Name: High Protein Buffalo Chicken Salad (Healthy, Easy)
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-489320H21M32S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 cups shredded chicken; 2 stalks celery, finely chopped; 4 stalks green onion, finely chopped; 1 cup plain Greek yogurt; ⅓ cup Buffalo sauce; ½ large lemon, juice of; 1 tsp garlic powder; ½ tsp paprika; ¼ tsp kosher salt (more to taste); ¼ tsp black pepper

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If you’re looking for a delicious and nutritious lunch idea that’s quick to whip up, then this High Protein Buffalo Chicken Salad (Healthy, Easy) is just for you! It combines the irresistible flavor of buffalo chicken with wholesome ingredients, making it a fantastic choice for busy weeknights or casual family gatherings. Whether you’re using leftover chicken or grabbing a rotisserie bird from the store, this salad is ready in just 10 minutes!

This recipe is not only tasty but also packed with protein, so it will keep you satisfied throughout your day. You can enjoy it with chips or crackers, dip fresh veggies like celery and carrots into it, or turn it into a sandwich or wrap — the options are endless! 😊

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have a satisfying meal ready in no time.
Family-Friendly: Everyone loves the bold flavors of buffalo chicken, making this salad a hit with both kids and adults.
High in Protein: Packed with shredded chicken and Greek yogurt, this salad helps fuel your day!
Versatile Options: Enjoy it as a salad, dip, or sandwich — perfect for any occasion!
Meal Prep Friendly: Make a batch ahead of time and have healthy lunches ready to go all week.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll find that these ingredients are simple and wholesome! Each one plays an important role in creating the rich flavor profile of this High Protein Buffalo Chicken Salad (Healthy, Easy). Let’s gather what you need:

4 cups shredded chicken
2 stalks celery, finely chopped (about ½ cup)
4 stalks green onion, finely chopped
1 cup plain Greek yogurt
⅓ cup Buffalo sauce
½ large lemon, juice of
1 tsp garlic powder
½ tsp paprika
¼ tsp kosher salt (more to taste)
¼ tsp black pepper

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun variations to switch things up:

Swap the protein: Use shredded turkey or even chickpeas if you want a vegetarian option!
Change the heat level: Adjust the amount of buffalo sauce according to your spice preference—more for extra kick!
Add some crunch: Toss in some chopped bell peppers or cucumbers for extra freshness.
Make it creamy: Mix in a bit of avocado for added creaminess and healthy fats.

How to Make High Protein Buffalo Chicken Salad (Healthy, Easy)

Step 1: Shred Your Chicken

Start by shredding your chicken using two forks or a hand mixer. This step is crucial because the finer the shred, the better it will mix with all those delicious flavors. If you’re using rotisserie chicken, it’s super convenient!

Step 2: Chop Your Veggies

Finely chop your celery and green onions. The crunch from the celery adds texture while the green onions bring a slight bite that complements the spicy buffalo flavor.

Step 3: Mix Everything Together

In a large bowl, combine your shredded chicken with Greek yogurt, buffalo sauce, celery, green onions, lemon juice, garlic powder, paprika, kosher salt, and black pepper. Stir everything until well mixed! This step is where all those flavors meld together beautifully.

Step 4: Taste and Adjust

Give your salad a taste! If you love spice, feel free to add more buffalo sauce. Or if you want it creamier, simply fold in more Greek yogurt until you reach your desired consistency.

And there you have it — your high protein Buffalo Chicken Salad is ready to be enjoyed! Whether you’re diving into this dish right away or prepping for later in the week, I know you’re going to love every bite!

Pro Tips for Making High Protein Buffalo Chicken Salad (Healthy, Easy)

Making the perfect Buffalo Chicken Salad can be a breeze with a few handy tips! Here are some ideas to elevate your dish:

Use Rotisserie Chicken: This time-saver allows you to skip cooking and shredding, making meal prep super quick without sacrificing flavor.
Adjust the Heat: If you’re a spice lover, don’t hesitate to increase the amount of buffalo sauce. It enhances the flavor and gives it that signature kick!
Chill Before Serving: Letting your salad chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes before serving allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a more delicious dish.
Experiment with Add-ins: Feel free to toss in other ingredients like diced bell peppers or shredded carrots for added crunch and nutrition!
Make it Ahead of Time: This salad keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making it a fantastic option for meal prep or quick lunches throughout the week.

How to Serve High Protein Buffalo Chicken Salad (Healthy, Easy)

This Buffalo Chicken Salad is not only delicious but also versatile! Whether you’re enjoying it as a light lunch or making it part of a fun gathering, there are plenty of creative ways to serve it.

Garnishes

Fresh Herbs: Chopped parsley or cilantro can add a fresh pop of color and flavor on top of your salad.
Sliced Avocado: Creamy avocado slices provide a rich texture that balances out the spiciness of the buffalo sauce beautifully.

Side Dishes

Veggie Sticks: Crunchy celery and carrot sticks are perfect pairings that complement the salad while adding extra vitamins.
Whole Grain Crackers: These add a delightful crunch and make for an easy way to scoop up your salad!
Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cherry tomatoes and cucumbers can round out your meal with additional protein and fiber.
Sweet Potato Fries: These sweet treats offer a comforting side that’s healthy and satisfying alongside your spicy chicken salad.

Enjoy crafting your high protein Buffalo Chicken Salad experience! It’s perfect for any occasion. 😊

Make Ahead and Storage

This High Protein Buffalo Chicken Salad is perfect for meal prep! It keeps well in the fridge, making it a great option for busy weekdays when you need something quick and nutritious.

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
It can be kept for up to 3-4 days without losing flavor or texture.
For best results, keep additional buffalo sauce on hand to stir in before serving if desired.

Freezing

While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze this salad if needed.
Place the salad in a freezer-safe container and store for up to 3 months.
Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before using, but note that the texture may change slightly.

Reheating

This salad is typically served cold, but if you’d like it warm, gently heat it in the microwave at a low power setting.
Stir occasionally and check frequently to avoid overheating.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe!

Can I make High Protein Buffalo Chicken Salad (Healthy, Easy) with rotisserie chicken?

Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut that adds flavor and saves time. Just shred it and mix it into the other ingredients as directed.

How can I customize my High Protein Buffalo Chicken Salad (Healthy, Easy)?

Feel free to add your favorite veggies like bell peppers or carrots for extra crunch. You can also adjust the spice level by varying the buffalo sauce to suit your taste!

Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes! This High Protein Buffalo Chicken Salad is gluten-free as long as you choose gluten-free buffalo sauce. Enjoy it with gluten-free crackers or on lettuce wraps!

Can I use alternatives to Greek yogurt?

Certainly! If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try using vegan yogurt or mashed avocado as a creamy base.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this High Protein Buffalo Chicken Salad as much as I do! It’s not only easy and delicious but also packed with nutrients that keep you feeling full and satisfied. Whether it’s for lunch or a quick dinner, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Happy cooking!