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Spicy High Protein Buffalo Pasta Salad

Spicy High Protein Buffalo Pasta Salad for Flavor Lovers

This Spicy High Protein Buffalo Pasta Salad is packed with flavor and protein, making it perfect for meal prep or quick weeknight dinners.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Cooling Time 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 6 cups
Course: Salads
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 oz Orecchiette This pasta shape holds the sauce beautifully.
For the Chicken
  • 2 lb Chicken Breast Use fresh or rotisserie chicken for a hearty protein boost.
  • 2 tsp Onion Powder Essential for that savory kick.
  • 2 tsp Garlic Powder Feel free to swap in fresh garlic for a punchier taste.
  • 2 tsp Paprika Smoked paprika works wonders if you’re feeling adventurous.
  • 1 tsp Salt Adjust according to your dietary needs.
For the Vegetables
  • 1.5 Red Onion Cut into wedges.
  • 1.5 cups Carrots Shredded or sliced.
  • 1.5 cups Celery
  • 3 Scallions Finely sliced.
For the Dressing
  • 0.75 cup Buffalo Sauce Frank's RedHot is highly recommended.
  • 0.75 cup Yogurt Greek yogurt ups the protein.

Equipment

  • Oven
  • Mixing bowl
  • sheet pan
  • Large pot

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and pat chicken breasts dry.
  2. Combine onion powder, garlic powder, paprika, and salt in a small bowl and rub on chicken.
  3. Cut red onions into wedges and place alongside chicken on a lined sheet pan. Bake for about 18-20 minutes.
  4. Cool the chicken and onions slightly, then chop the chicken and cut onions smaller.
  5. In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil, add orecchiette, and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
  6. Rinse pasta under cold water and set aside to cool.
  7. Prep vegetables by slicing carrots, chopping celery, and finely slicing scallions.
  8. Whisk buffalo sauce and yogurt together in a separate bowl until smooth.
  9. In a large mixing bowl, combine orecchiette, chopped chicken, roasted onions, carrots, celery, and scallions. Drizzle dressing and toss gently.
  10. Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator. Enjoy!

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 30gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 60mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 4gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 120IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 10mgIron: 15mg

Notes

Allow chicken and pasta to cool before mixing for the best texture. Make this salad at least an hour before serving for optimized flavor.

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