Buffalo Chicken Salad Recipe You’ll Fall In Love With
Discover the ultimate buffalo chicken salad recipe! Quick, flavorful, and healthy, this dish is perfect for any meal. Try it today and satisfy your cravings!
Servings: 4 Serving
Calories: 320kcal
Ingredients
For the Buffalo Chicken
- 2 large chicken breasts – Boneless and skinless perfect for lean protein.
- 1/3 cup buffalo sauce – For that iconic tangy and spicy flavor.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil – Keeps the chicken juicy and adds a subtle richness.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder – A simple seasoning that enhances the savory notes.
For the Salad Base
- 4 cups romaine lettuce – Crisp and refreshing the ideal salad foundation.
- 1/2 cup shredded carrots – Adds sweetness and crunch.
- 1/2 cup sliced celery – Complements the buffalo sauce with a fresh crisp bite.
- 1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese – Optional but highly recommended for creamy tanginess.
For the Dressing
- 1/3 cup ranch or blue cheese dressing – Choose your favorite for a creamy drizzle.
- 1 tablespoon buffalo sauce – Mix it in for an extra kick of spice.
Optional Toppings
- Sliced avocado – Adds creaminess and healthy fats.
- Chopped green onions – For a pop of freshness.
- Tortilla strips – A crunchy garnish for extra texture.
Pro Tip:
- Fresh ingredients make all the difference in this recipe. Opt for crisp lettuce juicy chicken, and quality dressings to ensure every bite is packed with flavor. And don’t forget—buffalo sauce can vary in heat, so adjust it to suit your spice preference!
- With these ingredients ready to go you’re all set to create a salad that’s bold, balanced, and bursting with flavor. Let’s move on to how to put it all together!
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Season and Sear: Pat the chicken breasts dry, then season them with garlic powder and a pinch of salt. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and sear the chicken for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Add the Buffalo Sauce: Reduce the heat to low, pour the buffalo sauce over the chicken, and let it simmer for 5 minutes, flipping occasionally to coat the chicken evenly.
- Shred or Slice: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes. Shred it into bite-sized pieces or slice it thinly, depending on your preference.
Step 2: Assemble the Salad
- Build the Base: Spread the romaine lettuce evenly across a large bowl or platter.
- Add the Veggies: Layer the shredded carrots and sliced celery on top of the greens for a burst of crunch and color.
- Top with Chicken: Arrange the warm buffalo chicken pieces over the salad base, making sure they’re evenly distributed.
Step 3: Add the Finishing Touches
- Drizzle the Dressing: In a small bowl, mix the ranch or blue cheese dressing with a tablespoon of buffalo sauce for a spicy twist. Drizzle it generously over the salad.
- Optional Toppings: Sprinkle crumbled blue cheese, sliced avocado, green onions, or tortilla strips over the top for added flavor and texture.
Pro Tip:
- For extra convenience, you can grill the chicken instead of pan-searing it or use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken tossed in buffalo sauce to save time.
- And that’s it! With just a few simple steps, you’ve created a delicious, wholesome buffalo chicken salad that’s perfect for any occasion. Time to dig in!
Notes
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 30g
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 2g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
- Sodium: 870mg