Easy Buffalo Chicken Salad (High-Protein, Healthy)
This Easy Buffalo Chicken Salad is spicy, creamy, and packed with protein—perfect for a quick lunch, high-protein snack, or low-carb meal prep. It combines tender shredded chicken with tangy buffalo sauce and Greek yogurt for a lightened-up twist on a classic. Serve it in lettuce wraps, on a sandwich, or over greens for a satisfying and flavorful option that keeps you full and energized.
🛒 Ingredients
2 cups cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie or grilled)
⅓ cup plain Greek yogurt
2 tablespoons buffalo sauce (like Frank’s Red Hot)
1 tablespoon mayonnaise (optional, for extra creaminess)
1 celery stalk, finely chopped
2 tablespoons chopped green onions
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and black pepper to taste
Optional toppings: crumbled blue cheese or avocado slices
🔄 Substitutions
Chicken: Use canned chicken, rotisserie, or leftover grilled chicken
Greek yogurt: Sub with cottage cheese, sour cream, or a dairy-free alternative
Buffalo sauce: Use your favorite hot sauce or a mild wing sauce for less heat
Mayo: Skip it for a lighter version or use avocado instead
Add-ins: Swap celery for cucumber or red onion for extra crunch
👨🍳 How to
In a large mixing bowl, combine Greek yogurt, buffalo sauce, mayo (if using), garlic powder, salt, and pepper
Stir in the shredded chicken, chopped celery, and green onions until fully coated and creamy
Taste and adjust seasoning or spice level to your preference
Chill for 15–20 minutes if prepping ahead or serve immediately
Scoop into lettuce wraps, pile on whole grain toast, or add to a salad bowl
🧀 Mix-ins
Crumbled blue cheese or shredded cheddar for bold flavor
Diced avocado for healthy fats
Chopped pickles or banana peppers for tang
Shredded carrots for color and crunch
Hard-boiled eggs for added protein
✅ Recipe Tips
Use finely shredded chicken for the best texture and dressing absorption
Let the salad chill before serving to deepen flavor
Double the batch for meal prep and use throughout the week
Mix with a bit more yogurt if you prefer a saucier texture
📦 Storage
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days
Great for make-ahead lunches and protein-packed snacks
Not recommended for freezing due to the dairy base
Pack separately from lettuce or bread to prevent sogginess
🌀 Recipe Variations
Buffalo Chicken Wrap: Wrap in a tortilla with lettuce and cheese
Buffalo Chicken Bowl: Serve over quinoa, rice, or greens with ranch drizzle
Buffalo Chicken Sandwich: Stack on a bun with tomato and crunchy lettuce
Keto Version: Serve in romaine boats or with celery sticks for dipping
Dairy-Free: Use avocado and a splash of olive oil in place of yogurt
❓ FAQs
Is buffalo chicken salad healthy? Yes—especially when made with Greek yogurt, it’s high in protein and lower in fat than traditional versions
Can I make it spicier? Absolutely—add more hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper
Can I use canned chicken? Yes, just drain and shred well for the best consistency
What should I serve it with? Great with whole grain crackers, in wraps, on toast, or over salad greens
This Easy Buffalo Chicken Salad is the perfect mix of creamy, spicy, and satisfying—a healthy lunch that never gets boring!
