Introduction: What Is Chicken Salad Chick Buffalo Barclay Recipe?
Buffalo Barclay is a bold, flavorful twist on the classic chicken salad served at Chicken Salad Chick. It blends tender chicken with creamy dressing and a spicy buffalo kick. If you love a little heat with your comfort food, this recipe is for you.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
The Chicken Salad Chick Buffalo Barclay recipe is more than just a spicy chicken salad — it’s a flavorful upgrade to a familiar favorite. Here’s why you’ll want to keep this one in your regular rotation:
Bold Buffalo Flavor
If you enjoy the tangy, spicy taste of buffalo wings, this recipe delivers all that flavor in a creamy, satisfying salad form. The heat is balanced by cool, creamy dressing so it’s not overpowering.
High-Protein, Low-Carb
Made with lean shredded chicken, this recipe is naturally high in protein and low in carbs. It’s a great option for keto or low-carb diets.
Versatile & Meal-Prep Friendly
You can serve it on sandwiches, in wraps, over salad greens, or with crackers. It stores well, making it ideal for prepping lunches ahead of time.
Quick and Easy
With simple ingredients and minimal cooking, you can whip this up in under 30 minutes — perfect for busy weekdays or last-minute meals.
Customizable
Make it milder or hotter, creamier or chunkier — the recipe is flexible to suit your taste.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To recreate the bold and creamy flavor of the Chicken Salad Chick Buffalo Barclay, you only need a handful of simple ingredients. These are easy to find and may already be in your pantry or fridge.
Main Ingredients
Cooked Chicken (2–3 cups, shredded)
Use rotisserie chicken, boiled chicken breast, or leftover grilled chicken. The texture should be tender and finely shredded for the most authentic feel.
Buffalo Sauce (¼ cup)
Choose your favorite brand like Frank’s RedHot for that classic buffalo flavor. You can adjust the amount based on how spicy you want it.
Mayonnaise (½ cup)
Acts as the creamy base. Use a high-quality mayo for best results — Duke’s or Hellmann’s are great options.
Ranch Dressing (2–3 tablespoons)
Balances the spice with a cool, herby flavor. Optional but highly recommended.
Celery (1 stalk, finely diced)
Adds crunch and freshness to the salad.
Salt & Pepper (to taste)
Enhances the overall flavor. Go light at first and adjust after mixing.
Optional Add-Ins
Crumbled Blue Cheese (1–2 tablespoons)
For an extra buffalo wing vibe. Adds tangy depth.
Green Onions or Red Onion (finely chopped)
For a mild sharpness and color contrast.
Hard-Boiled Eggs (chopped)
Adds richness and texture, just like in some traditional chicken salad recipes.
Ingredient Scaling (1x, 2x, 3x)
Planning for a party or weekly meal prep?
- 1x = 2–3 servings
- 2x = 4–6 servings
- 3x = 8+ servings
Just double or triple all ingredients accordingly.
Equipment Required
One of the great things about making the Chicken Salad Chick Buffalo Barclay at home is that it doesn’t require any fancy tools or gadgets. You likely already have everything you need in your kitchen.
Basic Equipment
Mixing Bowls (Medium and Large)
A medium bowl for prepping the dressing and a large one for mixing all ingredients together.
Measuring Cups and Spoons
Essential for getting the buffalo sauce, mayo, and seasonings just right.
Cutting Board and Knife
For chopping celery, onions, or any optional add-ins like hard-boiled eggs.
Forks or Salad Chopper (optional)
If you’re starting with whole cooked chicken breasts, use forks to shred or a salad chopper for a fine, uniform texture.
Rubber Spatula or Spoon
For mixing everything gently without breaking down the chicken too much.
Optional but Helpful
Food Processor
If you want a smoother texture or need to shred chicken quickly.
Storage Containers with Lids
For storing leftovers or prepping ahead — airtight containers keep the salad fresh longer.
Ice Cream Scoop or Cookie Scoop
For neat, uniform portions if serving on croissants or as finger sandwiches.
How to Make Chicken Salad Chick Buffalo Barclay (Step-by-Step)
Making the Buffalo Barclay at home is quick, easy, and incredibly satisfying. Follow these simple steps to get the same creamy, spicy, and tangy flavor you love from Chicken Salad Chick.
Step 1: Cook and Shred the Chicken
If you’re not using pre-cooked chicken:
Boil or bake 2–3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts until fully cooked (internal temp: 165°F / 74°C). Let them cool slightly, then shred finely using forks, a stand mixer, or a salad chopper.
- Tip: For an authentic texture, the chicken should be finely shredded, not cubed.
Step 2: Prepare the Dressing
In a medium mixing bowl, combine:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup buffalo sauce
- 2–3 tablespoons ranch dressing (optional but recommended)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Whisk until smooth and well combined.
Tip: Taste the dressing and adjust spice level by adding more or less buffalo sauce.
Step 3: Chop the Add-ins
Finely dice:
- 1 stalk of celery
- Any optional ingredients (e.g., green onions, boiled eggs, blue cheese)
Set aside for mixing.
Step 4: Combine Everything
In a large mixing bowl:
- Add the shredded chicken
- Pour the dressing over it
- Add chopped celery and any mix-ins
Use a rubber spatula or large spoon to gently mix everything until well coated.
Tip: Don’t overmix — keep the chicken light and fluffy.
Step 5: Chill
Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving. This helps the flavors blend and gives the salad the signature texture and taste.
Step 6: Serve
Once chilled, scoop onto a sandwich bun, croissant, lettuce wrap, or plate. Serve cold and enjoy!
Expert Tips and Recipe Notes
To help you make the perfect Chicken Salad Chick Buffalo Barclay at home, here are some expert tips, helpful notes, and answers to common questions. These small tweaks and reminders can make a big difference in flavor and texture.
Use Finely Shredded Chicken for Authentic Texture
The key to nailing the Chicken Salad Chick texture is to shred the chicken very finely. Use two forks, a stand mixer with a paddle attachment, or a salad chopper. Avoid large chunks — the goal is a smooth, scoopable salad that holds together.
Let It Chill for Best Flavor
Buffalo Barclay tastes best after sitting in the fridge for at least 1 hour. This allows the spicy buffalo flavor to soak into the chicken and the dressing to thicken up.
Adjust the Heat Level
Buffalo sauce varies in intensity:
For milder flavor, use a mild buffalo sauce or mix in more ranch or mayo. For extra heat, add a dash of hot sauce, cayenne pepper, or crushed red pepper flakes.
Optional Add-Ins to Customize
While the base recipe is simple, you can add more flavor or texture:
- Blue cheese crumbles for a tangy bite
- Green onions for freshness
- Hard-boiled eggs for added protein and richness
Don’t Overmix
Once the dressing is added, fold gently. Overmixing can make the chicken mushy or break it down too much.
Serving Ideas
While this is covered in detail later, here’s a quick tip:
For a presentation just like Chicken Salad Chick, use an ice cream scoop to serve on a croissant or bed of greens.
Taste Before You Chill
Before chilling, give the salad a taste and adjust salt, pepper, or buffalo sauce as needed. Flavors will mellow slightly after refrigeration.
Make Ahead for Busy Days
This salad is great for meal prep — make it a day in advance, and it will taste even better the next day.
Serving Suggestions
The Chicken Salad Chick Buffalo Barclay is incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways — whether you’re hosting a lunch, packing a meal, or just want something quick and satisfying. Here are some creative and classic serving ideas to enjoy your buffalo chicken salad to the fullest.
On a Croissant (Classic Style)
This is how it’s often served at Chicken Salad Chick. A flaky croissant pairs perfectly with the creamy, spicy chicken salad. Serve chilled with lettuce for added crunch. Add sliced tomato or avocado for extra flavor.
Over Fresh Greens
Turn it into a low-carb lunch by serving it on a bed of mixed greens, romaine, or spinach. Drizzle with extra ranch or a light vinaigrette if desired. Add sliced cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, or shredded carrots for color and crunch.
In Lettuce Wraps
For a keto-friendly or gluten-free option, spoon the chicken salad into large lettuce leaves like romaine, butter lettuce, or iceberg. Easy to hold and full of refreshing crunch. Perfect for meal prep or light snacks.
As a Sandwich or Wrap
Use sandwich bread, hoagie rolls, or whole-wheat wraps for a quick and filling meal. Great for lunchboxes or work meals. Add cheese slices (like provolone or cheddar) for a rich twist.
With Crackers or Pita Chips
Serve as a party appetizer or snack board component:
- Scoop onto buttery crackers, pita chips, or celery sticks.
- Great for game day or potlucks.
Buffalo Chicken Deviled Eggs (Creative Twist)
Use the chicken salad mix as a filling for hard-boiled egg whites — a spicy twist on deviled eggs!
Buffalo Chicken Salad Bowl
Build a lunch bowl by layering:
- Rice or quinoa
- Buffalo Barclay chicken salad
- Pickled onions, corn, black beans, and avocado
Top with a drizzle of ranch or hot sauce.
Variations You Can Try
One of the best things about the Chicken Salad Chick Buffalo Barclay recipe is how easily it can be adapted to suit different tastes, dietary needs, and ingredients you have on hand. Here are several fun and flavorful variations to try:
Spicier Buffalo Barclay
If you love heat, turn up the spice:
- Add a few dashes of hot sauce (like Tabasco or Sriracha)
- Mix in crushed red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper
- Use an extra hot buffalo sauce or spicy ranch for an intense kick
Blue Cheese Buffalo Chicken Salad
Add a classic buffalo wing element by stirring in:
- 1–2 tablespoons of crumbled blue cheese
- This adds a rich, tangy flavor that pairs perfectly with the buffalo heat
- Optional: Drizzle with blue cheese dressing for more creaminess
Healthier Version
Looking to cut down on calories or fat?
- Swap half or all of the mayo for plain Greek yogurt
- Use a light or reduced-fat ranch
- Add more celery or chopped cucumbers for volume and crunch
Egg-Enhanced Buffalo Chicken Salad
For extra protein and richness:
- Chop 1–2 hard-boiled eggs and mix them in
- Adds a more traditional chicken salad texture
- Complements the creamy dressing well
Herb-Infused Twist
Add fresh herbs for a flavor boost:
- Chopped parsley, chives, or dill can brighten the dish
- Great for a more garden-fresh profile
Garlic-Lovers’ Version
For those who love a savory punch:
- Add ½ teaspoon of garlic powder or 1 minced garlic clove
- Mix it into the dressing for depth of flavor
Vegetarian Option
Try the same flavor profile using:
- Chickpeas (mashed) or tofu (crumbled and seasoned) in place of chicken
- Great for vegetarian diets without sacrificing taste
Buffalo Chicken Bacon Ranch
Elevate your salad with:
- Crispy bacon bits
- Extra ranch dressing drizzle
- Serve on toasted bread for a loaded sandwich version
How to Store and Make Ahead
One of the best parts about the Chicken Salad Chick Buffalo Barclay recipe is how well it stores and holds up in the fridge. Whether you’re making it for weekly meal prep or saving leftovers, here’s everything you need to know about storage and make-ahead tips.
How to Store Buffalo Barclay Chicken Salad
Use an Airtight Container:
Transfer the salad to a clean, airtight container immediately after preparation to maintain freshness and prevent it from drying out or absorbing fridge odors.
Refrigeration Time:
Store in the refrigerator for up to 4–5 days. The flavors often deepen and improve after a day or two.
Stir Before Serving:
After sitting, the dressing may separate slightly or appear thicker. Give it a quick stir before serving to restore the creamy texture.
Do Not Freeze:
Mayo-based salads don’t freeze well — the texture becomes watery and grainy when thawed. It’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated only.
Make-Ahead Tips
Perfect for Meal Prep:
Make a big batch on Sunday and enjoy it for lunch throughout the week. Portion it out into single-serving containers for grab-and-go meals.
Prep Ingredients in Advance:
You can pre-cook and shred the chicken, chop the celery, and mix the dressing a day ahead. Store them separately and combine when ready.
Chill Before Serving:
Always allow at least 1 hour of chilling time after mixing for the best flavor and consistency.
Hosting or Events?
Buffalo Barclay can be made 1 day ahead of a party or event. Just keep it chilled and covered until ready to serve.
Storage Safety Tips
Keep Cold:
If you’re serving it at a party or picnic, keep it on ice or in a cooler to prevent spoilage.
Discard if Left Out Too Long:
Don’t leave it at room temperature for more than 2 hours to avoid food safety risks.
Nutrition Information
If you’re watching your calories, tracking macros, or simply trying to eat mindfully, it’s helpful to know the nutritional profile of the Chicken Salad Chick Buffalo Barclay. While exact values may vary slightly based on the brands of ingredients used and serving sizes, here’s a general overview based on a ½ cup (about 115g) serving:
Estimated Nutrition Per Serving (½ cup):
- Calories: ~300–350 kcal
- Protein: 18–22g
- Fat: 24–28g
- Saturated Fat: 3–5g
- Carbohydrates: 1–3g
- Sugars: <1g
- Fiber: 0g
- Cholesterol: 70–90mg
- Sodium: 500–700mg
Nutritional Highlights:
High in Protein
Thanks to shredded chicken, this salad is a great source of lean protein — perfect for energy, satiety, and muscle repair.
Low in Carbs
With minimal carbs, it’s ideal for low-carb, keto, and diabetic-friendly diets.
Watch the Fat Content
The mayo and buffalo sauce contribute to a high fat content, though much of it comes from healthy fats if using quality mayo. Light mayo or Greek yogurt can be used to reduce this.
Moderate Sodium
Buffalo sauce, mayo, and ranch can contribute to higher sodium levels. Choose low-sodium versions of these ingredients if you’re on a salt-restricted diet.
Portion Control Tips:
- A ½ cup serving is typically enough for a sandwich or croissant filling.
- If serving on greens or as a dip, you can reduce the portion to ¼ cup to keep calories lower.
Ingredient Swaps for Healthier Versions:
- Swap mayo with part or all plain Greek yogurt for lower fat and extra protein.
- Use light ranch or a homemade yogurt-based ranch to reduce calories.
- Add extra chopped veggies (like celery, cucumbers, or bell peppers) to bulk it up without adding much fat or calories.
Conclusion
Recreating the Chicken Salad Chick Buffalo Barclay at home is simple, satisfying, and customizable. With just a few ingredients and easy steps, you can enjoy the bold, creamy flavor of this popular chicken salad anytime you like. Whether served on a croissant, in a lettuce wrap, or straight from the bowl, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Try it once, and you’ll keep coming back for more — spicy, savory, and irresistibly delicious!
FAQS
Chicken Salad Chick Buffalo Barclay Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by bringing a large pot of water to a boil. Add the chicken tenderloins and cook for 8 to 10 minutes or until no longer pink. Chicken should register 165 degrees (Fahrenheit) with a meat thermometer.
- Let the chicken cool.
- Move the chicken to a large mixing bowl and shred with your hand or stand mixer. This will help the chicken get super fine just like the restaurant version.
- Add the mayonnaise, seasonings, and wing sauce.
- Serve with crackers, toast, or on a salad.