This Buffalo Ranch Chicken Salad is a tasty mix of spicy buffalo chicken and creamy ranch dressing. It’s great as a light meal or a side dish!
I love to add crunchy veggies like celery and carrots for that extra crunch. Perfect for lunch or a picnic—just grab a fork and dig in! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Chicken breasts are lean and cook quickly. You can substitute with thighs for a juicier option. If you’re short on time, rotisserie chicken is an excellent choice, too.
Buffalo Wing Sauce: Frank’s RedHot is a favorite for its unique hot flavor. If you’re looking for a milder version, try a hot sauce like Sriracha or a homemade blend using cayenne pepper mixed with butter.
Romaine Lettuce: Romaine adds crunch, but you can mix it up with other greens. Spinach, kale, or even a spring mix works well, depending on what you have on hand.
Blue Cheese: If you’re not a fan of blue cheese, feta or goat cheese can be tasty alternatives. They bring similar creaminess to the salad.
How Do You Cook Chicken to Perfection?
Cooking chicken correctly is key to this salad. Here’s how to ensure it’s juicy and flavorful:
- Start with drying the chicken. Patting it dry helps it sear nicely.
- Heat your skillet or grill to medium-high before adding the chicken — this helps with that delicious brown crust.
- Once cooked, let the chicken rest for a few minutes. This keeps it juicy!
- Slice it against the grain for tender bites.
This technique will keep your chicken flavorful and enjoyable in every bite!
Buffalo Ranch Chicken Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 2 large chicken breasts (about 1 lb)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/3 cup buffalo wing sauce (e.g., Frank’s RedHot)
- 6 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
- 1/2 cup shredded carrots
- 1/4 cup sliced radishes
- 1/3 cup crumbled blue cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For the Dressing:
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing
- 2 tbsp buffalo wing sauce (optional, for extra kick)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This scrumptious salad will take about 25 minutes from start to finish. This includes roughly 15 minutes for prepping and cooking the chicken, and another 10 minutes for assembling your tasty salad and dressing!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Chicken:
Start by patting the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This helps them sear nicely! In a medium bowl, toss the chicken with olive oil, and season lightly with salt and pepper. This adds flavor that you’ll taste in every bite!
2. Cooking the Chicken:
Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Once it’s nice and hot, add the chicken breasts. Cook them for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until they are fully cooked and beautifully charred. They’ll smell amazing!
3. Tossing with Buffalo Sauce:
After the chicken is done, remove it from the heat and let it rest for a few minutes. Then slice it into strips and toss it with buffalo wing sauce in a bowl until it’s well-coated. This adds that spicy, flavorful kick!
4. Preparing the Salad Base:
In a large bowl, combine the chopped romaine lettuce, shredded carrots, sliced radishes, and crumbled blue cheese. This mix brings together crunchy veggies and creamy goodness.
5. Making the Dressing:
In a small bowl, mix ranch dressing with 2 tablespoons of buffalo sauce if you like it spicy. This will give your salad a creamy, zesty finish!
6. Assembling the Salad:
Now, arrange those delicious buffalo chicken strips right on top of your salad mixture. Drizzle your homemade buffalo ranch dressing over the top to bring it all together. Yum!
7. Garnishing and Serving:
Lastly, sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over your salad for a pop of color and extra freshness. Serve immediately and enjoy every spicy, tangy, and creamy bite of this Buffalo Ranch Chicken Salad!
This salad is perfect for lunch or dinner, bringing a flavorful twist to your meal. Enjoy! 🌶️🥗
Can I Use Grilled Chicken Leftovers for This Salad?
Absolutely! Grilled chicken leftovers are perfect for this salad. Just slice them up and toss them with buffalo sauce. It’s a great way to repurpose your meals!
How Can I Make This Recipe Lower in Calories?
To reduce calories, consider using skinless chicken breasts, a lighter ranch dressing, or Greek yogurt as an alternative. You can also reduce the amount of buffalo sauce for less heat and calories.
What Vegetables Can I Add or Substitute?
You can add or substitute various veggies like diced bell peppers, cucumbers, or even avocados. These additions can enhance flavor and provide more nutrients, so feel free to customize!
How Long Will Leftover Salad Last in the Fridge?
Leftover salad can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat to prevent the lettuce from getting soggy.
