Looking for a delicious, guilt-free twist on a classic summer favorite? This Buffalo Chicken Macaroni Salad is not only packed with bold, tangy flavors but also Weight Watcher friendly! Made with whole wheat elbow macaroni, lean shredded chicken, and a creamy dressing of nonfat Greek yogurt, light mayo, and zesty buffalo wing sauce, this dish is a perfect balance of indulgence and healthy eating. Crunchy celery, shredded carrot, and green onions add fresh texture, while optional blue cheese crumbles elevate it with a savory punch. Quick to prepare and served chilled, this lightened-up buffalo chicken pasta salad is ideal for meal prep, potlucks, or as a satisfying side dish. Ready in just 25 minutes, it's the perfect recipe to enjoy bold flavors while keeping your goals on track!
Cook the whole wheat elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse the pasta under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the plain nonfat Greek yogurt, light mayonnaise, and buffalo wing sauce until smooth and creamy.
Add the cooked and cooled macaroni, shredded or diced chicken breast, chopped celery, shredded carrot, and sliced green onions to the mixing bowl with the sauce. Toss well to evenly coat all the ingredients.
Season the salad with salt and black pepper to taste. If desired, sprinkle blue cheese crumbles on top for an extra touch of flavor (optional and adds points).
Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together.
Serve chilled. Enjoy as a light and flavorful meal or as a side dish.
Calories |
2260 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 56.5 g | 72% | |
| Saturated Fat | 19.0 g | 95% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 8.2 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 473 mg | 158% | |
| Sodium | 4014 mg | 175% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 218.1 g | 79% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 23.7 g | 85% | |
| Total Sugars | 30.6 g | ||
| Protein | 218.7 g | 437% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.3 mcg | 2% | |
| Calcium | 885 mg | 68% | |
| Iron | 16.0 mg | 89% | |
| Potassium | 3552 mg | 76% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.