Buffalo Chicken Salad

This Buffalo Chicken Salad combines the spicy kick of buffalo sauce with creamy mayonnaise and Greek yogurt, making it a perfect blend of bold flavors and creamy textures. With crunchy vegetables and optional blue cheese crumbles, it’s an ideal dish for a quick lunch, dinner, or meal prep. Whether you enjoy it on a sandwich, with crackers, or just as a salad, this dish is sure to satisfy your cravings!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Buffalo Chicken Salad is a great way to enjoy the bold, spicy flavors of buffalo chicken without all the heaviness of fried wings. The combination of creamy mayo and Greek yogurt in the dressing creates a rich, tangy base that perfectly balances the heat from the buffalo sauce. With crunchy carrots, celery, and green onions, this salad offers a satisfying mix of textures. Add blue cheese for an extra indulgent touch or keep it light for a healthier option. It’s an easy, versatile dish that can be served in various ways!

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise

• 1/4 cup Greek yogurt

• 1/4 cup buffalo sauce

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder

• 1/8 teaspoon dried dill

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 3 cups cooked, shredded chicken

• 1/2 cup shredded carrot

• 1/2 cup sliced celery

• 2 green onions, sliced

• Blue cheese crumbles for serving (optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. In a large bowl, combine the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, buffalo sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried dill. Add salt and pepper to taste and stir to combine.

2. Add the shredded chicken, carrot, celery, and green onions to the bowl and stir to coat everything in the sauce.

3. If desired, top with blue cheese crumbles for extra flavor.

4. Serve as a sandwich filling, with crackers, or enjoy the salad on its own!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6 servings

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Total Time: 15 minutes

Variations

• Make it Spicy: Add extra buffalo sauce or a dash of cayenne pepper to make the salad spicier.

• Healthier Version: Swap the mayonnaise for a lighter version or use a mix of avocado and Greek yogurt for a healthier twist.

• Add Veggies: Try adding cucumber, cherry tomatoes, or avocado for more variety and texture.

• Make it Dairy-Free: Skip the blue cheese crumbles and use a dairy-free yogurt and mayo alternative to make the salad dairy-free.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: If you prefer to eat the salad warm, you can heat it up in the microwave for a minute or two. However, it’s best enjoyed cold.

FAQs

1. Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken?

Yes, using rotisserie chicken is a great time-saving option. Simply shred the chicken and mix it into the salad for an easy meal.

2. Can I use ranch dressing instead of the Greek yogurt-mayo dressing?

Yes, ranch dressing will work if you prefer a different flavor profile. Just make sure to adjust the amount of buffalo sauce to maintain the right balance of heat.

3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the salad a day or two in advance. Just keep the blue cheese crumbles and any additional veggies separate until you’re ready to serve.

4. How can I make this recipe more filling?

Serve it on a bed of greens, as a wrap, or with a side of roasted potatoes or sweet potato fries for a more complete meal.

5. Can I add nuts or seeds to this salad?

Yes, adding sunflower seeds, chopped walnuts, or almonds can give the salad a nice crunch and additional flavor.

6. How can I make this recipe spicier?

For more heat, add extra buffalo sauce or some sliced jalapeños to the salad. A sprinkle of cayenne pepper can also intensify the spice.

7. How long can I store leftover Buffalo Chicken Salad?

It will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator. Make sure to store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh.

8. Can I serve this salad as a dip?

Yes, this Buffalo Chicken Salad can be served as a dip with crackers or tortilla chips for a fun appetizer.

9. Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just make sure to cook and shred it before using it in the salad.

10. Can I use a different type of cheese instead of blue cheese?

Yes, you can use feta, goat cheese, or shredded cheddar cheese if you prefer a different flavor.

Conclusion

Buffalo Chicken Salad is the perfect dish for when you want something flavorful, filling, and easy to make. With the spicy buffalo sauce and creamy dressing, it’s a great way to enjoy a healthy lunch or dinner with plenty of flavor. Whether you’re eating it on its own, in a sandwich, or as a dip, this salad will become a go-to for any meal!

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