Ingredients
10 ounces cooked chicken breast (about 2 ½ cups, chopped or shredded)
¾ cup cottage cheese
¼ cup onion, diced or grated (about ¼ small onion)
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon honey
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon garlic powder
¼ teaspoon paprika
⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper
Dash of nutmeg (optional)
¼ teaspoon black or white pepper (optional)
½ cup celery, diced
Instructions
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Chop or shred the cooked chicken and place it in a large mixing bowl.
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In a mini food processor or blender, combine the cottage cheese, onion, lemon juice, honey, salt, garlic powder, paprika, cayenne, nutmeg, and pepper (if using). Blend until smooth, about 30–45 seconds.
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Pour the cottage cheese mixture over the chicken and stir until fully coated.
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Stir in the diced celery.
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Cover and refrigerate for at least one hour to allow the flavors to meld.
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Taste and adjust seasoning as needed with additional lemon juice, salt, pepper, or spices. Serve chilled.
Notes
- Texture Tip: Stir with a fork for the best consistency; it helps coat the chicken evenly without mashing it.
- Too Salty or Strong Onion Flavor: Adjust by adding more chicken or cottage cheese.
- Consistency Adjustments: If too thin, pat dry with paper towels and add more chicken. If too thick, blend in more cottage cheese or a splash of lemon juice.
- Make-Ahead: Can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the fridge up to five days. Not suitable for freezing.
- Optional Add-ins: Grapes, apples, dried cranberries, nuts, or fresh herbs can be added to enhance flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 min