- Knife and cutting board
- Measuring spoons
- Airtight container for storage
- Toaster or skillet (optional, for toasted sandwiches)
Substitutions & Variations
No mayo? Use all Greek yogurt or more cottage cheese.
Dairy-free version: Use mashed avocado or a vegan mayo substitute instead of cottage cheese.
Add-ins: Grapes, chopped apples, walnuts, or sliced almonds for crunch and sweetness.
No bread? Serve in lettuce cups, on rice cakes, or in a whole wheat wrap.
Low-carb: Serve over mixed greens or in a hollowed-out bell pepper.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Prepare the chicken salad up to 4 days in advance and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- Keep bread and fillings separate until ready to serve to avoid soggy sandwiches.
- For meal prep, portion chicken salad into individual containers and pack with crackers or veggie sticks.
How to Make Cottage Cheese Chicken Salad Sandwich
Step 1: Mix the Base
In a medium bowl, add cottage cheese, mayonnaise or Greek yogurt (if using), Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
Step 2: Add the Chicken and Veggies
Add shredded chicken, diced celery, red onion, and chopped parsley or dill. Mix until everything is evenly coated with the creamy dressing.
Step 3: Chill
Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 15–30 minutes to allow the flavors to blend and the salad to firm up.
Step 4: Assemble the Sandwich
Spoon the chilled chicken salad onto toasted bread and layer with lettuce and tomato slices if desired. Serve immediately.
Leftovers & Storage
- Store leftover chicken salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Do not freeze, as cottage cheese and veggies may become watery upon thawing.
- Keep sandwich components (bread, lettuce, tomato) separate for best texture when storing.
- Use leftovers for wraps, salads, or stuffed in pita pockets for a second meal.
FAQ
1. Can I use canned chicken instead of cooked or rotisserie chicken?
Yes, canned chicken works in a pinch. Just drain it well and break it up with a fork before mixing. The texture will be softer, but the flavors still come through.
2. Is this chicken salad good for weight loss?
It can be. The cottage cheese adds lean protein and keeps the fat lower than traditional mayo-based recipes. Pair it with whole grain bread or greens for a balanced, filling meal.
3. Can I make it without celery or onion?
Yes. If you or your kids don’t like them, leave them out or swap for milder options like grated carrot or chopped cucumber.
4. What type of cottage cheese should I use?
Full-fat gives the creamiest texture, but low-fat works fine. Blend it if you prefer a smoother, more uniform texture in your salad.
5. How long can this stay in the fridge?
Up to 4 days in an airtight container. For best texture, don’t mix in lettuce or tomatoes until you’re ready to eat.
Creamy, Fresh, and Meal Prep-Friendly
This Cottage Cheese Chicken Salad Sandwich proves that healthy and delicious don’t have to be opposites.
With its creamy texture, zesty flavor, and nutritious ingredients, it’s a lunch you can feel good about—whether you’re at your desk, on the go, or feeding your family. It’s quick, customizable, and full of real, whole-food ingredients that satisfy.