Buffalo chicken has always had a special place on my table whether it’s game night, summer lunch prep, or just a craving for something bold yet wholesome. This Easy Buffalo Chicken Salad was born one weekend when I had leftover shredded chicken and a serious need for something quick, spicy, and satisfying. It’s creamy from Greek yogurt, crunchy from celery, and gets that kick from buffalo sauce that wakes up your taste buds in the best way.
This recipe is perfect for busy days, picnics, or meal prep. Whether wrapped in lettuce, served on toast, or eaten straight from the bowl (yes, I’ve done it), it’s a guaranteed hit. In this article, you’ll find how to make it effortlessly, how to customize it, and ideas for serving it up with flair. Let’s get spicy.
Easy Buffalo Chicken Salad: A Spicy & Healthy Favorite You’ll Crave
Table of Contents
My Story & Love for Buffalo Chicken Salad
The recipe that saved my Sunday meal prep
Let me paint the scene: it was a lazy Sunday, my fridge had leftover shredded chicken, some celery, and green onions. I was craving something light but with punch—and then it hit me. Why not create a healthier spin on buffalo chicken salad using Greek yogurt instead of mayo? The result? A flavor-packed, creamy salad that quickly became a go-to.
This easy buffalo chicken salad is exactly that—easy. It uses just a handful of everyday ingredients like buffalo sauce, lemon juice, and simple seasonings. I used nonfat Greek yogurt, which gives it a creamy texture without the heaviness. It’s been my go-to ever since that day, especially for work lunches and family potlucks.
If you love dishes like my Franks RedHot Buffalo Chicken Dip or crave healthier options like Low Carb Chicken Casserole, this salad will be right up your alley.
Why it’s not just another chicken salad
Sure, chicken salad is a classic. But this version? It’s got that spicy, tangy flair that makes you pause mid-bite. Buffalo sauce adds depth while Greek yogurt keeps it guilt-free. The crunch from celery and green onions creates balance, and a touch of lemon brightens everything up.
What I really love is the flexibility—eat it in lettuce cups, on multigrain toast, or even stuffed into avocados. It holds up well in the fridge and somehow gets even better the next day.
I’ve even taken this to summer barbecues, where it outshone the usual sides like pasta salad and coleslaw. It’s a hit with kids, husbands, and even the skeptical salad-eaters. If you’re looking for a high-protein, flavor-rich meal that’s light and meal-prep friendly, look no further than this easy buffalo chicken salad.
What You Need to Make This Easy Buffalo Chicken Salad
Key ingredients that bring it all together
What makes this buffalo chicken salad easy isn’t just the short ingredient list—it’s that each item plays a flavorful role. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Shredded chicken – Pre-cooked rotisserie works great, or use leftover grilled chicken.
- Celery & green onions – For crunch and a pop of sharp, fresh flavor.
- Nonfat Greek yogurt – Creamy without the heaviness of mayo.
- Buffalo sauce – Use your favorite brand; I lean toward medium heat.
- Lemon juice – Adds brightness to balance the spice.
- Garlic powder, paprika, salt & pepper – Simple pantry spices that round it out.
This salad comes together in under 10 minutes, making it a total winner for busy weeknights or high-protein lunch preps.
I’ve used the same core ingredients in other chicken meals like my Mexican Rotisserie Chicken Tostadas when I needed to repurpose leftovers creatively. The salad works beautifully in wraps, pitas, or even over a fresh green bed if you’re going low-carb.
Easy swaps & flavor boosters
What I love most is how adaptable this recipe is. Prefer heat? Try adding a few dashes of cayenne or swap in a hotter buffalo sauce. Need dairy-free? Use a vegan yogurt alternative. Want it even richer? Mix in a touch of cream cheese or ranch dressing.
For extra protein, mix in hard-boiled eggs or chickpeas. For crunch, top with shredded carrots or roasted chickpeas. You could even scoop this salad into bell pepper halves for a fun presentation.
And if you’re into creative chicken salads, don’t miss my Blackberry Basil Grilled Chicken Salad—it’s proof that chicken doesn’t have to be boring.
By keeping it simple and flavorful, you’ll always have something satisfying and fresh on hand, ready to grab and go.
How to Serve & Prep Buffalo Chicken Salad Like a Pro
Creative ways to serve it
This salad isn’t just versatile—it’s a meal-prep dream that can transform into a dozen different meals. One of my favorite ways to enjoy it is in lettuce wraps. The crisp leaves offer a refreshing contrast to the creamy buffalo flavor, and they make perfect low-carb handhelds.
Looking for something heartier? Pile it on toasted sourdough or whole grain bread. Add sliced avocado and baby spinach, and you’ve got a spicy, satisfying sandwich that feels gourmet. For a picnic or quick snack, scoop it into small tortilla cups or spoon it into celery sticks.
During summer, I love pairing this salad with a chilled side like my High Protein Pasta Salad—especially when we’re serving a crowd. It balances the spice and turns a quick lunch into a full meal without the fuss.
For brunches or light dinners, you could even use this salad to top a Chicken Caesar Flatbread. A warm, crisp base with cold buffalo chicken salad on top? It’s an unexpected but delicious combo.
Make-ahead tips for busy days
Buffalo chicken salad is a make-ahead marvel. It stores well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. I recommend mixing everything except the lemon juice until ready to serve—it keeps the flavors fresh and the texture snappy.
If you’re planning for the week, make a double batch. Use half for wraps or bowls early in the week and freeze the rest of the shredded chicken for later. You can thaw it quickly and remix with fresh sauce and yogurt when needed.
Whether you’re meal-prepping for lunch or whipping up a quick dinner, this salad saves time and delivers bold flavor every time.
Make It Yours – Variations on Easy Buffalo Chicken Salad
Add your personal twist
The beauty of this easy buffalo chicken salad lies in its flexibility. You can take the basic formula and completely tailor it to your taste or dietary needs. Want it even heartier? Stir in cooked quinoa or farro for a grain bowl spin. Need a vegetarian option? Swap the chicken with canned chickpeas or even cooked cauliflower florets.
For spice lovers, top with sliced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne. If you like it creamy and indulgent, add a bit of shredded cheddar or a spoonful of ranch dressing. I’ve even folded in diced apples for sweetness and crunch—it’s surprisingly good!
Inspired by how I jazzed up my Buffalo Cauliflower Bites, you can layer this salad with new textures or serve it warm for a twist. It’s great in bowls with rice, or even inside a grilled cheese sandwich if you’re feeling bold.
Pair it with something cool and refreshing
Because this salad brings some heat, it pairs beautifully with chilled, mild sides. Think cucumber salads, light fruit dishes, or even a refreshing smoothie. One of my favorite combos is this salad next to my Salsa Verde Chicken Rice Skillet—you get spicy, savory, and zesty all on one plate.
You could also serve it with raw veggie dippers like cucumber slices, carrots, or bell pepper sticks for a healthy party platter. Or make mini buffalo salad sliders with Hawaiian rolls for gatherings. It’s easy to prep, easy to eat, and always a hit.
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Easy Buffalo Chicken Salad: A Spicy & Healthy Favorite You’ll Crave
- Total Time: 10 mins
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This easy buffalo chicken salad is creamy, spicy, and made with Greek yogurt for a healthier twist on a classic. Great for meal prep or quick lunches.
Ingredients
2 cups shredded chicken
2 stalks celery, finely chopped (about ½ cup)
4 stalks green onion, finely chopped
1 cup nonfat Greek yogurt
⅓ cup Buffalo sauce
Juice of ½ large lemon
1 tsp garlic powder
½ tsp paprika
¼ tsp salt (more to taste)
¼ tsp black pepper
Instructions
1. Add shredded chicken, celery, and green onions to a large mixing bowl.
2. In a separate bowl, mix Greek yogurt, buffalo sauce, lemon juice, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour the sauce over the chicken mixture and stir until evenly combined.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
5. Serve immediately or chill in the fridge for 30 minutes for best flavor.
Notes
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Great for lettuce wraps, sandwiches, or low-carb bowls.
Add more buffalo sauce for extra heat.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 0 mins
- Category: Salad
- Method: No Cook
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
FAQs: Quick Answers for Curious Cooks
1. Can I make buffalo chicken salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can make it up to 4 days in advance. Just keep it refrigerated in an airtight container and stir before serving.
2. What’s the best buffalo sauce to use?
Any store-bought brand you like works, but I prefer classic-style sauces like Frank’s RedHot for bold, balanced flavor.
3. Can I freeze buffalo chicken salad?
I don’t recommend freezing the entire salad due to the yogurt base. However, you can freeze the shredded chicken and make a fresh batch when ready.
4. What’s a good substitute for Greek yogurt?
You can use regular plain yogurt, sour cream, or a dairy-free yogurt alternative.
Conclusion: A Spicy Staple You’ll Make on Repeat
This easy buffalo chicken salad isn’t just about convenience—it’s about flavor that excites, texture that satisfies, and a meal that fits into your real life. Whether you’re planning lunches, feeding a crowd, or just trying to eat better without boring yourself, this salad is the recipe to keep on rotation.
It’s quick to prepare, full of protein, and endlessly adaptable. From lettuce wraps to sandwiches and bowls, you’ll find new ways to enjoy it every time. Add this one to your favorites—it’s spicy, simple, and seriously good.
