Buffalo Blue Cheese Low Carb Chicken Salad – Zesty, Creamy, and Satisfying

How to Store

Store the salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Keep lettuce and garnishes separate so they stay crisp.

If you plan to meal prep, portion into containers and add herbs or extra blue cheese just before eating. The flavors often get better by day two, but the celery will soften slightly. Avoid freezing—dairy-based dressings separate after thawing.

Why This is Good for You

• High in protein: Chicken keeps you full and supports muscle recovery.
• Lower in carbs: No pasta or bread needed, which makes it great for low-carb or keto-leaning meals.
• Balanced fats: The mayo and blue cheese add satisfying fats that help with satiety.

  You can use avocado oil mayo for a cleaner profile.

• Nutrient-rich add-ins: Celery and green onions bring fiber, hydration, and micronutrients without adding many carbs.
• Customizable heat: Spicy foods can make simple meals more exciting without extra calories.

What Not to Do

• Don’t skip the acid. Lemon juice or vinegar brightens the dressing and keeps it from tasting flat.
• Don’t overdress the chicken. Start with less sauce than you think, then add more. You can always loosen it later.
• Don’t use watery yogurt. If your yogurt is thin, strain it for 10 minutes or use a thicker Greek yogurt to avoid a runny salad.
• Don’t add hot chicken. Warm chicken will thin the dressing and can make it greasy. Cool it first.
• Don’t forget to season. Buffalo sauce is salty, but the salad still needs a pinch of salt and pepper to pop.

Alternatives

• Dairy-free: Use a dairy-free mayo and swap blue cheese for a dairy-free crumbly cheese or omit it.

  Add extra green onions and herbs to boost flavor.

• No-mayo version: Use all Greek yogurt with a splash of olive oil for richness. It will be tangier and lighter.
• Extra creamy: Add 2 ounces softened cream cheese to the dressing for a thicker, richer texture.
• Heat level: Use mild buffalo sauce for less spice, or add cayenne or a splash of hot sauce for more kick.
• Protein swap: Try shredded turkey, canned chicken, or poached chicken thighs for a juicier result.
• Add-ins: Diced cucumber, chopped pickles, or crispy bacon bits add texture and flavor while staying low carb.
• Serving ideas: Spoon onto halved avocados, stuff into hollowed-out bell peppers, or pair with celery and cucumber for scooping.

FAQ

Can I use canned chicken?

Yes. Drain it well and break it up with a fork before mixing.

It’s not as juicy as fresh or rotisserie chicken, but the dressing helps a lot.

How spicy is this salad?

It depends on your buffalo sauce and how much you use. Start with 1/3 cup, taste, and add more if you want extra heat. A pinch of cayenne will turn it up fast.

What kind of blue cheese works best?

Any crumbly style works—gorgonzola, roquefort, or classic blue.

Choose one you enjoy eating on its own. If you’re unsure, go mild and add more to taste.

Can I make it ahead?

Definitely. It tastes even better after a few hours.

Just give it a quick stir before serving and adjust with a splash of buffalo sauce if it thickens.

Is this keto-friendly?

Yes. It’s low carb and high fat, especially if you use full-fat yogurt and mayo. Keep an eye on the carb count if you add extras like carrots or sweet peppers.

How do I keep it from getting watery?

Use thick Greek yogurt, cool the chicken before mixing, and chop celery finely rather than in big chunks.

If it loosens up in the fridge, stir and add a spoon of yogurt to thicken.

Can I serve it warm?

It’s best chilled or at room temperature. Warmth can make the dressing separate. If you prefer it not cold, let it sit on the counter for 10 minutes before serving.

What’s the best way to poach chicken for this?

Simmer chicken breasts in salted water or broth with a bay leaf and peppercorns for 12–15 minutes, until cooked through.

Cool, then shred. It stays tender and absorbs the dressing well.

How much salt should I add?

Buffalo sauce and blue cheese are salty, so start light. Add a pinch, taste, and adjust at the end.

Freshly ground black pepper adds nice warmth.

Can I make it without blue cheese?

Sure. Use feta for a milder tang, or leave cheese out and add extra herbs, green onions, and a squeeze of lemon for brightness.

Final Thoughts

This Buffalo Blue Cheese Low Carb Chicken Salad is bold, creamy, and easy to throw together any day of the week. It’s flexible enough for meal prep and fancy enough for a casual lunch spread with friends.

Keep the ingredients simple, adjust the heat to your liking, and serve it in a way that suits your routine. When you want big flavor without a big fuss, this salad delivers every time.