Name: Delicious Buffalo Chicken Salad That's High-Protein Goodness
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 4 cups Rotisserie Chicken (finely shredded); 1 cup Plain Greek Yogurt (or dairy-free yogurt); 1/4 cup Mayonnaise (use low-fat or vegan if desired); 1/2 cup Buffalo Hot Sauce (Frank’s RedHot recommended); 1/2 cup Celery (diced); 1/2 cup Carrot (shredded); 1/4 cup Red Onion (finely diced); 1/4 cup Chives (thinly sliced); 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder; 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika; 1 teaspoon Cayenne Pepper (optional, adjust to taste); 1/2 cup Blue Cheese Crumbles (optional, omit for dairy-free)

As I stood in my kitchen, the tangy aroma of buffalo sauce filled the air, instantly transporting me to game day gatherings and backyard barbecues. If you’re looking for a delicious way to bring that spirit home while staying healthy, let me introduce you to my Quick & Creamy High-Protein Buffalo Chicken Salad. This vibrant dish combines tender shredded rotisserie chicken and creamy Greek yogurt with just the right kick of heat, making it perfect for any lunch or light dinner. It’s not just a delight for your taste buds; with its high-protein content and effortless 15-minute prep time, this salad is a lifesaver for busy days. Fancy a spicy twist on your routine meals? Scroll down to discover how simple it is to whip up this irresistible salad!

Why is this Buffalo Chicken Salad a must-try?

Bold flavors: This salad packs a punch with a perfect balance of spicy buffalo sauce and creamy Greek yogurt.

High-protein goodness: Each bite is loaded with protein from rotisserie chicken and Greek yogurt, ensuring you’re fueled and satisfied.

Quick and easy: Whip it up in just 15 minutes! It’s a simple, hassle-free meal prep solution.

Customizable options: Swap in different proteins or veggies to fit your taste. Whether you prefer shredded turkey or a vegan tofu version, the possibilities are endless!

Crowd-pleaser: This buffalo chicken salad is a hit for parties, lunchboxes, or light dinners—sure to impress friends and family alike.

Looking for more delicious meal ideas? Check out my Chicken Salad Discover or give a try to the flavorful Dragon Chicken!

Buffalo Chicken Salad Ingredients

For the Salad
• Rotisserie Chicken – provides protein and a savory base; use about 4 cups of finely shredded meat from a store-bought rotisserie chicken.
• Plain Greek Yogurt – adds creaminess and protein; substitute with a dairy-free yogurt for a vegan option.
• Mayonnaise – contributes to creamy texture; can use low-fat or vegan mayo for healthier choices.
• Buffalo Hot Sauce – provides spice and flavor; Frank’s RedHot is recommended for authenticity, but any favorite brand works.
• Celery (diced) – adds crunch and freshness, balancing the richness of the dressing.
• Carrot (shredded) – enhances texture and sweetness, making every bite a delight.
• Red Onion (finely diced) – offers a sharp flavor contrast that brightens the salad.
• Chives (thinly sliced) – adds a pop of color and freshness; you can substitute with green onions if desired.
• Garlic Powder – provides a subtle flavor enhancement that rounds out the taste.
• Smoked Paprika – adds a hint of smokiness; it’s an excellent complement to the buffalo flavor.
• Cayenne Pepper (optional) – increases heat level; adjust according to your spicy preference.
• Blue Cheese Crumbles (optional) – adds a classic buffalo flavor; omit for a dairy-free version of this buffalo chicken salad.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Quick & Creamy High-Protein Buffalo Chicken Salad

Step 1: Prepare Chicken
Start by removing the skin and bones from the rotisserie chicken. Using a fork or your hands, shred the chicken into fine pieces or pulse it in a food processor until finely shredded, ensuring a tender texture. This should take about 5 minutes. Set the shredded chicken aside in a large mixing bowl for the Buffalo Chicken Salad.

Step 2: Make Dressing
In a medium bowl, combine 1 cup of plain Greek yogurt, 1/4 cup of mayonnaise, and 1/2 cup of buffalo hot sauce. Add 1 teaspoon of garlic powder and 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika, blending until the mixture is smooth and creamy. The dressing should have a balanced flavor, both tangy and spicy, which will beautifully coat the chicken once it’s mixed.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients
In the bowl with your shredded chicken, add 1/2 cup of diced celery, 1/2 cup of shredded carrot, 1/4 cup of finely diced red onion, and 1/4 cup of sliced chives. If you’re using blue cheese crumbles, fold them into the mixture. Gently toss everything together with a spatula or spoon until the ingredients are evenly coated in the dressing, ensuring each bite of your Buffalo Chicken Salad is flavorful.

Step 4: Serve or Chill
You can serve the Buffalo Chicken Salad immediately in lettuce wraps or on whole-grain bread. Alternatively, for more developed flavors, cover and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time allows the ingredients to meld beautifully, enhancing the flavor. When you’re ready to serve, taste and adjust seasoning if necessary, adding more buffalo sauce for extra kick!

Make Ahead Options

These Quick & Creamy High-Protein Buffalo Chicken Salads are ideal for those busy weeknights and meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the dressing—combining Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, and buffalo sauce—up to 3 days in advance, just be sure to store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its freshness. Additionally, you can shred the rotisserie chicken a day ahead, keeping it tightly covered to stay moist. When you’re ready to enjoy your salad, simply mix the prepped chicken and veggies with the dressing, and serve immediately or allow it to chill for 30 minutes to enhance the flavors. With these make-ahead strategies, you’ll have a delicious, protein-packed meal ready in no time!

Expert Tips for Buffalo Chicken Salad

• Chill for Flavor: Allow the salad to sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving. This helps meld the flavors for a more delicious Buffalo Chicken Salad.

• Avoid Mushing: When shredding the rotisserie chicken, pulse it in a food processor just until finely shredded. Over-processing can result in a mushy texture.

• Customize Heat: Don’t forget to adjust the amount of buffalo hot sauce based on your spice preference. Start with less if you’re unsure, and add more!

• Add Crunch: Mix in additional crunchy veggies like bell peppers or cucumbers for extra texture and flavor in your salad.

• Fresh Garnish: Consider garnishing with extra chives or a sprinkle of blue cheese just before serving to enhance the presentation and flavor.

Storage Tips for Buffalo Chicken Salad

Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days to maintain freshness. Stir well before serving to restore the creamy texture and blend flavors.

Room Temperature: Avoid leaving the Buffalo Chicken Salad out for more than 2 hours to prevent spoilage. If serving at a gathering, consider placing the bowl over ice to keep it cool.

Freezer: Freezing is not recommended due to the creamy dressing, which can separate and become unappetizing once thawed.

Reheating: Serve cold or let it come to room temperature before serving; reheating is unnecessary and will alter the salad’s ideal consistency.

Buffalo Chicken Salad Variations

Unlock the full potential of your buffalo chicken salad by customizing it to suit your taste and dietary needs!

Vegetarian Alternative: Swap rotisserie chicken for shredded tofu or jackfruit to create a delightful vegan version. The flavors of the dressing work beautifully with both options.
Gluten-Free Friendly: Simply ensure that all condiments, like the hot sauce and mayonnaise, are labeled gluten-free. Enjoy your salad worry-free with this simple adjustment!
Extra Crunch: Add chopped walnuts or pecans for a surprising, nutty crunch. They provide a delightful contrast to the creamy texture of the salad and up the flavor game!
Spicy Kick: Incorporate chopped jalapeños or a splash of sriracha into the dressing for an extra kick of heat. Spice lovers will appreciate this bold twist in every bite.
Herb Infusion: Experiment by mixing in fresh herbs like dill or cilantro to amp up the freshness. A sprinkle of herbs can elevate this dish to a whole new level of flavor.
Creamy Dream: For a richer taste, fold in a dollop of creamy avocado or use avocado mayonnaise as a base instead of regular mayo. Avocado brings a delightful creaminess without compromising health.
Savory Additions: Toss in some diced pickles or relish for a tangy, zesty note. This provides an unexpected flavor burst, making the salad even more enjoyable!
Fresh Veggie Boost: Substitute or add colorful veggies like bell peppers, corn, or snap peas to enhance the nutritional profile while introducing varied textures. These additions balance the richness of the base ingredients so perfectly.

Looking for more tasty ideas? Discover a fabulous Chicken Salad Discover or give a whirl to my vibrant Corn Chicken Rice for delightful meal prep!

What to Serve with Quick & Creamy High-Protein Buffalo Chicken Salad

Elevate your meal with delightful sides that complement the savory and spicy notes of this creamy salad.

Crispy Sweet Potato Fries: Their natural sweetness pairs wonderfully with the spicy flavor of buffalo chicken, creating a harmonious balance.
Fresh Garden Salad: A light, crisp salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers offers a refreshing contrast to the creamy density of the buffalo chicken.
Air-Fried Zucchini Chips: These crunchy bites add a satisfying texture while maintaining a healthy profile—a perfect match for your protein-packed salad.
Quinoa Bowl: Served warm, quinoa adds a nutty flavor and lightness that enhances the salad’s bold attributes. A gentle drizzle of olive oil can tie everything together beautifully.
Garlic Breadsticks: Soft, chewy breadsticks with a hint of garlic provide a comforting companion to soak up any leftover dressing, rounding out your meal.
Sparkling Lemonade: This refreshing drink’s citrus notes brighten each bite, making it a delightful pairing for the salad’s rich flavors.
Fruit Salad: A colorful bowl of seasonal fruits adds a burst of sweetness, finishing the meal on a light and cheerful note.
Creamy Coleslaw: Its tangy crunch offsets the heat of buffalo sauce and offers a satisfying element to your plate, completing the experience of flavors.
Cheesy Cauliflower Mash: Rich and creamy, this dish offers a comforting side that echoes the salad’s smooth texture while providing a savory contrast.
Chocolate Avocado Mousse: For dessert, this velvety treat is both decadent and healthy, serving as a sweet ending to a spicy meal.

Buffalo Chicken Salad Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best rotisserie chicken for this salad?
Absolutely! When selecting a rotisserie chicken, look for one with golden, crispy skin and minimal dark spots, indicating freshness. A chicken that feels warm to the touch is a good sign it’s just been cooked, ensuring moist and flavorful meat for your salad.

How should I store leftovers of the Buffalo Chicken Salad?
For the best results, transfer any leftovers into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. It’s crucial to stir the salad well before serving to revive that lovely creamy texture and blend the flavors, as they may separate slightly after storage.

Can I freeze this Buffalo Chicken Salad?
No, I advise against freezing this salad due to the creamy dressing. Freezing can cause the yogurt and mayonnaise to separate, leading to an undesirable texture once thawed. Instead, enjoy it fresh or refrigerated!

What if my chicken turns out mushy?
To prevent mushiness, be sure to pulse the rotisserie chicken in your food processor just until finely shredded, not until it’s pureed. If you prefer hand-shredding, use forks to pull apart the chicken into bite-sized pieces. This preserves the texture beautifully!

Is there a dairy-free option for the Greek yogurt in the salad?
Certainly! You can substitute plain Greek yogurt with a plant-based yogurt alternative, such as almond or coconut yogurt, which maintains the creamy consistency. Just make sure to choose a variety that’s unsweetened to keep the flavor profile balanced.

Can I make this Buffalo Chicken Salad spicier?
Very! If you enjoy extra heat, consider adding more buffalo sauce or sprinkling in extra cayenne pepper to taste. You can also mix in finely chopped jalapeños or use a hotter hot sauce to kick it up a notch. The more the merrier when it comes to flavors!