Healthy Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad with Blue Cheese

This healthy buffalo chicken pasta salad is a protein-packed, flavor-forward dish made with tender shredded chicken, creamy Greek yogurt-based buffalo dressing, crunchy vegetables, and tangy blue cheese crumbles. It’s perfect for meal prep, potlucks, or a refreshing weeknight dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Balanced and nutritious: A complete meal with protein, complex carbs, and veggies
• Tangy and spicy: Buffalo sauce gives it bold flavor, cooled by creamy blue cheese
• Quick and easy: Ready in about 25 minutes
• Perfect for meal prep: Great cold or at room temperature
• Customizable: Adjust the heat, add your favorite vegetables or swap the pasta

ingredients

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

• Cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced
• Dry fusilli or rotini pasta
• Red bell pepper, diced
• Celery, diced
• Carrot, shredded
• Plain Greek yogurt
• Buffalo hot sauce (like Frank’s RedHot)
• Blue cheese dressing
• Blue cheese crumbles
• Lemon juice
• Fresh parsley or dill
• Salt and pepper

directions

1. Cook pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
2. In a bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, buffalo sauce, blue cheese dressing, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to form the dressing.
3. In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, shredded chicken, diced pepper, celery, and carrots.
4. Pour dressing over the salad and toss well to coat.
5. Stir in blue cheese crumbles and fresh herbs.
6. Chill for 15–30 minutes for best flavor or serve immediately.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 6
• Prep time: 5 minutes
• Cook time: 20 minutes
• Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Swap in ranch dressing if you’re not a fan of blue cheese
• Use rotisserie chicken for convenience
• Add green onions, cucumbers, or avocado for extra texture
• Use chickpea or gluten-free pasta for dietary needs
• Make it creamier with a spoonful of mayo or more Greek yogurt

storage/reheating

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days
• Not suitable for freezing due to dairy-based dressing
• Stir before serving again as dressing may settle

FAQs

What pasta shape is best?

Short shapes like fusilli, rotini, or shells hold the dressing well and mix easily.

Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Yes, it’s a great time-saving option that adds extra flavor.

Is this salad spicy?

It has moderate heat from the buffalo sauce, but you can adjust to taste.

Can I skip the blue cheese?

Yes, use feta or shredded mozzarella, or omit entirely.

How can I make this dairy-free?

Use dairy-free yogurt and cheese alternatives, and a vegan dressing.

Is this gluten-free?

It can be—use certified gluten-free pasta and sauces.

Can I make it ahead of time?

Yes, it’s great for meal prep. Combine everything and store chilled.

What vegetables can I add?

Try chopped cucumbers, radishes, or baby spinach for added crunch and color.

How long should I chill it before serving?

Chill for 15–30 minutes to let the flavors meld.

What can I serve it with?

It’s great on its own or with a side of fresh fruit, a green salad, or whole grain crackers.

Conclusion

Healthy Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad with Blue Cheese is a bold, satisfying twist on classic pasta salad. With a creamy, spicy dressing and plenty of crunch from fresh vegetables, it’s a fast, flavorful option for lunches, picnics, or potluck tables. It’s easy to make, easy to customize, and sure to be a favorite.

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