Creating Protein Cottage Cheese Chicken Salad is simple. Follow these steps for a delicious result:

1. Cook the Chicken: If using raw chicken, season it with salt and pepper. Cook in a skillet over medium heat for about 20 minutes or until fully cooked. Allow to cool before dicing or shredding.
2. Prepare the Veggies: While the chicken cooks, wash and dice the celery, bell pepper, and red onion.
3. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, cottage cheese, diced celery, bell pepper, red onion, and parsley.
4. Make the Dressing: In a separate small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise (if using), Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper.
5. Mix Everything Together: Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and stir until everything is well combined.
6. Taste and Adjust: Taste the salad and adjust the seasoning as needed. You can add more salt, pepper, or vinegar to suit your taste.
7. Chill (Optional): If time allows, refrigerate the salad for about 30 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
8. Serve: Portion the salad into bowls or plates for serving.