Merken This Buffalo Chicken Chopped Salad is a vibrant and zesty dish that brings the classic American flavors of spicy buffalo wings to a fresh, crisp salad. Featuring finely chopped romaine, spicy buffalo-style chicken, and creamy blue cheese, it serves as the perfect quick lunch or a light, flavorful dinner.
Merken The beauty of a chopped salad lies in its texture; every bite is a harmonious mix of crunchy vegetables and tender, sauce-coated chicken. Whether you're a buffalo wing enthusiast or just looking for a refreshing meal with a kick, this salad delivers on every level.
Ingredients
- Buffalo Chicken: 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 400 g / 14 oz), 1/4 cup hot sauce (e.g., Franks RedHot), 2 tbsp unsalted butter, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, salt and black pepper to taste.
- Salad: 2 large hearts of romaine lettuce (finely chopped), 2 celery stalks (diced), 1/4 small red onion (finely diced), 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes (halved, optional), 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese, 1/4 cup shredded carrots.
- Dressing: 1/3 cup ranch or blue cheese dressing, 1 tbsp hot sauce (optional, for extra heat).
Instructions
- Step 1: Prepare the Buffalo Chicken
- Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the chicken and cook for 5–6 minutes per side until fully cooked (internal temp 74°C/165°F). Remove from heat and let rest for 5 minutes before cutting into bite-sized pieces. Toss the cooked chicken with hot sauce in a bowl until evenly coated.
- Step 2: Assemble the Salad
- In a large bowl, combine the chopped romaine, celery, red onion, cherry tomatoes (if using), and shredded carrots. Add the prepared buffalo chicken and gently toss using salad tongs. Sprinkle the crumbled blue cheese over the top.
- Step 3: Dress and Serve
- Drizzle the salad with ranch or blue cheese dressing and add extra hot sauce if desired. Toss lightly once more and serve immediately.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
Using a chef's knife to finely dice the vegetables ensures that you get a bit of everything in every mouthful. Letting the chicken rest after cooking is a crucial step to keep it juicy before it is tossed in the buffalo sauce.
Varianten und Anpassungen
For extra crunch, consider adding sliced radishes or chopped cucumber. If you are looking for a vegetarian version, substitute grilled tofu for the chicken. Always double-check labels on hot sauce and dressings to ensure they are gluten-free if needed.
Serviervorschläge
This salad is best enjoyed immediately while the chicken is still warm. It pairs beautifully with a crisp, cold lager or a chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc to balance the spicy buffalo heat.
Merken This Buffalo Chicken Chopped Salad is a fantastic way to enjoy bold flavors in a light and healthy format. It’s a versatile dish that works just as well for a quick weekday meal as it does for a casual weekend lunch.
