High Protein Buffalo Chicken Salad Recipe

If you crave bold flavors and nourishing meals, this High Protein Buffalo Chicken Salad is the answer to your lunch and meal prep dreams. Packed with juicy shredded chicken, creamy Greek yogurt, and an irresistible kick of buffalo sauce, it’s a true flavor bomb that will make your tastebuds and muscles cheer. Fresh celery and green onions add a pleasant crunch and brightness, making every bite a happy one. Whether you need a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying protein-packed lunch, this recipe brings the heat and energy you want with none of the fuss.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The true magic of this High Protein Buffalo Chicken Salad comes from its simple, wholesome ingredients and the way each one shines in the final bowl. Every element plays a key role, whether it’s lending creaminess, crunch, or a pop of color, delivering a salad that’s both nutritious and totally craveworthy.

• Shredded chicken: Offers lean, tender protein that soaks up all those spicy buffalo flavors.
• Celery: Adds fresh crunch and keeps things light and lively with each bite.
• Green onion: Brings a gentle oniony kick and some extra color throughout the salad.
• Plain Greek yogurt: Creamy, tangy, and protein-rich, it replaces heavy mayo with extra nutrition.
• Buffalo sauce: Packs a classic, zesty heat that gives this chicken salad its spicy personality.
• Lemon juice: Adds brightness and balances out the richness of the other ingredients.
• Garlic powder: Makes everything a little more savory and delicious.
• Paprika: Offers mild warmth and a gorgeous hint of smoky color.
• Kosher salt: Helps bring out all those layered flavors—taste and adjust as you go.
• Black pepper: Adds a subtle, peppy bite to round things out.

How to Make High Protein Buffalo Chicken Salad

Step 1: Prep Your Chicken and Veggies

Start by shredding your cooked chicken—this can be leftover rotisserie chicken, poached, or baked chicken breasts. Use two forks for a rustic shred or a hand mixer for effortless, fluffy chicken pieces. Next, finely chop your celery and green onions. The smaller the chop, the more evenly the crunch will be distributed throughout your High Protein Buffalo Chicken Salad.

Step 2: Mix the Base

In a large mixing bowl, stir together your plain Greek yogurt, Buffalo sauce, and fresh lemon juice until completely smooth. Add in the garlic powder, paprika, kosher salt, and black pepper. This mixture becomes the creamy, spicy, and tangy dressing that transforms simple ingredients into flavor-packed magic.

Step 3: Combine Everything

To your bowl of dressing, add the shredded chicken, chopped celery, and green onion. Use a sturdy spatula or spoon to thoroughly mix until every bite of chicken is coated and flecked with green and orange. Taste and adjust the salt, pepper, or Buffalo sauce if you dare to go spicier! Your High Protein Buffalo Chicken Salad is now ready to enjoy.

Step 4: Chill and Serve

For the best texture and flavor, cover and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes. This resting time lets everything meld and the flavors to deepen. When you’re ready to serve, give it one last stir, and bring out your favorite garnishes or sides (check below for genius serving ideas!).

How to Serve High Protein Buffalo Chicken Salad

Garnishes

Top your salad with a sprinkle of extra chopped green onion, crumbles of blue cheese, or a little more freshly cracked black pepper for restaurant-worthy flair. For extra color and crunch, add a handful of microgreens or an extra stalk of sliced celery right before serving.

Side Dishes

This salad loves good company! Pile it high onto crisp lettuce leaves for easy wraps, or serve on toasted whole grain bread for a seriously satisfying sandwich. Pair it with crunchy carrot sticks, cucumber slices, or a cool pasta salad to offset the spicy kick from your High Protein Buffalo Chicken Salad.

Creative Ways to Present

Transform your High Protein Buffalo Chicken Salad into an appetizer by scooping it into endive leaves, mini bell pepper halves, or even as a topper for rice cakes. For party spreads, try filling halved avocados or using it as a protein boost for a big, leafy green bowl—let your imagination run wild!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover High Protein Buffalo Chicken Salad keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Store it in an airtight container to lock in freshness and prevent it from absorbing other flavors from the fridge. Give it a quick stir before digging back in, as some separation is totally normal.

Freezing

While you technically can freeze this salad, it’s not recommended—the creamy Greek yogurt can become watery and the celery loses its crunch upon thawing. For best texture, enjoy it fresh or refrigerated rather than frozen.

Reheating

This dish truly shines cold or at room temperature, so there’s no need to reheat. If you prefer it slightly warmer (for sandwiches or melts), briefly microwave a portion, but keep a close eye so the creamy dressing doesn’t break.

FAQs

Can I use canned chicken instead of shredded chicken?

Yes, you can use canned chicken in a pinch! Drain it well and use a fork to break up the pieces—just note the texture and flavor may be a little different than freshly cooked, shredded chicken.

Is there a dairy-free substitute for Greek yogurt?

Absolutely! Substitute thick, unsweetened coconut yogurt or any plain, dairy-free yogurt alternative for a similar creamy texture. Just check the protein content if you’re aiming for a high-protein meal.

Can I make this High Protein Buffalo Chicken Salad spicier or milder?

Definitely. Adjust the amount of Buffalo sauce and Greek yogurt to control the heat. For more spice, go heavier on the Buffalo sauce or add a pinch of cayenne. For a milder version, use less sauce and a bit more yogurt.

What’s the best way to shred chicken quickly?

For hassle-free shredding, use a hand mixer on low speed with warm, cooked chicken. It only takes a minute and gives perfect, fluffy shreds with zero arm workout!

Can I serve this salad warm?

While traditional High Protein Buffalo Chicken Salad is best chilled, you can certainly serve it slightly warm if you just made it or want to use it in a melty wrap or stuffed baked potato. Just don’t overheat, or the yogurt base may separate.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week or whipping up a quick lunch, High Protein Buffalo Chicken Salad delivers unbeatable flavor, satisfying protein, and total ease in every bowl. It’s an instant favorite you’ll come back to every time the craving for something speedy, bold, and healthy strikes—try it for yourself and let this spicy, creamy, crunchy salad become your new go-to!

Print