Low Carb Jalapeno Popper Chicken Salad (Printable)

Zesty, creamy chicken salad with jalapeños, cottage cheese, and crispy bacon for a satisfying low-carb meal.

# What goes in:

→ Proteins

01 - 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced
02 - 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
03 - 1 cup low-fat cottage cheese

→ Vegetables

04 - 2–3 fresh jalapeños, seeded and finely diced
05 - 1/2 cup celery, finely chopped
06 - 1/2 cup green onions, thinly sliced

→ Dairy & Dressing

07 - 1/4 cup mayonnaise
08 - 2 oz cream cheese, softened
09 - 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese

→ Seasonings

10 - 1/2 tsp garlic powder
11 - 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
12 - Salt and black pepper, to taste
13 - 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

# Directions:

01 - In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, bacon, jalapeños, celery, green onions, and cheddar cheese.
02 - In a separate small bowl, whisk together the cottage cheese, cream cheese, mayonnaise, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.
03 - Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and stir until evenly coated.
04 - Taste and adjust seasonings as desired.
05 - Garnish with fresh parsley if using. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving for best flavor. Serve chilled, on lettuce leaves or as a filling for lettuce wraps.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • You get all those spicy, creamy jalapeño popper flavors without any of the guilt or heavy breading
  • The cottage cheese creates an unbelievably smooth texture while sneaking in extra protein
  • It keeps beautifully in the fridge, making those busy weekday lunches actually something to look forward to
02 -
  • The cottage cheese might look slightly lumpy in the dressing, but once it melds with the cream cheese and mayonnaise, it becomes incredibly smooth
  • This salad actually tastes better the next day, so don't be afraid to make it ahead and let those flavors develop
03 -
  • Use a food processor to quickly blend the cottage cheese, cream cheese, and mayonnaise until completely smooth for the most luxurious texture
  • If your chicken salad seems too thick after refrigerating, stir in a teaspoon of Greek yogurt or a splash of lime juice to brighten it back up

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