Easy Buffalo Chicken Salad Recipe

There’s nothing quite like the zesty kick of buffalo chicken, and when paired with crisp greens and a creamy dressing, it transforms into a refreshing yet indulgent salad. This Easy Buffalo Chicken Salad is a perfect balance of spicy, tangy, and crunchy, making it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights, meal prep, or even a light yet satisfying lunch.

this Recipes

I discovered this recipe while trying to recreate a restaurant favorite at home. It turned out even better than expected—lighter, fresher, and completely customizable. Trust me, once you try it, this salad will become a staple in your rotation.

Why You’ll Love This Easy Buffalo Chicken Salad

Get ready for a salad that’s anything but boring! This Easy Buffalo Chicken Salad combines bold flavors with wholesome ingredients for a dish you’ll crave time and time again.

• Quick and simple: Ready in under 20 minutes, this salad is perfect for those hectic days when you need something delicious fast.
• Healthy and satisfying: Packed with protein and fiber, this salad leaves you feeling full and energized without weighing you down.
• Customizable: Adjust the spice level, switch up the greens, or add extra toppings to make it exactly how you like.
• Meal-prep friendly: Prep the components ahead of time for an easy grab-and-go option during the week.

Let’s dive into the ingredients that make this salad a standout!

Ingredients Notes

This recipe uses simple ingredients that come together for an explosion of flavor and texture.

• Cooked chicken: Rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut here, but grilled, baked, or pan-seared chicken breasts work just as well. Shred or dice it for easy mixing.
• Buffalo sauce: Choose your favorite brand for the classic tangy heat. If you prefer milder spice, mix it with melted butter or ranch dressing.
• Mixed greens: A blend of romaine, spinach, and arugula provides a perfect balance of crispness and flavor. You can also use your favorite greens or whatever you have on hand.
• Crunchy vegetables: Diced celery, shredded carrots, and chopped bell peppers add a satisfying crunch and complement the buffalo sauce’s heat.
• Blue cheese or ranch dressing: These creamy dressings cool down the spice and tie everything together. Pick your favorite or offer both as options.
• Optional toppings: Crumbled blue cheese, sliced avocado, or crispy tortilla strips elevate the salad with extra texture and flavor.

No special equipment is needed—just a large bowl for tossing and a whisk for the dressing if you’re making it from scratch.

How To Make Easy Buffalo Chicken Salad

This Easy Buffalo Chicken Salad comes together in just a few simple steps:

1. Prepare the chicken: Toss your cooked chicken with the buffalo sauce in a large bowl until well coated. Adjust the sauce amount based on your preferred spice level.
2. Assemble the greens: In a separate large serving bowl, layer your mixed greens. Add the diced celery, shredded carrots, and bell peppers for a colorful base.
3. Add the chicken: Arrange the buffalo chicken on top of the greens, spreading it out evenly.
4. Drizzle the dressing: Use your favorite blue cheese or ranch dressing, either drizzled over the top or served on the side for dipping.
5. Finish with toppings: Sprinkle the salad with crumbled blue cheese, sliced avocado, or tortilla strips if desired. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or green onions for a fresh, vibrant touch.

And just like that, your salad is ready to serve!

Storage Options

This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare components ahead of time for quick assembly:

• Chicken: Store the buffalo chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat it gently in the microwave or on the stovetop if desired.
• Greens and veggies: Wash and chop your greens and vegetables, then store them in a separate container or zip-top bag lined with a paper towel to absorb excess moisture.
• Dressing: Keep your dressing in a small jar or container in the fridge for up to a week. Shake or stir before using.

Avoid assembling the salad until you’re ready to eat to keep the greens crisp and fresh.

Variations and Substitutions

This salad is incredibly versatile—here are a few ideas to switch things up:

• Make it vegetarian: Swap the chicken for crispy buffalo tofu or roasted cauliflower for a plant-based version.
• Add grains: Bulk it up with cooked quinoa, farro, or brown rice for a heartier meal.
• Try different dressings: A honey mustard or yogurt-based dressing works well if you’re not a fan of blue cheese or ranch.
• Include extra toppings: Think crumbled bacon, sliced hard-boiled eggs, or sunflower seeds for added flavor and crunch.
• Adjust the heat: For a spicier kick, sprinkle in some cayenne or red pepper flakes. For a milder version, mix the buffalo sauce with more butter or yogurt.

Experiment with what you have in your kitchen to make this salad uniquely yours!

Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch, a lighter dinner, or a party-ready dish, this Easy Buffalo Chicken Salad delivers on every level. The spicy, tangy flavors combined with crisp greens and creamy dressing will keep you coming back for more. Enjoy this fresh twist on a classic!

Print