Buffalo Chicken Chopped Salad

Experience a burst of bold flavors with this Buffalo Chicken Chopped Salad. It combines the fiery zest of buffalo-style chicken with the cooling crunch of fresh romaine and creamy blue cheese, making it an ideal choice for a satisfying lunch or a light, protein-packed dinner.

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This recipe transforms the classic game-day appetizer into a wholesome main course. By tossing freshly cooked chicken in a zesty hot sauce mixture, you get all the savory satisfaction of wings with the vibrant freshness of a chopped salad.

Ingredients

• Buffalo Chicken: 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (400g), 1/4 cup hot sauce, 2 tbsp unsalted butter, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
• Salad: 2 large hearts of romaine lettuce (chopped), 2 diced celery stalks, 1/4 finely diced red onion, 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes (optional), 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese, 1/4 cup shredded carrots.
• Dressing: 1/3 cup ranch or blue cheese dressing, plus 1 tbsp optional hot sauce for extra heat.

Instructions

Prepare the Buffalo Chicken

Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat. Cook chicken 5–6 minutes per side until it reaches an internal temperature of 74°C (165°F). After resting for 5 minutes, cut into bite-sized pieces and toss with hot sauce.

Assemble the Salad

In a large bowl, combine the chopped romaine, celery, red onion, cherry tomatoes, and carrots. Add the buffalo chicken and gently toss to distribute the ingredients. Sprinkle the crumbled blue cheese over the top.

Dress and Serve

Drizzle the entire salad with your choice of ranch or blue cheese dressing. Add extra hot sauce if you prefer more heat, toss lightly, and serve immediately for the best texture.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

For safety and the best flavor, ensure the chicken is fully cooked but not dry. Per serving, this dish contains approximately 350 calories, 27g of protein, and 22g of fat. Always check your hot sauce and dressing labels to confirm they are gluten-free and to identify potential allergens like milk or egg.

Varianten und Anpassungen

If you want even more texture, try adding sliced radishes or chopped cucumbers for extra crunch. To make this recipe vegetarian, simply substitute the chicken breasts with grilled tofu cubes prepared using the same buffalo seasoning method.

Serviervorschläge

This vibrant salad pairs exceptionally well with a crisp, cold lager or a chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc to cut through the spiciness. Serve it in chilled bowls to keep the vegetables crisp until the very last bite.

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Whether you are meal prepping for the week or looking for a quick dinner solution, this Buffalo Chicken Chopped Salad is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. It is easy, versatile, and packed with the zesty flavors you love.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I prepare the chicken ahead of time?

Yes, you can cook and coat the buffalo chicken up to 24 hours in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Assemble the salad just before serving to keep the greens fresh and crisp.

→ What dressing pairs best with this salad?

Ranch or blue cheese dressing complements the spicy buffalo chicken beautifully. If you prefer milder flavors, creamy parmesan dressing works well. For extra heat, mix additional hot sauce directly into your dressing.

→ How do I make this vegetarian?

Substitute 1 pound of grilled tofu, pressed and cubed, for the chicken. Toss the tofu in the same butter and hot sauce mixture, then follow the remaining assembly steps. The cooking time may differ slightly depending on tofu preparation.

→ Is this gluten-free friendly?

This salad can be made gluten-free by using certified gluten-free hot sauce and gluten-free blue cheese dressing. Always check packaged ingredient labels, as some brands may contain hidden gluten. The fresh vegetables and chicken are naturally gluten-free.

→ What vegetables can I add for extra crunch?

Consider adding sliced radishes, diced cucumber, shredded carrots (already included), or crispy bacon bits. Walnuts or pecans provide nutty crunch. You can also add sliced avocado for creaminess, though it's best added just before serving.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Store the buffalo chicken and dressing separately from the greens. Keep prepared lettuce mix, chicken, and dressing in airtight containers for up to 3 days. Assemble individual portions as needed to maintain freshness and prevent sogginess.