High Protein Buffalo Chicken Salad (Healthy, Easy) Recipe
Introduction
This High Protein Buffalo Chicken Salad is a flavorful and healthy dish perfect for a quick lunch or light dinner. Packed with shredded chicken and a zesty buffalo sauce, it offers a spicy kick balanced by creamy Greek yogurt.
Ingredients
- 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
Instructions
- Step 1: Shred the cooked chicken using two forks or a hand mixer until finely pulled. Finely chop the celery and green onions.
- Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, Greek yogurt, buffalo sauce, celery, green onions, lemon juice, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well until all ingredients are evenly mixed.
Tips & Variations
- If you prefer a spicier salad, increase the amount of buffalo sauce and reduce the Greek yogurt to maintain the right consistency.
- For added crunch, serve the salad on a bed of fresh lettuce or with whole grain crackers.
- Use rotisserie chicken for a quick and easy shortcut.
Storage
Store the buffalo chicken salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir well before serving and enjoy chilled or at room temperature. It is best eaten fresh to maintain the creamy texture and flavor.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use a different protein instead of chicken?
Yes, cooked turkey or shredded tofu can be used as alternatives, adjusting the cooking and shredding method accordingly.
Is Greek yogurt a necessary ingredient?
Greek yogurt adds creaminess and protein while balancing the spice. You can substitute it with mayonnaise or sour cream, but it may alter the nutritional profile.
PrintHigh Protein Buffalo Chicken Salad (Healthy, Easy) Recipe
A healthy and easy High Protein Buffalo Chicken Salad featuring shredded chicken mixed with celery, green onions, Greek yogurt, and a spicy buffalo sauce dressing. This flavorful salad is perfect for a protein-packed lunch or light dinner, delivering a tangy kick and creamy texture without mayonnaise.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes (assuming pre-cooked chicken)
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Ingredients
Chicken and Vegetables
- 4 cups shredded chicken
- 2 stalks celery, finely chopped (about ½ cup)
- 4 stalks green onion, finely chopped
Dressing and Seasoning
- 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
Instructions
- Shred and chop: Shred your cooked chicken using two forks or a hand mixer until it reaches a fine, stringy texture. Finely chop the celery stalks and green onions to add crispness and flavor to the salad.
- Mix ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, Greek yogurt, buffalo hot sauce, chopped celery, chopped green onions, lemon juice, garlic powder, paprika, kosher salt, and black pepper. Stir thoroughly to ensure that all ingredients are evenly distributed and coated with the buffalo yogurt dressing.
- Adjust spice level: If you prefer your salad spicier, increase the amount of buffalo sauce and reduce the Greek yogurt slightly to maintain the right consistency and flavor balance.
Notes
- For a chunkier texture, shred the chicken less finely.
- Use low-fat or full-fat Greek yogurt depending on your preference for creaminess and fat content.
- Serve the salad chilled for the best flavor, or allow it to rest in the fridge for 30 minutes before serving.
- This salad pairs well with leafy greens, in sandwiches, or eaten on its own as a protein-rich snack.
Keywords: buffalo chicken salad, high protein salad, healthy buffalo chicken, Greek yogurt dressing, easy chicken salad
