Description
How to make 10 Minute Buffalo Chicken Salad with shredded chicken, zesty buffalo sauce, and creamy dressing that’s perfect for a quick, satisfying lunch.
Ingredients
- Main Components:
- 3 cups cooked shredded chicken breast
- 1/2 cup buffalo hot sauce
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 cup chopped celery
- 6 cups mixed greens or chopped romaine lettuce
- Flavor Builders:
- 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese
- 1/4 cup finely diced red onion
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- Seasonings:
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Finishing Touches:
- 1 cup halved cherry tomatoes
- 1/2 cup crunchy croutons
Instructions
- Prep Dressing: In a medium bowl, whisk mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, garlic powder, apple cider vinegar, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika until smooth. This creamy base is essential for your 10 Minute Buffalo Chicken Salad. Ensure no lumps remain.
- Flavor Chicken: In a separate bowl, toss the cooked shredded chicken breast with buffalo hot sauce until completely coated. Add chopped celery and diced red onion, mixing well to distribute. This forms the zesty core.
- Warm Chicken: Gently warm the buffalo chicken mixture in a non-stick skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes. This brief heat application deepens the flavors, making your 10 Minute Buffalo Chicken Salad truly crave-worthy. Stir frequently until just warm.
- Mix Together: Carefully fold the warmed buffalo chicken mixture into the prepared creamy dressing. Ensure everything is evenly coated without overmixing, preserving the chicken’s texture. This creates the signature creamy buffalo chicken.
- Assemble Salad: Divide the mixed greens or chopped romaine lettuce among four serving plates or bowls. Top each with generous scoops of the creamy buffalo chicken mixture. This builds the satisfying base for your meal.
- Serve Fresh: Garnish your 10 Minute Buffalo Chicken Salad with crumbled blue cheese, halved cherry tomatoes, and crunchy croutons. Serve immediately for the best fresh taste. Enjoy this quick, high-protein lunch!
Notes
Warm chicken gently for 2-3 minutes; avoid overheating to prevent dryness and toughness.
Store leftover buffalo chicken salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
Substitute Greek yogurt with sour cream or extra mayonnaise for a similar creamy dressing texture.
Serve immediately with fresh greens, or chill 30 minutes for melded flavors and peak taste.
Prep chicken mixture and dressing up to two days ahead; store separately and assemble just before serving.
Briefly toast smoked paprika to intensely deepen the dressing’s complex flavor before mixing it in.
**Allergy Information:** Dairy, Eggs, Gluten