Low Carb Blackberry Cottage Cheese

This blackberry cottage cheese chicken salad is my answer to cooling off with light protein-packed meals on hot days and it is now my go-to when I want something both refreshing and satisfying. Swapping in cottage cheese instead of mayo keeps it creamy with extra texture set off by juicy blackberries and crunchy walnuts.

I was craving a lighter lunch one summer afternoon and tossed this together with what I had — I loved the unexpected burst of fruity sweetness with every bite and it has since made many appearances at picnics and packed lunches.

Ingredients

• Chicken breasts: choose plump chicken for juiciness and fast cooking
• Cottage cheese: creamy and rich use full fat for the best flavor
• Mayonnaise: brings a familiar tangy note go for a high quality brand
• Celery stalks: for that signature fresh crunch select firm pale green stalks
• Green onions: provide a mild onion bite always choose ones with crispy green tops
• Blackberries: juicy and bursting with flavor choose berries that are plump and deep purple black
• Salt and pepper: classic seasoning to brighten the salad I use freshly cracked black pepper
• Chopped walnuts: for crunch with a nutty taste and heartiness toast lightly for more aroma
• Keto bread (optional): for serving if you want an easy low carb sandwich

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Chicken:

Cook chicken breasts your way baking boiling or grilling both work well Cool slightly then shred or chop into bite sized pieces so every spoonful gets an even mix

Chop Vegetables:

Dice celery stalks into small even cubes and thinly slice green onions This keeps every bite uniform and helps distribute the flavors

Mix Salad Base:

In a large bowl combine shredded chicken celery green onions blackberries and walnuts This is where the color and texture begin to come together

Add Creamy Elements:

Gently fold in cottage cheese and mayonnaise Mix thoroughly but try not to smash the blackberries I find using a large fork or silicone spatula helps blend everything evenly

Season Well:

Sprinkle in salt and generous black pepper Taste for seasoning and adjust to your liking

Serve Up:

Enjoy on its own or pile onto slices of toasted keto bread for a low carb sandwich I have served this wrapped in lettuce leaves too for a crisp wrap option

Pin

Blackberries are my favorite ingredient here and they remind me of picking wild berries with my grandmother in late summer Almost every time I make this I think of her stained fingertips and the irresistible tartness of a just picked berry

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days If you plan to make ahead you can add the blackberries just before serving to keep them plump and bright Rather than freezing which may affect the blackberries texture this salad is at its best chilled in the fridge

Ingredient Substitutions

Swap walnuts for pecans or sliced almonds for a different nutty twist You can use labneh or strained Greek yogurt instead of cottage cheese if you prefer a tangier salad and turkey breast works just as well as chicken in this recipe

Serving Suggestions

Pile the salad onto crisp romaine leaves for easy lettuce wraps or scoop it onto sliced cucumbers and radishes for a colorful appetizer I often pack this into meal prep containers as a protein rich grab and go lunch

Recipe Story

Chicken salad was a staple at our family gatherings and blackberry bushes lined our backyard fence When I wanted a nostalgic dish with a low carb spin I replaced much of the mayo with cottage cheese The result was so bright and creamy it quickly became my summer staple recipe

Recipe Questions & Answers

→ Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking my own?

Yes, rotisserie or leftover cooked chicken works perfectly. Shred it and follow the instructions as written.

→ What can I substitute for blackberries?

Blueberries, strawberries, or even grapes provide a similar sweetness and acidity if you don't have blackberries.

→ Is cottage cheese necessary, or can I use all mayo?

You can substitute all mayonnaise or try Greek yogurt for a lighter dressing with a similar creamy consistency.

→ What can I serve with this salad?

It pairs well over greens, stuffed in lettuce wraps, or served on keto-friendly bread for a hearty meal.

→ How long does this salad stay fresh in the fridge?

Store covered in the refrigerator for up to three days. Stir before serving as juices may settle at the bottom.

→ Are nuts required, and can I use a substitute?

Chopped walnuts add crunch, but you can omit them or use pecans or almonds instead based on your preference.