This Buffalo Chicken Salad with Cottage Cheese is a protein-packed, spicy, and creamy dish that’s perfect for meal prep or a quick, satisfying lunch. The combination of shredded chicken, tangy buffalo sauce, and cottage cheese creates a flavorful, healthy salad that you can enjoy in wraps, sandwiches, or over a bed of greens.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

High in Protein – Packed with 31g of protein per serving, it’s a great post-workout meal.
Quick & Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes for a simple yet delicious lunch or dinner.
Spicy & Flavorful – The buffalo sauce adds a perfect kick to the creamy, tangy base.
Versatile – Enjoy it cold, warm, in wraps, or as a dip.

Ingredients

1 lb shredded cooked chicken (boiled or rotisserie)
½ cup cottage cheese (2% recommended)
¼ cup plain Greek yogurt (0% fat)
¼ cup buffalo sauce (such as Frank’s Red Hot)
1 tablespoon ranch seasoning mix
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
½ cup finely diced celery
¼ cup finely diced sweet onion
½ cup shredded mild cheddar cheese

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

Directions

Cook & Shred Chicken
- Boil chicken in water and chicken broth for 15 minutes, or until fully cooked. Drain and let cool before shredding. Alternatively, use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken.
Make the Dressing
- In a bowl, mix cottage cheese, Greek yogurt, buffalo sauce, ranch seasoning, and lemon juice until smooth.
Assemble the Salad
- Add the shredded chicken, diced celery, diced onion, and shredded cheddar cheese to the dressing. Stir until well combined.
Serve & Enjoy
- Serve chilled with crackers, on a sandwich, in wraps, or over salad greens.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

Make it Spicier – Add extra buffalo sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Lower Fat Option – Use fat-free cottage cheese and Greek yogurt.
Dairy-Free – Substitute dairy-free yogurt and cheese alternatives.
Extra Crunch – Add chopped bell peppers or shredded carrots.

Storage & Reheating

Refrigeration – Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezing – Not recommended, as the texture may change.
Reheating – Can be served cold or heated in the microwave for 30 seconds.

FAQs

Can I use canned chicken?
Yes, but fresh or rotisserie chicken has a better texture.
Is this salad best served hot or cold?
It’s typically served cold, but you can warm it if desired.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! It’s great for meal prep and stays fresh in the fridge for several days.
What’s the best way to shred chicken?
Use two forks, a hand mixer, or a stand mixer for quick shredding.
Can I add avocado?
Absolutely! Avocado adds creaminess and healthy fats.

Conclusion

This Buffalo Chicken Salad with Cottage Cheese is a high-protein, creamy, and spicy dish perfect for meal prep, quick lunches, or as a party dip. It’s versatile, easy to make, and packed with bold flavors. Enjoy this satisfying and healthy meal!