close up image of a buffalo chicken salad sandwich on a croissant

Buffalo Chicken Salad Recipe | No Mayo Rotisserie Chicken Salad

Buffalo Chicken Salad without mayo is one of the easiest and most flavorful ways to enjoy a protein packed meal that delivers bold flavor.
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Buffalo Chicken Salad without mayo is one of the easiest and most flavorful ways to enjoy a lighter, protein packed meal that still delivers bold flavor. It combines tender rotisserie chicken, tangy buffalo sauce, shredded cheese, and a creamy mayo free dressing that keeps everything fresh and balanced. The result is a satisfying dish that tastes like your favorite buffalo wings in a cool, refreshing salad form that is perfect for lunch, meal prep, hearty dip, or an easy dinner.

close up image of a buffalo chicken salad sandwich on a croissant

Why You’ll Love This Flavorful Chicken Salad

  • Quick and easy to make. This buffalo chicken salad comes together in under 20 minutes, especially when using rotisserie chicken, making it perfect for busy days.
  • No mayo needed. Instead of mayonnaise, this recipe uses a creamy alternative like Greek yogurt and sour cream, giving you all the same texture without the mayo flavor.
  • Packed with bold buffalo flavor. Every bite has that tangy, spicy kick you love, balanced with a creamy mayo-free dressing.
  • Perfect for meal prep. It stores well in the refrigerator, making it ideal for make ahead lunches throughout the week.
  • Versatile and customizable. Serve it in wraps, sandwiches, lettuce cups, or on its own. You can easily adjust the spice level and add your favorite mix ins.

This recipe is perfect for busy weekdays, quick lunches, or even a light dinner when you want something filling but not too heavy. It is one of those comfort food recipes that feels both indulgent and fresh at the same time.

What Does Buffalo Chicken Salad Without Mayo Taste Like?

Buffalo chicken salad without mayo tastes tangy, spicy, creamy, and refreshing. The chicken is tender and coated in bold buffalo sauce, while the creamy base adds smoothness without being heavy. The celery adds a crisp crunch that balances everything out. Each bite has that classic buffalo flavor with a lighter, fresher finish.

Ingredients To Grab

  • Chicken– Chicken is the main protein and gives the salad its hearty, satisfying base. Rotisserie chicken works great for convenience and flavor.
  • Buffalo sauce– Buffalo sauce brings the signature tangy, spicy flavor that defines this dish. It coats the chicken and adds boldness to every bite.
  • Greek yogurt and sour cream- This replaces mayonnaise and provides a creamy texture with a lighter feel. Greek yogurt adds tang, while sour cream keeps the dressing from being too thin.
  • Garlic powder– Garlic powder adds depth and enhances the savory flavor of the chicken.
  • Black pepper– Black pepper adds a subtle kick and rounds out the flavors.
  • Shredded cheese– Freshly shredded cheese adds creaminess and richness, making the salad more satisfying.

How To Make Buffalo Chicken Salad Without Mayo

Rotisserie chicken salad cut into chunks on a cutting board

Prepare the chicken. Start by shredding or chopping your cooked rotisserie chicken into bite sized pieces. Rotisserie chicken makes this step quick and easy, but you can also use baked or grilled chicken.

Buffalo chicken salad dressing in a mixing bowl with a silicone spatula

Mix the dressing. In a large bowl, combine Greek yogurt and sour cream with buffalo sauce. Stir until smooth and creamy. Adjust the amount of buffalo sauce based on your preferred spice level.

Close up image of Buffalo Chicken Salad in a mixing bowl garnished with parsley

Combine the ingredients. Add the shredded chicken, shredded cheese, garlic powder, and black pepper to the bowl. Toss everything together until evenly coated. Taste the salad and adjust the seasoning if needed. You can add more buffalo sauce for heat or more yogurt for a milder flavor.

Two buffalo chicken salad sandwiches on large croissants over a bed of lettuce

Serve and enjoy. Serve immediately in lettuce wraps, sandwiches, wraps, or on its own. It can also be chilled for later.

Tips And Tricks

Making buffalo chicken salad without mayo is simple, but these tips will help you get the best flavor and texture every time.

  • Skip the cooking. Use store-bought rotisserie chicken to save time and add extra flavor.
  • Monitor the spice. Add buffalo sauce gradually so you can control the spice level.
  • Chill properly. Let the salad chill for 30 minutes to enhance the flavors.
  • Add more dressing. Adjust the creaminess by adding more yogurt or sour cream as needed.

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is how easy it is to customize based on your preferences.

  • Try it with blue cheese. Add crumbled blue cheese for a classic buffalo flavor boost.
  • Add veggies. Mix in diced carrots, celery, or red onion for extra crunch and sweetness.
  • Swap out the chicken. Use grilled chicken for a smoky flavor.
  • Keep it low carb. Make it low carb by serving in lettuce wraps.
  • Swap with ranch. Skip the sour cream and use ranch dressing if you prefer the flavor.

What To Eat With Buffalo Chicken Salad Without Mayo

Buffalo chicken salad is flavorful on its own, but pairing it with the right sides makes it even better.

  • Crackers or pita chips for scooping and added crunch
  • Lettuce wraps for a light and refreshing option
  • Sandwich bread or croissants for a hearty meal
  • Fresh veggies like carrots and cucumbers for balance
  • Pasta salad for a more filling combination

How Long Does It Last?

Buffalo chicken salad without mayo lasts about 3 to 4 days in the refrigerator when stored in an airtight container. The flavors actually get better as it sits, making it perfect for meal prep.

Can You Make It Ahead?

Yes. This is a great make ahead recipe. Prepare the salad and store it in the refrigerator until ready to serve. Give it a quick stir before serving to refresh the texture.

Is buffalo chicken salad without mayo healthy?

Buffalo chicken salad without mayo is a healthier option compared to traditional versions. Using Greek yogurt reduces fat while still keeping the salad creamy and satisfying, making it a great high protein, low carb meal option.

How do you make buffalo chicken salad less spicy?

To make buffalo chicken salad less spicy, reduce the amount of buffalo sauce and add more Greek yogurt or sour cream. You can also mix in mild ingredients like shredded cheese or celery to balance the heat.

Can I use canned chicken for buffalo chicken salad without mayo?

Yes, canned chicken can be used for buffalo chicken salad without mayo. Just drain it well and break it apart before mixing with the other ingredients. It is a quick and convenient option for an easy lunch.

More Buffalo Chicken Recipe

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close up image of a buffalo chicken salad sandwich on a croissant

Buffalo Chicken Salad Recipe | No Mayo Rotisserie Chicken Salad

5 from 2 votes
Buffalo Chicken Salad without mayo is one of the easiest and most flavorful ways to enjoy a protein packed meal that delivers bold flavor.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Servings: 6 sandwiches
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 290

Ingredients
  

  • 3 1/2 cups Rotisserie Chicken chopped
  • 1/2 cup Greek Yogurt
  • 1/3 cup Sour Cream
  • 1/4 cup Buffalo Sauce
  • 1/2 tsp Salt
  • 1/2 tsp Garlic Powder
  • 1/4 tsp Ground Black Pepper

Method
 

  1. Mix the dressing. In a large bowl, combine Greek yogurt and sour cream with buffalo sauce. Stir until smooth and creamy. Adjust the amount of buffalo sauce based on your preferred spice level.
  2. Combine the ingredients. Add the shredded chicken, shredded cheese, garlic powder, and black pepper to the bowl. Toss everything together until evenly coated. Taste the salad and adjust the seasoning if needed. You can add more buffalo sauce for heat or more yogurt for a milder flavor.
  3. Serve and enjoy. Serve immediately in lettuce wraps, sandwiches, wraps, or on its own. It can also be chilled for later.

Nutrition

Calories: 290kcalCarbohydrates: 1gProtein: 40gFat: 14gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.1gMonounsaturated Fat: 1gTrans Fat: 0.002gCholesterol: 141mgSodium: 989mgPotassium: 44mgFiber: 0.05gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 81IUVitamin C: 0.1mgCalcium: 32mgIron: 0.04mg

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5 from 2 votes

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Ashley Thompson, food blogger and recipe developer for ComfortCooks.com in a blue tank top smiling

Hi! I'm Ashley.

Welcome to my corner of the internet!


I'm married to my high school sweetheart and we have three amazing sons.

I love carbs, cheese, and all things spicy and deep fried. There's nothing that makes me happier than a full kitchen table and a family with a full belly!


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