Buffalo Chicken Salad (Whole30 Paleo and Keto)

Whole30, paleo, and easy, this Buffalo Chicken Salad will be your new favorite recipe for every occasion!

I don’t know about you but Buffalo Chicken Dip has been a go-to appetizer of mine for years. Whether I’m cooking for game day, holiday get-togethers, or any other occasion, it’s always a crowd-pleaser among both kids and adults! Recently, I found myself craving this classic comfort food. However, a dip just won’t cut it when it comes to mealtime. So, in an effort to make this dip meal prep friendly, I decided to turn it into a chicken salad. I prefer to serve it over a bed of greens, but it tastes great on a sandwich or spread on crackers as well. With all the traditional flavors of classic buffalo dip, this recipe will quickly become a staple in your diet!

To start, cook your chicken whichever way you prefer. This recipe works in the oven, slow cooker, or on the stove. If you struggle to make juicy, tender shredded chicken take a look at this article for the best, foolproof cooking method and tips! When cooking, use a meat thermometer to make sure the chicken’s internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit and is no longer pink. When finished, set the chicken aside to cool.

Or, if you’re in a pinch for time, opt for pre-cooked chicken. This trick is my favorite secret to creating quick, delicious dinners is to pick up a rotisserie chicken at my local grocery store. Don’t worry. Your secret is safe with me.

Next, chop your celery stalks. Personally, I prefer to dice my celery as small as possible. However, if you want to add more texture to the recipe feel free to chop your celery into bigger pieces.

Now, in a small bowl combine the mayonnaise, hot sauce, lemon juice, and seasonings. Stir the mixture until the ingredients are evenly distributed. To keep this recipe whole-30 compliant, I love to use this mayonnaise, but you can use whatever you have available to you.

Finally, shred the cooked chicken with two forks. Add the meat and celery to the mayonnaise mixture. When combined, stir all the ingredients until they are evenly distributed. Now, you’re done! Enjoy this Buffalo Chicken Salad any way you prefer, and feel free to experiment.

Tips to Cook Buffalo Chicken Salad:

Use buffalo sauce sparingly! I recommend adding a few drops at a time and tasting the mixture. Then, you can adjust the measurements according to taste.

Use pre-cooked chicken to make this recipe even faster. However, be sure to check nutrition labels! The truth is, some store-bought varieties are not compliant with whole-30 or paleo regulations.

If serving this salad over lettuce or with crackers, I recommend letting it chill in the fridge for at least an hour.

If you’re using a pre-cooked rotisserie chicken to make Buffalo Chicken Salad, be sure to remove the skin before adding it to the recipe.

Frequently Asked Questions:

u003cstrongu003eCan I use a different protein source in Buffalo Chicken Salad?u003c/strongu003e

While it won’t technically be buffalo chicken salad anymore, the chicken in this recipe can be substituted for another protein source you prefer. I would suggest using tuna, tofu, or even shrimp.

u003cbru003eu003cstrongu003eDo I need to use a specific hot sauce for Buffalo Chicken Salad? u003c/strongu003e

Personally, I prefer to use u003ca href=u0022https://rstyle.me/+Q_6Z30el4009GUkae6wjSwu0022u003eFrank’s Red Hot Sauceu003c/au003e. However, any hot sauce or buffalo sauce you have on hand will work in this recipe. If you’re following a Paleo or Keto diet, be sure to check the nutrition label to ensure the sauce fits in your diet!

u003cbru003eu003cstrongu003eHow long can Buffalo Chicken Salad be stored?u003c/strongu003e

If kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator, Buffalo Chicken Salad can be safely stored for 3-5 days.

u003cbru003eu003cstrongu003eCan I make Buffalo Chicken Salad without mayonnaise? u003c/strongu003e

Buffalo Chicken Salad can be made without mayonnaise. I recommend substituting it with cream cheese, greek yogurt, or even a creamy dressing. Of course, be sure to double check any ingredient lists to make sure the recipe remains Whole-30, paleo, and keto.

u003cbru003eu003cstrongu003eWhat should I serve with Buffalo Chicken Salad?u003c/strongu003e

Buffalo Chicken Salad can be served a variety of ways. Use it as a salad topping. Or, serve it with crackers or as a sandwich or wrap. You can even enjoy it with celery sticks…or a spoon. No judgement.Then, I like to pair this recipe with a cooked vegetable such as broccoli, fresh fruit, or french fries. The options are endless!

Now that you know how to make this delicious and ridiculously easy Buffalo Chicken Salad recipe, what are you waiting for?! Be sure to comment below or tag me on social media. I’d love to see your recreations! Also, what are your go-to recipes? Let me know below!

Healthy Chicken Recipes

Looking for more chicken recipes? Whether you need a quick dinner, healthy lunch, or just want to try something new, I’ve got you covered! This Easy-Peasy Whole30 Chicken Salad is a longtime favorite of mine. Make a big batch ahead of time for healthy lunches all week long. Or, create a delicious dinner the whole family will love in just 40 minutes with these Sheet Pan Chicken Thighs with Fennel and Red Peppers.

Until next time, enjoy!