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Healthy Buffalo Chicken Pasta Salad - A Lighter, Flavor-Packed Favorite

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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • Chicken: 2 cups cooked chicken breast (grilled, baked, or rotisserie), chopped or shredded
  • Pasta: 8 ounces whole wheat or chickpea pasta (short shapes like rotini, penne, or shells)
  • Buffalo sauce: 1/3–1/2 cup, depending on heat preference (look for a sauce with simple ingredients)
  • Greek yogurt: 3/4 cup plain, 2% or nonfat
  • Light mayo (optional): 2 tablespoons for extra creaminess
  • Apple cider vinegar or lemon juice: 1 tablespoon
  • Garlic powder: 1/2 teaspoon
  • Onion powder: 1/2 teaspoon
  • Celery: 2 ribs, finely chopped
  • Carrot: 1 large, shredded or finely chopped
  • Red bell pepper: 1 small, diced
  • Green onions: 2–3, thinly sliced
  • Fresh herbs (optional): 2 tablespoons chopped parsley or dill
  • Crumbled blue cheese or feta (optional): 1/4 cup
  • Salt and black pepper: to taste
  • Olive oil (optional): 1 teaspoon for the pasta to prevent sticking

Method
 

  1. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta until just al dente, then drain and rinse under cool water to stop cooking. Toss with a teaspoon of olive oil if desired to prevent sticking.
  2. Prep the chicken: If not using leftover or rotisserie chicken, grill or bake chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and a light drizzle of oil. Let cool, then chop or shred into bite-size pieces.
  3. Mix the dressing: In a large bowl, whisk Greek yogurt, buffalo sauce, apple cider vinegar or lemon juice, garlic powder, and onion powder. Taste and adjust heat by adding more buffalo sauce. Add a pinch of salt and pepper.
  4. Add the mix-ins: Stir in the chopped celery, carrots, bell pepper, and green onions. Fold in the chicken until coated.
  5. Combine with pasta: Add the cooled pasta to the bowl and gently toss until everything is evenly coated. If the salad looks dry, add a splash more buffalo sauce or a spoonful of yogurt.
  6. Finish and chill: Fold in fresh herbs and crumbled blue cheese or feta if using. Cover and chill for at least 20–30 minutes to let flavors mingle.
  7. Season and serve: Give it a final toss. Adjust salt, pepper, or buffalo sauce to taste. Garnish with extra green onions or herbs before serving.