Easy Buffalo Chicken Salad (High-Protein)

Buffalo Chicken Salad is a quick, healthy, and high-protein meal that’s perfect for lunches, meal prep, or a light dinner. With a spicy buffalo kick balanced by creamy Greek yogurt, this dish is a fantastic way to use up leftover chicken. It’s packed with flavor, simple to make, and loaded with nutrients to keep you fueled throughout the day.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in just minutes, it’s perfect for busy days.
• Healthy and High-Protein: Made with lean chicken and Greek yogurt for a nutritious, satisfying dish.
• Customizable: Adjust the spice level or mix in extra veggies to suit your taste.
• Great for Meal Prep: Keeps well in the fridge, making it a go-to for weekly lunches.
• Versatile: Serve it in wraps, sandwiches, or over greens for a variety of meal options.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 4 cups shredded chicken (rotisserie or cooked chicken breasts)
• ⅓ cup buffalo sauce
• 1 cup Greek yogurt
• 2 stalks celery, diced
• 4 stalks green onion, chopped
• ½ large lemon, juice of
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon salt

Directions

1. Prepare the Chicken: Shred or chop the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces and place it in a large mixing bowl.
2. Mix the Sauce: In a separate bowl, combine Greek yogurt, buffalo sauce, lemon juice, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir until smooth.
3. Add the Veggies: Toss the diced celery and chopped green onions into the mixing bowl with the chicken.
4. Combine: Pour the buffalo yogurt sauce over the chicken and veggies. Mix thoroughly until everything is evenly coated.
5. Serve: Enjoy the salad on its own, as a wrap, or over a bed of greens.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 8
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 10 minutes

Variations

• Spicier Option: Add extra buffalo sauce or a dash of hot sauce for more heat.
• Cheesy Kick: Mix in some crumbled blue cheese or shredded cheddar for extra flavor.
• Dairy-Free: Use a dairy-free yogurt alternative to make the dish dairy-free.
• Veggie Boost: Add diced bell peppers, shredded carrots, or chopped cucumbers for more crunch.
• Keto-Friendly: Serve in lettuce wraps or over low-carb greens like spinach or arugula.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Reheating: This salad is best enjoyed cold, but if you prefer it warm, heat it gently in a skillet over low heat. Avoid microwaving to prevent the yogurt from separating.

FAQs

1. Can I use canned chicken for this recipe?

Yes, canned chicken works as a quick and convenient option. Just drain it well before mixing.

2. What’s the best buffalo sauce to use?

Frank’s RedHot Buffalo Sauce is a classic choice, but you can use any brand you prefer.

3. Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Absolutely! It’s perfect for meal prep and tastes even better after the flavors meld in the fridge.

4. How can I make this salad creamier?

Add a bit more Greek yogurt or a tablespoon of mayonnaise for extra creaminess.

5. What’s a good substitute for Greek yogurt?

Sour cream or a plain non-dairy yogurt are great substitutes.

6. Can I make this salad vegetarian?

Yes, substitute the chicken with chickpeas, diced tofu, or tempeh for a vegetarian version.

7. Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients are naturally gluten-free. Just ensure your buffalo sauce is certified gluten-free if needed.

8. Can I freeze this salad?

This salad is not ideal for freezing due to the yogurt-based dressing, which can separate when thawed.

9. What can I serve this salad with?

Serve it in wraps, sandwiches, on crackers, or over a bed of greens for a healthy meal.

10. How do I adjust the spice level?

For less heat, use a mild buffalo sauce or reduce the amount. For more heat, add extra buffalo sauce or a dash of cayenne pepper.

Conclusion

Easy Buffalo Chicken Salad is a high-protein, healthy dish that’s perfect for quick lunches or meal prep. With its zesty buffalo flavor, creamy yogurt-based dressing, and crunchy veggies, it’s a satisfying and versatile option for any meal. Customize it to suit your preferences and enjoy a delicious, wholesome dish that’s as easy to make as it is to love!

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