Name: Healthy Buffalo Chicken Salad (High Protein Recipe)
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-487793H19M10S
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3/4 cup blended cottage cheese; 1/2 cup Frank’s Buffalo sauce; 1/2 ranch seasoning packet; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 3 cups cooked shredded chicken breast; 3 celery sticks, finely chopped; 2 carrots, finely chopped; 1/2 yellow onion, finely chopped

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This Healthy Buffalo Chicken Salad is the perfect balance of spicy, creamy, and crunchy, with a boost of protein to keep you feeling full and satisfied. Made with shredded chicken, a tangy Buffalo cottage cheese dressing, and fresh veggies, this dish is easy to prepare, incredibly flavorful, and can be enjoyed in many different ways – from wraps to toast or straight from the bowl.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

High in Protein: With a base of shredded chicken and cottage cheese, this recipe offers a great source of lean protein.
Creamy and Spicy: The combination of Buffalo sauce and creamy cottage cheese creates a rich and tangy dressing that coats the chicken perfectly.
Packed with Veggies: The fresh celery, carrots, and onions add crunch, flavor, and nutrients to every bite.
Versatile: Enjoy this chicken salad in lettuce wraps, on top of a salad, in a sandwich, or straight from the bowl.
Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just a few minutes and is perfect for meal prep or a healthy weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

3/4 cup blended cottage cheese
1/2 cup Frank’s Buffalo sauce
1/2 ranch seasoning packet
1 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp black pepper
3 cups cooked shredded chicken breast
3 celery sticks, finely chopped
2 carrots, finely chopped
1/2 yellow onion, finely chopped

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

Directions

Make the Dressing: In a small blender or food processor, blend together the cottage cheese, Buffalo sauce, ranch seasoning, garlic powder, and black pepper. Blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
Prepare the Chicken Salad: In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken with the chopped celery, carrots, and onion. Toss them together to mix the ingredients evenly.
Add the Dressing: Pour the Buffalo cottage cheese dressing over the chicken mixture. Stir until everything is fully coated and looking irresistible.
Chill: Let the salad sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Serve: Enjoy the Buffalo chicken salad in your favorite way! Serve it on toast, in lettuce wraps, or straight from the bowl with a fork.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Chill Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

Add Cheese: Sprinkle some crumbled blue cheese or shredded cheddar on top for extra flavor.
Spicy Twist: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for an extra kick of spice.
Vegan Version: Use plant-based shredded chicken and dairy-free cottage cheese for a vegan version of this recipe.
More Veggies: You can add other veggies like bell peppers, cucumbers, or spinach for added nutrients and crunch.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftover Buffalo chicken salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheating: This salad is best served cold, so it doesn’t need reheating. Simply take it out of the fridge and enjoy.

FAQs

Can I use non-fat cottage cheese?

Yes, you can use non-fat cottage cheese for a lighter version of this recipe. The dressing will still be creamy and flavorful.

Can I make this recipe without ranch seasoning?

If you don’t have ranch seasoning, you can substitute it with a mix of dried herbs like parsley, dill, and chives, or use a store-bought ranch dressing for convenience.

How can I make this recipe spicier?

If you love spice, increase the amount of Buffalo sauce or add some hot sauce or chili flakes to the dressing for a fiery kick.

Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking chicken breast?

Yes, rotisserie chicken works perfectly in this recipe and saves time. Just shred the chicken and mix it with the veggies and dressing.

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! This salad is perfect for meal prep. Just make it ahead of time, and it will keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Conclusion

This Healthy Buffalo Chicken Salad is a great way to enjoy the bold flavors of Buffalo wings without the extra calories. With its creamy, spicy dressing, lean protein from chicken, and crunchy veggies, it’s the perfect meal for a healthy lunch or dinner. Whether you enjoy it in wraps, on toast, or right out of the bowl, it’s sure to become a go-to recipe for you!