This Buffalo Chicken Salad is a spicy, twist on your regular salad. Filled with tender chicken, crunchy veggies, and a tangy dressing, it’s a meal that packs a punch!
And let’s be honest, who wouldn’t want to eat salad if it tastes like wings? I love adding extra ranch dressing for that creamy goodness. Perfect for lunch or a light dinner!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breast: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the star here! If you want something quicker, use leftover rotisserie chicken. It’s already cooked and shredded, making prep a breeze.
Buffalo Wing Sauce: I love Frank’s RedHot for its classic flavor. If you prefer milder spice, look for a buffalo sauce that says “mild” or you can make your own by mixing hot sauce with melted butter.
Mixed Greens: A blend of romaine and spinach gives both crunch and nutrition. You can swap with kale, arugula, or your favorite lettuce. Just remember that more delicate greens like arugula can wilt faster.
Blue Cheese: Blue cheese adds a distinctive flavor, but if it’s not your thing, try feta or goat cheese instead for that creamy texture.
How Do You Cook the Chicken for This Salad?
The chicken is crucial for flavor, so you’ll want to get it just right. Here’s how to cook it perfectly:
- Begin with a hot grill or skillet to get a nice sear.
- Season the chicken with salt and pepper before applying the buffalo sauce for depth of flavor.
- Cook for 5-7 minutes per side. Watch for a nice golden-brown color on each side.
- Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing to keep it juicy!
With these tips, your Buffalo Chicken Salad will be packed with flavor and freshness, making it a hit at any meal!
Buffalo Chicken Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup buffalo wing sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
For the Salad:
- 6 cups mixed greens (romaine, spinach, etc.)
- 1/2 cup shredded carrots
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup cucumber, sliced
- 1/4 cup diced red onion
- 1/2 avocado, diced
- 1/4 cup blue cheese crumbles
- Ranch dressing, for drizzling
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Olive oil or cooking spray, for cooking
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Buffalo Chicken Salad will take about 30 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend around 10 minutes cooking the chicken and chopping vegetables, with some time to let the chicken rest before slicing. The rest is assembling the salad, which is easy and quick!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Chicken:
Start by preheating your grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Lightly season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then brush them with buffalo wing sauce, making sure to coat them evenly. Grill or cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Once done, take the chicken off the heat and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing into strips.
2. Preparing the Salad Base:
While the chicken rests, take a large salad bowl or plate and arrange the mixed greens as your base. This will create a lovely bed for all the other delicious ingredients!
3. Adding Fresh Veggies:
Now it’s time to add your colorful veggies! Scatter the shredded carrots, halved cherry tomatoes, sliced cucumber, diced red onion, and avocado on top of the mixed greens. Feel free to get creative with the placement—it’s all about presentation!
4. Finishing Touches:
Now, place the sliced buffalo chicken on top of the salad. Sprinkle blue cheese crumbles all over for that extra flavor punch. Finally, drizzle ranch dressing over the entire salad—add as much or as little as you like!
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Gently toss the salad if you prefer a mixed flavor or serve it as is, allowing each person to mix it themselves. Enjoy this flavorful and colorful Buffalo Chicken Salad, bursting with spicy and creamy goodness!
Can I Use Pre-Cooked Chicken for This Salad?
Absolutely! Using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver. Just shred it, toss it with buffalo sauce, and you’re ready to assemble your salad.
What Can I Substitute for Buffalo Wing Sauce?
If you’re sensitive to spice, you can substitute with a milder hot sauce or blend hot sauce with a bit of melted butter for a homemade buffalo sauce. Adjust the amount based on your heat preference!
How Long Will Leftovers Last?
Leftover salad can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. However, it’s best to keep the dressing on the side to prevent the greens from wilting.
Can I Add More Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to customize your salad with other fresh veggies like bell peppers, radishes, or even corn. Just make sure to chop them so they blend well with the rest of the ingredients!
