A Salty, Spicy Delight
Ever tasted a salad so good it makes you forget you’re eating healthy? The High-Protein Buffalo Chicken Salad is that dish! With its spicy kick from the buffalo sauce and a creamy texture that just invites you to dig in, this salad transforms your lunch game in mere minutes. And the best part? It’s quick, loaded with protein, and oh-so-satisfying — perfect for any day when you need a little extra zing in your step!
Why Make This Recipe
Who wouldn’t love an easy, one-bowl wonder like this?
- Minimal cleanup means more time for Netflix, and let’s be real, who doesn’t want that?
- It’s packed with flavor and protein, making it a guilt-free indulgence the whole family will rave about. Even your picky eater might dive in after the first bite!
- Did I mention how simple it is? Seriously, if you can shred chicken, you’re halfway there.
Ingredients
You don’t need fancy stuff — just these basics!
- 4 cups rotisserie chicken (finely shredded)
- ½ cup plain Greek yogurt
- ⅓ cup mayonnaise
- ½ cup buffalo hot sauce
- ⅔ cup diced celery
- ⅔ cup shredded carrot
- ⅓ cup finely diced red onion
- ⅓ cup chives (thinly sliced)
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- Salt (to taste)
- ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
- ⅓ cup crumbled blue cheese (optional)
Directions
- Remove the skin and bones from the rotisserie chicken. Roughly chop about 4 cups of the meat, then pulse in a food processor 3 to 4 times until finely shredded but not mushy. Transfer to a large mixing bowl.
- In the same bowl, add Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, and buffalo sauce. Sprinkle in garlic powder, smoked paprika, and the optional cayenne pepper. Whisk until smooth and creamy.
- Add the shredded chicken, diced celery, shredded carrot, diced red onion, and chives. If using, fold in the blue cheese or keep it on the side for topping later. Mix well until everything is evenly coated.
- Enjoy immediately, or cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let those flavors develop. Garnish with extra chives and crumbled blue cheese right before serving.
How to Make High-Protein Buffalo Chicken Salad (Overview)
Making this salad is a breeze! Start by shredding that rotisserie chicken like a pro. Then, mix your creamy dressing ingredients in the same bowl — less mess, yes please! Add all the crunchy veggies, and feel free to toss in some blue cheese if you’re feeling fancy. Trust me, letting it sit for a bit really lets the flavors pop, so patience is key. Pro tip: Don’t rush the chilling time; those flavors deserve a good mingle!
How to Serve High-Protein Buffalo Chicken Salad
Serve this vibrant salad as a standalone dish, or pile it high on toasted bread for a delectable sandwich. Picture crispy lettuce, bright veggies, and creamy dressing all coming together for a crunchy, savory bite that’s downright irresistible. Add some slices of avocado or a sprinkle of nuts for an additional pop of color and texture. The aroma alone will have everyone gathering around the table!
How to Store High-Protein Buffalo Chicken Salad
This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you’re making it ahead, just make sure to keep the toppings separate until serving to maintain that delightful crunch. Planning to freeze it? Go ahead, but it’s best enjoyed fresh for maximum flavor.
Tips to Make High-Protein Buffalo Chicken Salad
Here are some quick insider tricks:
- Switch up the sauce: Try different types of hot sauce for a fun twist!
- Yogurt swap: Use avocado or cashew cream for a dairy-free version.
- Make it crunchy: Add toasted nuts or seeds for an extra texture boost!
- Plan ahead: Make a bigger batch and serve it throughout the week for easy meal prep.
Variation
Looking for a way to mix things up? Try adding chopped pickles for a tangy crunch or even some roasted corn for a sweet bite. If you want to go fully vegan, swap the chicken for shredded jackfruit and use a plant-based yogurt and mayo. The flavor will still be off the charts!
FAQs
1. Can I use canned chicken instead of rotisserie?
Absolutely! Just make sure to drain it well and shred it before mixing.
2. How can I make it spicier?
Add extra buffalo sauce or toss in some fresh jalapeños for a fiery kick.
3. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Definitely! Just keep the toppings separate until you’re ready to serve to keep things fresh and crunchy.
📌 Pin this recipe for your next cozy dinner night!
High-Protein Buffalo Chicken Salad
Ingredients
Method
- Remove the skin and bones from the rotisserie chicken. Roughly chop about 4 cups of the meat, then pulse in a food processor 3 to 4 times until finely shredded but not mushy.
- Transfer the shredded chicken to a large mixing bowl.
- In the same bowl, add Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, and buffalo sauce. Sprinkle in garlic powder, smoked paprika, and the optional cayenne pepper. Whisk until smooth and creamy.
- Add the shredded chicken, diced celery, shredded carrot, diced red onion, and chives. If using, fold in the blue cheese or keep it on the side for topping later. Mix well until everything is evenly coated.
- Enjoy immediately, or cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let those flavors develop.
- Garnish with extra chives and crumbled blue cheese right before serving.