If you’re searching for a dish that perfectly balances creaminess, crunch, tang, and just the right amount of heat, this Buffalo Chicken Salad Recipe should be at the top of your list. Loaded with tender shredded chicken, zippy buffalo sauce, and tangy blue cheese crumbles all brought together by a creamy Greek yogurt base, it makes both lunchtimes and easy weeknight dinners a lot more exciting. Whether you pile it onto your favorite sandwich bread or spoon it generously over crisp lettuce, this Buffalo Chicken Salad Recipe is a crave-worthy classic with endless possibilities!

Buffalo Chicken Salad Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this salad is its simple, well-chosen ingredients – each one bringing a unique flavor, texture, or color to the bowl. Don’t be tempted to swap out too many things; these star players work together for a reason!

Cooked shredded chicken: Use freshly boiled, rotisserie, or even leftover chicken for unbeatable tenderness in every bite.
Nonfat Greek yogurt: This creates a tangy, creamy base without the heaviness of mayo, letting the other flavors shine.
Fresh parsley: Don’t skip this! It adds a pop of herby freshness and color that lifts all the flavors.
Celery: That iconic crunch is essential – it also lends subtle bitterness and keeps things light.
Garlic powder: Just a little infuses the whole salad with savory warmth, tying everything together.
Buffalo sauce: The soul of this Buffalo Chicken Salad Recipe, bringing that signature tangy heat you crave.
Blue cheese crumbles (optional): Creamy, salty bites turn this salad into an indulgence – perfect for blue cheese fans!

How to Make Buffalo Chicken Salad Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

Begin by bringing a pot of water to a rolling boil. Gently add your chicken (breasts or thighs both work), then simmer for 10 to 14 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and super tender. If you have an Instant Pot or slow cooker, those methods work beautifully, too! Want to save time? Grab a ready-to-use rotisserie chicken from the store for extra flavor and convenience.

Step 2: Shred the Chicken

Once the chicken is cooked and cooled slightly, use two forks to pull it apart into lovely, bite-sized shreds. You can do this right in the pot or transfer it to a mixing bowl. Shredding instead of chopping truly lets the dressing soak into every nook and cranny, making the Buffalo Chicken Salad Recipe extra flavorful.

Step 3: Chop and Prep the Veggies

While the chicken is cooking, knock out your veggie prep! Finely dice the celery for that perfect crunch, and finely chop fresh parsley for bursts of flavor and color. Little touches like these make a big taste difference in every forkful.

Step 4: Make the Dressing

In a large mixing bowl, add the nonfat Greek yogurt, buffalo sauce, garlic powder, and parsley. Stir everything until well combined, creating a creamy, tangy dressing that forms the heart of this Buffalo Chicken Salad Recipe.

Step 5: Mix It All Together

Add the shredded chicken, chopped celery, and (if you’re feeling fancy) blue cheese crumbles right into your bowl of dressing. Using a spatula, gently toss everything together until every bite is perfectly coated. The mixture should be creamy with pops of color from the parsley and those signature orange flecks from the buffalo sauce.

How to Serve Buffalo Chicken Salad Recipe

Garnishes

Top your Buffalo Chicken Salad with a sprinkle of extra parsley or green onion for freshness, a drizzle of extra buffalo sauce for zing, and a few extra blue cheese crumbles for that classic tang. If you want a touch more crunch, throw on a few chopped celery leaves or toasted breadcrumbs.

Side Dishes

This Buffalo Chicken Salad Recipe pairs so well with crisp green salads, classic potato chips, or crunchy veggie sticks (think carrots, cucumbers, and bell peppers). For something heartier, serve it alongside sweet potato fries or a cool cucumber salad to balance that spicy kick.

Creative Ways to Present

Let your creativity shine! Pile this salad high onto toasted buns to make game-day sliders, spoon it into crisp lettuce cups for a low-carb lunch, stuff it inside an avocado half, or use it as a hearty topping for baked sweet potatoes. Buffalo Chicken Salad Recipe can transform an average meal into something special.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Buffalo Chicken Salad Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors just keep melding and getting better, making tomorrow’s lunch even more irresistible.

Freezing

While it’s theoretically possible to freeze this salad, the texture of the Greek yogurt and celery will change after thawing. For best results, freeze just the cooked, shredded chicken—then assemble the salad fresh when you’re ready to enjoy it.

Reheating

This salad is designed to be served cold or at room temperature. If you’ve stored your salad in the fridge, just give it a gentle stir and let it sit for a few minutes before serving so the flavors bloom. No reheating required!

FAQs

Can I make this Buffalo Chicken Salad Recipe dairy-free?

Yes! Simply swap the Greek yogurt for a non-dairy yogurt and omit or use a dairy-free blue cheese substitute. You’ll still get all that tangy, spicy goodness.

What’s the best chicken to use?

Whatever is easiest for you! Boiled chicken breast is classic, but rotisserie chicken adds great flavor and saves time. Even leftover grilled chicken works if you shred it well.

How spicy is the Buffalo Chicken Salad Recipe?

It’s as spicy as you make it! Start with the recommended amount of buffalo sauce, then add a touch more for extra heat — or use a milder sauce if you prefer it gentle.

Can I add other veggies?

Absolutely. Diced carrots, chopped red onion, or even halved cherry tomatoes can add more crunch and color. Just keep the proportions balanced so the dressing still coats every bite.

How long can I keep Buffalo Chicken Salad Recipe in the fridge?

Stored in an airtight container, it’ll stay fresh and delicious for up to three days. After that, the celery might lose its crunch, but the flavor will still be solid.

Final Thoughts

With its bold flavors, easy prep, and endless serving options, this Buffalo Chicken Salad Recipe will brighten your lunchtime routine and wow anyone who tries it. Give it a go, and you’ll see just how fun (and delicious) homemade salads can be!