Name: Buffalo Chicken Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 8 min
Total time: 23 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1.25 lbs chicken breast, diced; 1 carrot, chopped; 1 celery stalk, chopped; 2 green onions, chopped and divided; 1/4 cup buffalo sauce; 2 tbsp chives, chopped; 1/4 cup blue cheese, crumbled; 3 romaine hearts, chopped; Ranch dressing or dressing of choice

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This creamy Buffalo Chicken Salad is a delightful twist on the classic dish, marrying the bold flavors of buffalo sauce with crunchy vegetables and tender chicken. If you’re looking to switch up your salad routine, this dish will certainly hit the spot. Imagine tender pieces of chicken tossed in zesty buffalo sauce, resting on a bed of fresh romaine lettuce, accented by crisp carrots, crunchy celery, and vibrant green onions. It’s light yet satisfying, making it great for lunch on a busy day or dinner with friends. The mix of textures and flavors keep this salad from feeling flat, offering a punchy kick that will keep your taste buds humming. Plus, with easy-to-find ingredients, you can whip up this salad in no time!

Why This Recipe Works

This Buffalo Chicken Salad combines tender, flavorful chicken with a medley of fresh vegetables, creating a satisfying dish that’s both healthy and hearty. The secret lies in balancing the zesty buffalo sauce with a variety of textures, making each bite a delightful experience. Without the heaviness of mayo or yogurt, this salad is light yet fulfilling, making it perfect for any meal.

Why You’ll Love This Buffalo Chicken Salad

Whether you’re meal prepping for the week ahead or looking for a crowd-pleasing dish for a casual gathering, this Buffalo Chicken Salad effortlessly strikes a chord with both casual and discerning palates. The vibrant flavors and crunch of fresh veggies paired with the spicy, tangy goodness of buffalo chicken will keep you coming back for more. It’s a recipe that caters to your cravings while keeping nutrition in mind.

Ingredients

1.25 lbs chicken breast, diced
1 carrot, chopped
1 celery stalk, chopped
2 green onions, chopped and divided
1/4 cup buffalo sauce
2 tbsp chives, chopped
1/4 cup blue cheese, crumbled
3 romaine hearts, chopped
Ranch dressing or dressing of choice

Cooking the Chicken

Heat the Skillet

Start by spraying a large skillet with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Cook the Chicken

Add the diced chicken breast to the skillet. Season generously with salt and pepper. Cook over medium heat until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Once done, transfer the chicken to a large bowl to cool slightly.

Mixing the Salad

Combine Ingredients

In the bowl with the cooked chicken, add the chopped carrot, celery, and 1 green onion. Pour in the buffalo sauce and stir everything together until well combined.

Assembling the Salad

Prepare the Bowls

Divide the chopped romaine lettuce into four bowls to create a bed for your colorful and flavorful chicken mixture.

Top with Chicken Mixture

Spoon the buffalo chicken mixture over the romaine evenly.

Add Finishing Touches

Sprinkle each bowl with chopped chives and crumbled blue cheese for an extra layer of flavor. You can then drizzle with ranch dressing or your dressing of choice to finish.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this Buffalo Chicken Salad immediately for the best taste and freshness. It can be enjoyed as a light lunch, dinner, or even as a meal prep option for the week. Pair it with whole grain crackers for a delightful crunch.

Tips for Success

Ensure chicken is fully cooked by checking it has reached an internal temperature of 165°F.
Feel free to adjust the amount of buffalo sauce to match your spice preference.
Experiment with different types of greens if you prefer something other than romaine.

Variations

Substitute the blue cheese with feta or goat cheese for a different flavor.
Add in other ingredients like avocado or cherry tomatoes for extra nutrition and freshness.
For a lower-carb version, skip the romaine and serve the chicken mix over zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice.

Storage Tips

Store leftover salad components separately in airtight containers to maintain freshness. The buffalo chicken mixture can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days, while the salad greens will last about 2 days.

Pairing Ideas

This salad goes well with a side of sweet potato fries or grilled corn on the cob. Consider pairing it with a light beer or a refreshing iced tea for a complete meal experience.

FAQs

1. Can I prepare this salad in advance?
Yes, you can pre-cook the chicken and chop the vegetables ahead of time. However, assemble the salad just before serving to keep the lettuce crisp.

2. Is this Buffalo Chicken Salad gluten-free?
Yes, as long as the buffalo sauce and dressing you choose are gluten-free, this salad can be made gluten-free.

3. How can I make this recipe spicier?
Increase the amount of buffalo sauce or add a dash of cayenne pepper for an extra kick.

4. What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Store the chicken mixture and salad greens in separate airtight containers in the fridge for optimal freshness.

5. Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and will add robust flavor to your salad.

This Buffalo Chicken Salad offers a fantastic blend of flavors and textures, bringing joy to mealtime with its healthy ingredients and easy preparation. Perfect for busy days or gatherings, it’s a versatile dish that appeals to various palates, serving both flavor and nutritional needs. Enjoy every bite!