Buffalo Chicken Celery Sticks are the ultimate fusion of zesty flavor and crunchy texture—no fork required! These no-cook, low-carb appetizers are made by stuffing crisp celery sticks with shredded chicken drenched in Buffalo sauce, then topped with a cool touch of cheese. Perfectly portioned and irresistibly bold, they deliver a spicy kick with every bite, making them a crowd-pleaser for game day, snack time, or healthy lunchboxes.
This dish is great for those looking to enjoy their favorite Buffalo wings flavor without the greasy aftermath. With options to make it dairy-free or keto-friendly, it’s a recipe that adapts to your lifestyle. From weekday snack trays to weekend parties, Buffalo Chicken Celery Sticks offer a refreshing twist on traditional comfort food—flavor-packed, fuss-free, and perfect for dipping in ranch or blue cheese dressing!
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
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1 lb cooked chicken breast, shredded
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⅓ cup Buffalo wing sauce
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¼ cup plain Greek yogurt (or cream cheese)
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1 teaspoon garlic powder
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¼ teaspoon salt
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¼ teaspoon black pepper
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7–8 large celery stalks, cut into 3–4 inch pieces
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¼ cup crumbled blue cheese or shredded cheddar
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Optional: chopped parsley or green onions for garnish
Directions:
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In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, Buffalo wing sauce, Greek yogurt, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined and creamy.
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Wash and trim the celery stalks, then cut each into even-sized sticks approximately 3–4 inches long.
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Using a spoon or piping bag, fill the celery sticks with the Buffalo chicken mixture, pressing gently so the filling sits evenly.
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Top with crumbled blue cheese or shredded cheddar.
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Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or green onions if desired.
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Chill for 10–15 minutes for best texture, or serve immediately for a bold, spicy crunch.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 0 minutes | Total Time: 10 minutes
Kcal: 150 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
If you’re looking for a snack that’s packed with flavor, high in protein, and refreshingly low in carbs, Buffalo Chicken Celery Sticks might just become your new go-to. Combining the classic taste of spicy Buffalo chicken with the cool crunch of fresh celery, this dish offers a mouthwatering alternative to heavier appetizers without sacrificing any of the bold flavors people crave. Whether you’re prepping for game day, putting together a quick lunch, or seeking a healthier party platter option, these protein-rich bites are the definition of snack perfection.
A Bite-Sized History of Buffalo Chicken Flavor
The story of Buffalo chicken begins in Buffalo, New York, where the now-iconic Buffalo wing was first created in 1964 at the Anchor Bar. Traditionally made with deep-fried chicken wings coated in a spicy vinegar-based cayenne pepper sauce and served with celery and blue cheese dressing, the dish quickly became a staple in American sports bars and households alike.
Buffalo chicken has since evolved far beyond its winged origins, appearing in pizzas, dips, wraps, and now, in this ingenious low-carb recipe. Buffalo Chicken Celery Sticks are a creative and health-conscious twist on a flavor profile that’s nostalgic yet modern, comfort-inducing yet clean.
Why Buffalo Chicken Celery Sticks Are a Brilliant Choice
1. High Protein, Low Carb:
This recipe uses shredded cooked chicken—either breast meat or rotisserie—for a lean source of protein, making it ideal for those on a keto, low-carb, or high-protein diet. Each serving is satisfying and nourishing, helping you stay full longer and avoid blood sugar spikes that come with carb-heavy snacks.
2. Gut-Friendly Ingredients:
Using plain Greek yogurt instead of cream cheese or sour cream boosts the probiotic content of the filling while keeping the recipe creamy and flavorful. Greek yogurt also adds extra protein and calcium, aiding in digestion and bone health.
3. Refreshingly Crunchy:
Celery often gets overlooked in the vegetable world, but it’s a powerhouse of hydration and fiber. It’s 95% water and low in calories, making it a great vessel for bold fillings like spicy Buffalo chicken. Plus, that satisfying crunch makes every bite feel more indulgent than it really is.
4. Quick and Easy:
One of the biggest advantages of this recipe is its simplicity. With minimal ingredients and zero cooking time required (assuming your chicken is already prepared), you can whip up this dish in 10 minutes or less. It’s ideal for last-minute guests, snack cravings, or meal prep.
5. Customizable to All Diets:
Whether you’re dairy-free, gluten-free, or following paleo or Whole30, Buffalo Chicken Celery Sticks can easily be adjusted. Use a dairy-free yogurt or cream cheese substitute, choose a compliant Buffalo sauce (many are naturally gluten-free), and you’re all set.
Health Benefits of the Key Ingredients
- Chicken Breast: Lean and protein-dense, chicken breast is a complete protein source, containing all nine essential amino acids. It supports muscle repair, immune health, and satiety.
- Greek Yogurt: Rich in probiotics, calcium, and protein, Greek yogurt contributes to better digestion, stronger bones, and improved metabolism.
- Celery: A great source of antioxidants, vitamin K, and fiber. Its high water content makes it hydrating, and it’s known for supporting digestion and reducing inflammation.
- Buffalo Sauce: While spicy, cayenne pepper-based sauces have been linked to metabolism-boosting properties and may help reduce appetite.
- Blue Cheese or Cheddar (optional): A flavorful topping that adds creaminess and tang. While optional, it adds a bold finishing touch, and in small amounts, provides calcium and fat-soluble vitamins.
Perfect for Entertaining and Meal Prep
These celery boats make fantastic finger food for any gathering. Their vibrant color and tidy presentation make them party-ready without the mess of wings or dips. They’re portable, neat, and can be prepped ahead of time—just refrigerate and pull them out when you’re ready to serve.
For meal prep enthusiasts, these celery sticks store well in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge. They’re easy to pack for lunch, picnics, or even a post-workout snack that won’t leave you feeling sluggish.
Tips for Making the Best Buffalo Chicken Celery Sticks
- Use fresh, crisp celery stalks: The firmer the celery, the better it holds the filling and delivers that signature crunch.
- Rotisserie chicken saves time: For convenience, shredded rotisserie chicken works perfectly and brings extra flavor.
- Adjust spice to your liking: If you’re sensitive to heat, opt for a mild Buffalo sauce or blend it with extra yogurt. For extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne or crushed red pepper flakes.
- Balance the heat with cooling toppings: Blue cheese crumbles, chopped green onions, or a drizzle of ranch or creamy avocado dressing help mellow the spice and enhance flavor.
Delicious Serving Suggestions
- Game Day Platter: Pair these sticks with other healthy appetizers like guacamole, deviled eggs, and veggie skewers for a party-friendly spread.
- Lunchbox Hero: Add them to a bento box-style lunch with nuts, fruit, and a boiled egg for a well-rounded, energizing meal.
- Post-Workout Fuel: Quick, protein-heavy, and refreshing, these are excellent after a gym session or yoga class.
- Low-Carb Happy Hour: Serve them with sparkling water, light beer, or kombucha for a guilt-free cocktail hour snack.
Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try
Buffalo Chicken Celery Sticks strike the perfect balance between bold and healthy, spicy and creamy, simple and satisfying. They respect the beloved tradition of Buffalo chicken while introducing a contemporary flair suitable for modern diets and lifestyles.
This dish is about enjoying food that excites your palate and fits into your health goals without compromise. It’s a guilt-free indulgence, an easy crowd-pleaser, and a testament to how smart ingredient swaps can reinvent even the most classic recipes.
Conclusion
Buffalo Chicken Celery Sticks are more than just a quick appetizer—they’re a smart, flavorful solution for anyone seeking a healthier way to enjoy bold, spicy flavors. By swapping traditional breaded wings for crisp celery and using lean shredded chicken, this recipe delivers on taste while keeping carbs and calories in check. It’s versatile enough for meal prep, elegant enough for parties, and satisfying enough for any snack craving. Whether you’re following a low-carb lifestyle, looking to impress guests, or simply want something delicious and nourishing, these celery sticks offer the perfect bite-sized balance of heat, crunch, and creamy indulgence.