Crispy Buffalo Chicken Salad with Cilantro Ranch

This Crispy Buffalo Chicken Salad with Cilantro Ranch is a flavorful dish that combines crispy pan-fried chicken tenders with fresh greens and a zesty dressing. Perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep, it’s a healthy option that everyone will love. The combination of tangy buffalo sauce and creamy cilantro ranch makes this salad truly irresistible!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This salad can be made in just 25 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Packed with Flavor: The crispy chicken and zesty buffalo sauce create a delicious explosion of taste in every bite.
• Nutrient-Dense: Filled with fresh vegetables, healthy fats, and quality protein, it’s great for various diets.
• Versatile Options: You can easily customize the ingredients or use leftovers to suit your taste or dietary needs.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Great for prepping ahead of time, this dish keeps well in the fridge for easy lunches throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

Before starting your cooking adventure, gather the essential tools. Having everything on hand will make your preparation smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Non-stick skillet
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Non-stick skillet: Prevents the chicken from sticking and makes cleanup easier.
• Mixing bowls: Useful for whisking ingredients and preparing your salad components separately.

Ingredients

For the Salad Base

• 3 cups chopped romaine (or salad greens)
• 3 celery stalks (chopped)
• 1/2 cup shredded cabbage
• 1 cup shredded carrots
• 1 large avocado (sliced)
• Thinly sliced red onion (optional)

For the Chicken Tenders

• 1 lb chicken tenderloins
• 1 large egg (whisked)
• 3/4 cup blanched almond flour
• 1/4 cup tapioca flour (or arrowroot)
• 1 and 1/4 tsp fine grain sea salt
• 1/8 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/4 cup coconut oil or avocado oil (for frying)

For the Buffalo Sauce

• 1/3 cup Frank’s original hot sauce
• 1/4 cup ghee (melted)

For the Cilantro Ranch Dressing

• 1/2 cup homemade mayo or purchased paleo mayo
• 3 Tbsp coconut milk
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 2 Tbsp cilantro (minced)
• 1 tsp dried chives
• 1/4 tsp dried dill
• 1 tsp fresh lime juice
• 1/8-1/4 tsp salt (or to taste)

For Garnish

• Additional cilantro (for garnish)

How to Make Crispy Buffalo Chicken Salad with Cilantro Ranch

Step 1: Prepare the Dressing

Whisk all the dressing ingredients together in a bowl until smooth. Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.

Step 2: Arrange the Salad Base

In a large serving bowl, arrange all salad ingredients except for the avocado. Slice the avocado right before serving to prevent browning. Cover and refrigerate while you prepare the chicken.

Step 3: Prepare Chicken Coating

In one bowl, whisk the egg. In another bowl, combine almond flour, tapioca flour, salt, pepper, onion powder, and garlic powder.

Step 4: Heat Oil for Frying

Heat a large non-stick skillet over medium to medium-high heat. Add coconut oil or avocado oil once hot.

Step 5: Cook Chicken Tenders

Dip each piece of chicken in egg; shake off excess. Then coat with dry mixture before placing in the skillet. Cook on one side until golden brown (about 3 minutes), adjusting heat as needed. Turn carefully using tongs.

Step 6: Finish Cooking

Cook on the second side until golden brown outside and fully cooked inside—around 6 minutes total depending on thickness.

Step 7: Coat with Buffalo Sauce

Remove cooked chicken to a paper towel-lined plate to cool slightly. In a bowl, whisk together hot sauce and melted ghee. Dip each piece in this mixture to coat before placing on a cutting board.

Step 8: Assemble the Salad

Cut chicken into pieces if desired. Arrange it over your salad base, drizzling any leftover sauce on top. Add sliced avocado around the chicken.

Step 9: Serve Immediately

Serve immediately with cilantro ranch dressing on top or on the side. Enjoy your delicious Crispy Buffalo Chicken Salad!

How to Serve Crispy Buffalo Chicken Salad with Cilantro Ranch

This Crispy Buffalo Chicken Salad is perfect for a quick meal or a gathering. It’s versatile and can be served in various ways to elevate your dining experience.

As a Main Dish

• Serve the salad as a hearty main dish on its own. The protein from the chicken and the healthy fats from the avocado make it filling and satisfying.

In Lettuce Wraps

• Use large lettuce leaves as wraps for a fun, low-carb option. Fill the leaves with the salad mixture and enjoy it as a handheld meal.

With Extra Toppings

• Add toppings like sliced jalapeños or crumbled bacon for an extra kick of flavor and crunch. These enhancements can take your salad to the next level.

As Meal Prep

• Prepare individual servings in mason jars for easy grab-and-go lunches. Layer the dressing at the bottom, followed by veggies, chicken, and greens at the top.

Family Style Platter

• Arrange all ingredients on a large platter for family-style serving. This allows everyone to customize their salad according to their preferences.

How to Perfect Crispy Buffalo Chicken Salad with Cilantro Ranch

To ensure your Crispy Buffalo Chicken Salad turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh greens and ripe avocados enhance flavor and texture. Always choose high-quality produce for the best results.
• Heat oil properly: Make sure your frying oil is hot enough before adding chicken. This prevents soggy breading and ensures crispy tenders.
• Let chicken rest: After frying, let the chicken cool slightly before adding it to the salad. This helps maintain crunchiness when mixed.
• Customize flavors: Feel free to adjust spices in both the chicken breading and ranch dressing. Personalize it based on your taste preferences.

Best Side Dishes for Crispy Buffalo Chicken Salad with Cilantro Ranch

Complement your Crispy Buffalo Chicken Salad with these delicious side dishes that align perfectly with your dietary needs.

1. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: These naturally sweet sides add fiber and nutrients while being simple to prepare.
2. Cauliflower Rice: A light alternative that adds volume without many carbs; pair it with herbs for flavor.
3. Steamed Broccoli: This nutrient-dense green vegetable is easy to make and provides essential vitamins.
4. Zucchini Noodles: A fun way to incorporate more veggies; serve them lightly sautéed or raw with olive oil.
5. Crispy Green Beans: Tossed with olive oil and seasoning, these are a crunchy addition that complements any meal.
6. Grilled Asparagus: A sophisticated side that pairs well with chicken; simply grill until tender for best results.
7. Stuffed Bell Peppers: Fill them with leftover salad ingredients or grains for a nutritious option.
8. Avocado Fries: For those who love avocados, these baked fries make an indulgent yet healthy side dish option.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a Crispy Buffalo Chicken Salad with Cilantro Ranch {Paleo, Whole30, Keto} can be easy, but there are common pitfalls to watch for.

• Using the wrong oil for frying: Opt for coconut or avocado oil. Other oils may not withstand high heat well, leading to soggy chicken.
• Skipping seasoning on chicken: Don’t overlook seasoning the breading. Properly seasoning your chicken ensures a flavorful result that enhances the entire salad.
• Not letting the chicken cool before cutting: If you cut the chicken immediately after cooking, juices may escape. Allowing it to cool slightly keeps it moist.
• Preparing dressing too late: Make the cilantro ranch dressing ahead of time. This allows flavors to meld together and saves time during meal prep.
• Cutting avocado too early: Slice avocado right before serving. This prevents browning and keeps your salad looking fresh.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Best consumed within 3 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Crispy Buffalo Chicken Salad with Cilantro Ranch {Paleo, Whole30, Keto}

• Chicken can be frozen separately from salad ingredients.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Consume within 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Crispy Buffalo Chicken Salad with Cilantro Ranch {Paleo, Whole30, Keto}

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat chicken on a baking sheet until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place chicken on a microwave-safe plate and cover. Heat in short intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over medium heat to warm chicken gently without drying it out.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this Crispy Buffalo Chicken Salad with Cilantro Ranch {Paleo, Whole30, Keto} ahead of time?

Yes! You can prep the salad ingredients and store them separately. Dress just before serving for freshness.

How do I customize my Crispy Buffalo Chicken Salad?

Feel free to add other vegetables or toppings like cucumbers or cherry tomatoes based on your preferences!

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This salad is great for meal prep as you can easily assemble it in advance without sacrificing taste.

What can I substitute if I don’t have ghee?

You can use unsalted butter or olive oil as alternatives in this recipe while maintaining its flavor profile.

How spicy is the buffalo sauce?

The spiciness depends on the brand of hot sauce used. Adjust the amount according to your heat preference for milder or spicier results.

Final Thoughts

This Crispy Buffalo Chicken Salad with Cilantro Ranch {Paleo, Whole30, Keto} is not only delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion. Whether you’re preparing it for a quick weeknight dinner or a healthy lunch option, feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients. Give it a try—you won’t be disappointed!

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Crispy Buffalo Chicken Salad with Cilantro Ranch

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Crispy Buffalo Chicken Salad with Cilantro Ranch is a deliciously satisfying dish that brings together crispy chicken tenders, vibrant greens, and a creamy, zesty dressing. This salad is perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping, providing a healthy yet indulgent option that everyone will enjoy. The combination of tangy buffalo sauce and homemade cilantro ranch dressing creates a delightful balance of flavors that elevates your dining experience. Packed with fresh vegetables and quality protein, this salad not only tastes great but also supports your dietary needs. Whether served as a main dish or in fun lettuce wraps, this Crispy Buffalo Chicken Salad is sure to become a favorite.

• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb chicken tenderloins
• 3 cups chopped romaine lettuce
• 1 large avocado
• 1/3 cup Frank’s original hot sauce
• 1/2 cup homemade mayo or paleo mayo
• Fresh cilantro

Instructions

1. Whisk together the cilantro ranch dressing ingredients in a bowl; refrigerate until serving.
2. In a serving bowl, combine romaine lettuce, celery, cabbage, shredded carrots, and cover while preparing the chicken.
3. Prepare chicken by dipping in egg wash and coating with almond flour mixture before frying in heated oil until golden brown and cooked through.
4. Toss the cooked chicken in buffalo sauce to coat.
5. Assemble the salad by placing chicken over the vegetable base and adding sliced avocado on top.
6. Serve immediately with cilantro ranch dressing drizzled on top.

• Author: Juniper
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 salad bowl
• Calories: 480
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 680mg
• Fat: 32g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Unsaturated Fat: 20g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Fiber: 8g
• Protein: 36g
• Cholesterol: 100mg

Keywords: Customize your salad by adding extra veggies like cherry tomatoes or cucumbers. For meal prep, store salad ingredients separately and dress just before serving to maintain freshness.