If you’re anything like me, there are days when you just want something quick, flavorful, and easy to throw together but without compromising on taste. This Buffalo Chicken Salad is exactly that. It’s got all the spicy, creamy goodness of buffalo wings, but in a healthier, low-carb form that you can eat without the guilt.
I created this recipe for those days when I’m scrambling for a fast lunch, and it’s become my go-to. The best part? It’s ready in just 5 minutes. No cooking required (unless you’re prepping chicken ahead of time), and it’s perfect for meal prep. You can make a batch at the start of the week, and you’ve got lunch covered for days.
Whether you spoon it into crisp lettuce wraps, pile it onto a sandwich, or serve it over a fresh salad, this buffalo chicken salad hits the spot. With 30 grams of protein per serving, it’ll keep you feeling full and satisfied, no matter how hectic your day gets.
Let’s get into it. Ready to try a buffalo chicken recipe that’ll actually make your life easier? Here we go
Table of Contents
Ingredients
Here’s the rundown of what you’ll need to whip up this Buffalo Chicken Salad nothing too fancy, I promise:
- 6 ½ ounces cooked chicken breast (I like using leftover chicken from last night’s dinner, but rotisserie or even canned chicken work just as well if you’re in a pinch.)
- ¼ cup red onion (finely chopped for that little kick of flavor)
- ½ celery stalk (chopped, and don’t forget the celery leaves for a nice garnish)
- 1 baby carrot (chopped, or toss in more if you want some extra crunch)
- ¼ cup mayo (I use regular mayo, but Greek yogurt is a great swap if you want something lighter)
- ¼ cup Frank’s hot sauce (or any hot sauce you like, depending on how spicy you want it)
- 6 baby romaine lettuce leaves (perfect for wrapping, but any lettuce will do)
- Blue cheese dressing (optional, but if you’re a fan, this takes it up a notch)
Substitutions & Tips:
- Chicken: If you don’t have cooked chicken on hand, go with canned chicken or rotisserie for a quick shortcut.
- Mayo: Greek yogurt is a great alternative if you’re looking for something tangier and healthier.
- Hot Sauce: Frank’s is classic, but don’t be afraid to experiment with your favorite hot sauce.
How to Serve (Enhancements)
One of the best things about this Buffalo Chicken Salad is how versatile it is. You can enjoy it in so many different ways, whether you’re in the mood for a light snack or a more filling meal. Here are some of my favorite ways to serve it:
- Lettuce Wraps: This is probably my top choice. The baby romaine lettuce leaves are the perfect size to wrap up all the chicken salad goodness. If you can’t find baby romaine, butter lettuce works just as well.
- Sandwich: If you’re craving something a little more substantial, pop the buffalo chicken salad between two slices of your favorite bread. It’s simple, satisfying, and super tasty.
- Wrap: You can also stuff it into a whole wheat tortilla for a quick, handheld lunch. It’s easy to pack for a day out or to bring to work.
- Salad: For a lighter option, serve the chicken salad on a bed of chopped romaine lettuce or mixed greens. Drizzle with extra blue cheese dressing if you’re into that creamy finish.
Flavor Enhancements:
- Extra Toppings: Add some sliced avocado or fresh cilantro for an extra layer of flavor. If you like it spicier, throw in some sliced jalapeños.
- Side Ideas: A side of roasted veggies or a pickle on the side balances out the rich, spicy flavor and adds a refreshing crunch.
No matter how you serve it, you’re in for a quick, satisfying meal. Plus, you can always switch things up based on what you have at home or what you’re in the mood for
Meal Prep Tips
This Buffalo Chicken Salad is a meal prep dream come true. If you’re like me and always trying to find ways to make the week a little easier, this recipe will save you tons of time. Here’s how I make it work for busy days:
- Make It Ahead: You can easily double or triple this recipe and store it in the fridge for a few days. It’ll stay fresh for about 3 to 4 days, so it’s perfect for packing lunches for the week. Just scoop it out and go—no need to cook every day!
- Keep Lettuce Fresh: If you’re planning on using lettuce wraps, I recommend storing the salad and the lettuce separately. The lettuce can get soggy if it sits in the salad too long, so just keep them in different containers until you’re ready to eat.
- Switch It Up: Feel free to change how you serve it throughout the week. One day it could be lettuce wraps, the next a sandwich, or even a salad with extra blue cheese dressing. A little variety never hurt anyone!
Storage Tip: If you’re using mayo in the recipe, try to eat it within 3 days to keep the texture just right. If you want it to last a little longer, Greek yogurt or a lighter mayo will hold up better.
Nutritional Info
This Buffalo Chicken Salad isn’t just tasty it’s packed with the good stuff to keep you feeling full and fueled. Here’s the breakdown:
- Calories: 359
- Protein: 30g (lots of muscle-building goodness!)
- Carbs: 4g (nice and low)
- Fat: 24g (most of it from healthy sources)
- Fiber: 1g
It’s a solid choice if you’re watching your carbs or looking to up your protein intake. The chicken’s got the protein you need, and the creamy mayo mixed with hot sauce adds that spicy, satisfying kick. With just 4 grams of carbs, it’s perfect if you’re following a low-carb or keto diet.
Not only is it super easy to make, but it’s also a meal that works for your goals. Whether you’re prepping for the week or just need a quick lunch, this salad fits right in.
Instructions
Making this Buffalo Chicken Salad is as easy as it gets! Here’s how you’ll put it together:
- Prepare the Chicken:
- If you’re using leftovers, you’re all set! But if you need to cook the chicken, simply toss it in a slow cooker with water and let it cook on low for about 4 hours, then shred it. Alternatively, grab a rotisserie chicken or use canned chicken for a super quick option.
- Chop the Veggies:
- Grab a mini food processor or knife and chop the red onion, celery, and baby carrot. The mini processor speeds this up, but feel free to do it by hand if you don’t mind a bit more prep time!
- Mix It All Together:
- In a large bowl, combine your shredded chicken, chopped veggies, mayo, and hot sauce. Mix it all up, and taste test! Add more hot sauce if you want it spicier, or more mayo for extra creaminess.
- Serve:
- For lettuce wraps: Spoon the buffalo chicken mixture into the lettuce leaves, garnish with extra red onion or celery leaves, and maybe a drizzle of extra hot sauce.
- You can also serve it as a sandwich, in a wrap, or over a saladwhichever way you like it best
More Buffalo Chicken Recipes You’ll Love
If you’re a fan of buffalo chicken, you’re in luck! Here are some more delicious recipes to keep the spicy, creamy goodness flowing:
- Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Nuggets: Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside these are a quick, guilt-free snack or meal.
- Buffalo Chicken Meatballs: A fun twist on the classic, packed with flavor and perfect for dipping.
- Lighter Buffalo Chicken Dip: A lighter version of the beloved dip, still rich and creamy, but with fewer calories.
- Buffalo Chicken Egg Rolls: Crispy egg rolls stuffed with that classic buffalo chicken flavor. Perfect for a game day snack or a fun dinner.
- Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Zucchini Skins: A healthy, low-carb alternative to potato skins, topped with buffalo chicken and baked to crispy perfection.
These recipes are perfect if you want to keep the buffalo chicken vibe going. Whether you need appetizers, snacks, or a new take on a meal, there’s something for everyone
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use a different type of chicken for this recipe?
Definitely! If you don’t have cooked chicken breast on hand, rotisserie chicken, canned chicken, or even chicken thighs all work great. Just make sure it’s cooked and shredded, and you’re good to go.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, this salad is perfect for meal prep! You can make a big batch and keep it in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. If you’re planning to use lettuce wraps, just store the salad and lettuce separately so they stay fresh.
What can I use instead of mayo?
If you’re not into mayo, you can swap it out for Greek yogurt, avocado mayo, or even sour cream. These will give you a similar creamy texture but with a lighter touch.
How can I make the salad spicier?
If you like it hot, just add more hot sauce to taste. You can also throw in some sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper for that extra punch.
Can I use a different type of lettuce?
For sure! While baby romaine is perfect for wraps, you can use whatever lettuce you prefer, like butter lettuce, iceberg, or even spinach.
Conclusion
This Buffalo Chicken Salad is the kind of recipe that makes your life easier and your taste buds happier. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch, prepping for the week, or craving something spicy and creamy, this salad has got you covered. It’s packed with protein, low in carbs, and can be enjoyed in a variety of ways from lettuce wraps to sandwiches or even a salad.
The best part? You can make it ahead of time and have a flavorful meal ready to go whenever you need it. Plus, it’s versatile enough to switch up based on what you have on hand or your mood. You really can’t go wrong!
Give it a try and see just how easy and delicious meal prep can be. And if you love it, I’d love to hear how you served it or any tweaks you made to suit your taste. Don’t forget to drop a comment and let me know how it turned out happy cooking