Name: Buffalo Chicken Chopped Salad
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts; to taste kosher salt; to taste pepper; 1 tablespoon garlic powder; to taste buffalo wing sauce; 4 carrots; 4 celery stalks; 1 seedless cucumber; 8 to 10 cups chopped romaine hearts; 4 green onions; ½ cup crumbled blue cheese; ½ cup chopped cilantro; ¼ cup chopped chives; to taste ranch dressing

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There’s something incredibly satisfying about a fresh salad, especially when it combines the bold flavors of buffalo chicken like in this Buffalo Chicken Chopped Salad. On a warm summer evening, I found myself craving a dish that was vibrant, filling, and packed with flavor. That’s when I decided to whip up this delightful salad. Imagine enjoying a sunny day with a refreshing meal that brings together crispy veggies and zesty chicken, all drizzled with ranch dressing. It’s perfect for gatherings, barbecues, or a simple dinner at home.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
35 mins

Prep Time:
20 mins

Cook Time:
15 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
320 kcal

Protein:
30 g

Diet:
Keto, Gluten-Free

Fat:
18 g

Tools Used:
Chef’s Knife, Peeler

Why You Need This Buffalo Chicken Chopped Salad

Why This Recipe Stands Out

Let me tell you why this Buffalo Chicken Chopped Salad is a must-try!

Fresh Ingredients

Each bite of this salad is a burst of freshness. The combination of chopped romaine, carrots, celery, and cucumbers creates a crunchy base that pairs beautifully with the tender, flavorful chicken. When you use fresh produce, the salad not only tastes better but also brings a vibrant color to your plate.

Perfect Balance of Flavors

This salad perfectly balances the spicy kick of buffalo sauce with the creamy coolness of ranch dressing. The addition of blue cheese adds a rich, tangy flavor that makes it incredibly satisfying. It’s a delightful harmony of spicy and creamy that keeps you coming back for more.

Quick and Easy to Prepare

If you’re looking for a meal that comes together quickly, this is it! The grilled chicken cooks in just a few minutes, and while it rests, you can chop the veggies. It’s an ideal weekday dinner that doesn’t require hours in the kitchen.

Great for Any Occasion

Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or just craving a light meal, this salad fits the bill. It’s versatile enough to be served as a main course or as a side dish. Everyone loves it, making it a great crowd-pleaser!

Healthy and Nutritious

This Buffalo Chicken Chopped Salad is packed with nutrients. The fresh veggies provide essential vitamins and minerals while the chicken offers a good source of protein. It’s a guilt-free way to enjoy a flavorful meal without compromising on health.

Shopping List for Buffalo Chicken Chopped Salad

The ingredients in this salad work together beautifully to create a dish that’s not only delicious but also visually appealing. The key players, like buffalo wing sauce and blue cheese, bring an exciting flavor profile that elevates simple ingredients into something extraordinary.

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star of this salad, providing protein and flavor.
Kosher salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning the chicken and enhancing the overall taste.
Garlic powder: Adds depth of flavor to the chicken without overpowering the other ingredients.
Buffalo wing sauce: This is what gives the salad its signature spicy kick. Choose your favorite brand for the best taste!
4 carrots, peeled and chopped: Adds a touch of sweetness and crunch.
4 celery stalks, chopped: Provides a refreshing crunch and is low in calories.
1 seedless cucumber, peeled and chopped: A cool addition that balances the spice of the buffalo sauce.
8 to 10 cups chopped romaine hearts: This leafy base provides the bulk of the salad and a satisfying crunch.
4 green onions, thinly sliced: Offers a mild onion flavor that enhances the freshness.
½ cup crumbled blue cheese: A tangy addition that complements the buffalo sauce beautifully.
½ cup chopped cilantro: Adds a burst of freshness and a unique flavor.
¼ cup chopped chives: Light and mild, chives are a lovely finishing touch.
Ranch dressing, for serving: Drizzle over the salad for a creamy finish, balancing out the heat from the buffalo sauce.

Making This Buffalo Chicken Chopped Salad

Creating this Buffalo Chicken Chopped Salad is a simple and enjoyable process. Start with the chicken, as it takes the longest to cook. Follow the steps below to assemble a delicious salad that everyone will love!

Preheat your grill to the highest setting. If you don’t have a grill, don’t worry! You can also cook the chicken in a skillet or oven. The goal is to get a nice sear on the outside.
Season the chicken all over with kosher salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Make sure to rub the seasonings in well, so you get maximum flavor. You can even drizzle a little buffalo wing sauce on it for extra flavor.
Grill the chicken for about 5 to 6 minutes per side, or until it’s cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees F. Use a meat thermometer to check; it’s always a good idea to ensure it’s fully cooked.
Once the chicken is perfectly grilled, let it rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, making the meat tender and juicy.
While the chicken is resting, chop the carrots, celery, cucumbers, and green onions. Aim for even-sized pieces; this ensures each bite is consistent. Place the chopped romaine lettuce in a large bowl.
Combine all the chopped veggies and toss them together with a pinch of salt and pepper. This simple step enhances their flavors and helps everything mix well.
Once the chicken has rested, slice or chop it into bite-sized pieces. Toss it with a few tablespoons of buffalo wing sauce so that each piece is coated.
Add the sauced chicken to the bowl of veggies and toss everything together gently. You want the flavors to blend without squishing the veggies.
To finish, drizzle the entire salad with ranch dressing and add more wing sauce if you want extra kick. Toss lightly to combine everything, ensuring every ingredient is coated.
Serve the salad immediately. It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can also chill it for a bit if you prefer a colder salad.

Things Worth Knowing

Grilling Tips: Make sure your grill is preheated properly. This helps achieve those beautiful grill marks and ensures even cooking.
Resting the Chicken: Letting the grilled chicken rest is key! It locks in juices and keeps the meat from being dry.
Preparation: Chop your veggies while the chicken is cooking. This saves time and ensures everything comes together quickly.
Balance the Heat: If you find the buffalo sauce too spicy, you can always add more ranch or use a milder sauce for the chicken.

Pro Tips and Tweaks

Enhance your cooking experience with these handy tips for making the most delicious Buffalo Chicken Chopped Salad.

Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The chicken may dry out, so consider adding more dressing when serving again.
Freezing: It’s best not to freeze the assembled salad as the veggies may become soggy. Instead, freeze the cooked chicken separately and add fresh veggies when ready to serve.
Variations: Feel free to swap out the chicken for grilled shrimp or tofu for a different protein option.
Serving Size: This salad makes a great meal prep option. Just keep the dressing separate until serving to prevent sogginess.
Make it a Wrap: You can also turn this salad into a wrap by using a large tortilla. Just add the ingredients and roll it up for a delicious lunch!

What Goes Well With This Buffalo Chicken Chopped Salad

There are so many delicious accompaniments for the Buffalo Chicken Chopped Salad. Here are some ideas:

Grilled Vegetables: Pair this salad with grilled seasonal vegetables. Zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus complement the flavors perfectly.
Garlic Bread: Crunchy garlic bread is great for soaking up any extra ranch dressing or buffalo sauce.
Fruit Salad: A sweet fruit salad can provide a nice contrast to the spiciness of the buffalo chicken.
Chips: Serve the salad alongside tortilla chips for a crunchy side that adds texture.
Occasions: This salad is perfect for casual summer dinners, picnics, or gatherings with friends. It’s light yet filling, making it a go-to choice!

FAQ

Yes, you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time. However, I recommend keeping the ranch dressing separate until you’re ready to serve to avoid sogginess. Store the chopped vegetables and cooked chicken in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to two days.

If you love spice, consider adding more buffalo wing sauce to the chicken or mixing some hot sauce into the ranch dressing for an extra kick. You can also add sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the salad for added heat.

This Buffalo Chicken Chopped Salad pairs wonderfully with grilled vegetables, garlic bread, or even a fresh fruit salad. These sides add variety and texture to your meal, making it even more enjoyable.

Absolutely! You can swap the grilled chicken for grilled shrimp, tofu, or even rotisserie chicken if you’re short on time. Each protein will bring its unique flavor, allowing you to customize the salad to your liking.

Conclusion

The Buffalo Chicken Chopped Salad is a delightful dish that combines fresh, crisp ingredients with the bold flavors of buffalo chicken and creamy dressing. It’s a versatile salad that can be enjoyed at any gathering or as a quick weeknight meal. I encourage you to try making it soon; you won’t be disappointed with the vibrant flavors and satisfying crunch!