If you're looking for a quick, flavorful meal that packs a spicy kick, this Easy Buffalo Chicken Salad is your answer! Juicy, tender chicken tossed in tangy buffalo sauce, paired with crisp veggies and creamy dressing, makes for a salad that’s hearty, refreshing, and irresistibly delicious.

I first came up with this recipe when I needed something fast, satisfying, and versatile for lunch. It has since become a staple in my weekly rotation, perfect for everything from meal prep to a last-minute dinner. Ready to dig in? Let’s make it happen!

Why You’ll Love This Easy Buffalo Chicken Salad

This recipe checks all the boxes for a delicious and practical dish. Here’s why it deserves a spot on your table:

Quick and Easy

With simple ingredients and a prep time of just 20 minutes, this salad is perfect for busy days when you need a satisfying meal without the fuss.

Packed with Flavor

The spicy tang of buffalo chicken paired with crunchy veggies and creamy dressing creates a taste explosion in every bite.

Healthy and Customizable

Loaded with fresh greens and lean protein, this salad is as nutritious as it is tasty. Plus, you can easily swap ingredients to suit your preferences or dietary needs.

Great for Meal Prep

Make it ahead of time and store in the fridge for a quick grab-and-go lunch or dinner. It holds up beautifully and tastes even better as the flavors meld.

Ingredients Notes

Each ingredient in this Buffalo Chicken Salad plays a key role in creating its bold, balanced flavors. Here’s what you’ll need:

Cooked Chicken

Shredded or cubed chicken breasts work perfectly here. You can use rotisserie chicken for convenience, grilled chicken for added smokiness, or even leftover baked chicken.

Buffalo Sauce

The star of the show! Use your favorite brand or whip up a homemade version. For less heat, mix it with a bit of honey or ranch dressing.

Mixed Greens

A blend of romaine, spinach, and arugula provides a variety of textures and flavors. Feel free to use any leafy greens you love.

Crispy Veggies

Carrots, celery, and red bell peppers add crunch and complement the buffalo sauce with their natural sweetness.

Cheese

Crumbled blue cheese is classic for buffalo dishes, but shredded cheddar or feta are great alternatives if blue cheese isn’t your favorite.

Creamy Dressing

Ranch or blue cheese dressing ties everything together. For a lighter option, use a Greek yogurt-based dressing or drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice.

How to Make Easy Buffalo Chicken Salad

This salad is as simple as it gets! Follow these steps for a dish that’s ready in no time.

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

If you’re starting with uncooked chicken, season with salt and pepper and cook in a skillet over medium heat until golden and cooked through. Let it cool slightly, then shred or cube it. Toss the chicken with buffalo sauce, making sure it’s evenly coated.

Step 2: Chop the Veggies

Thinly slice the carrots, celery, and red bell peppers. If you’re short on time, pre-cut veggies from the grocery store work just as well.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

In a large bowl, layer the mixed greens as the base. Add the buffalo chicken, followed by the chopped veggies, and sprinkle with crumbled blue cheese or your cheese of choice.

Step 4: Dress and Serve

Drizzle your salad with ranch or blue cheese dressing. For an extra burst of flavor, add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a sprinkle of green onions. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Storage Options

This Buffalo Chicken Salad is great for meal prep or leftovers. Here’s how to keep it fresh:

Refrigerate

Store the salad components separately in airtight containers for up to 3 days. Keep the dressing on the side to prevent the greens from wilting.

Assemble Ahead

If you’re short on time, layer the ingredients in a mason jar with the dressing at the bottom and the greens on top. Shake it up when ready to eat, and it’ll taste just as fresh as when you made it.

Variations and Substitutions

This salad is wonderfully versatile. Here are some ways to make it your own:

Vegetarian Option

Replace the chicken with crispy buffalo cauliflower florets or chickpeas for a plant-based version.

Keto-Friendly

Skip the carrots and opt for low-carb greens like kale or spinach. Use a keto-friendly buffalo sauce and dressing to keep it compliant.

Add Grains

For a heartier meal, toss the salad with cooked quinoa, farro, or brown rice. It adds a chewy texture and extra nutrients.

Amp Up the Protein

Add hard-boiled eggs, avocado slices, or a handful of roasted nuts for an extra boost of protein and healthy fats.

Mild and Kid-Friendly

Use a milder wing sauce or mix the buffalo sauce with ranch for a less spicy version. Swap blue cheese for cheddar to suit younger palates.

This Easy Buffalo Chicken Salad is proof that salads can be exciting, filling, and absolutely delicious. Whether you’re looking for a quick weekday lunch or a crowd-pleasing dish for a get-together, this recipe delivers every time. Give it a try and get ready to savor every bite!