Buffalo Ranch Crispy Chicken Salad Recipe

Introduction

This Buffalo Ranch Crispy Chicken Salad is a perfect blend of spicy, tangy, and fresh flavors wrapped in a crunchy texture. Ready in just 25 minutes, it’s ideal for a quick lunch or light dinner that feels special.

Ingredients

• 2 cups chopped romaine lettuce
• 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/4 cup shredded carrots
• 1/4 cup chopped cucumbers
• 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
• 1/2 lb boneless chicken tenders
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 egg, beaten
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1/4 tsp paprika
• Oil for frying
• 2 tbsp buffalo sauce
• 2 tbsp ranch dressing

Instructions

1. Step 1: Season the chicken tenders with salt, black pepper, and paprika evenly on all sides.
2. Step 2: Dredge each tender in flour, then dip into the beaten egg, and finally coat with breadcrumbs to cover thoroughly.
3. Step 3: Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry the chicken tenders for 4–5 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels, then slice into strips.
4. Step 4: In a large bowl, layer the chopped romaine lettuce, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, shredded carrots, and shredded cheddar cheese if using.
5. Step 5: Top the salad with the warm, crispy chicken strips.
6. Step 6: Drizzle buffalo sauce and ranch dressing over the entire salad.
7. Step 7: Serve immediately to enjoy the combination of warm chicken and fresh vegetables.

Tips & Variations

• For a healthier version, bake the breaded chicken tenders at 400°F (200°C) for 15–20 minutes instead of frying.
• Add sliced avocado or hard-boiled eggs for extra creaminess and protein.
• Use your favorite hot sauce if buffalo sauce isn’t available, or mix buffalo and honey for a sweet spicy twist.

Storage

Store any leftover chicken and salad components separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat the chicken strips in a skillet or oven until crispy again before adding to fresh salad greens. Avoid mixing salad and dressing until ready to serve to keep vegetables crisp.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare this salad in advance?

You can prep the vegetables and cook the chicken ahead, but assemble and dress the salad just before serving to maintain crispness and freshness.

What can I use instead of ranch dressing?

You can substitute ranch with blue cheese dressing, a simple yogurt-based dressing, or even a light vinaigrette depending on your taste preference.

Buffalo Ranch Crispy Chicken Salad Recipe

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★★★★★

4.5 from 138 reviews

• Author: Naomi
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 2 servings 1x

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Description

This Buffalo Ranch Crispy Chicken Salad combines crunchy fried chicken tenders with fresh romaine lettuce, vibrant vegetables, and a tangy buffalo ranch dressing. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal, this salad delivers a delightful blend of spicy, creamy, and savory flavors in just 25 minutes.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Salad Ingredients

• 2 cups chopped romaine lettuce
• 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/4 cup shredded carrots
• 1/4 cup chopped cucumbers
• 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)

Chicken Ingredients

• 1/2 lb boneless chicken tenders
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 egg, beaten
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1/4 tsp paprika
• Oil for frying (about 1/4 cup or enough to shallow fry)

Dressings

• 2 tbsp buffalo sauce
• 2 tbsp ranch dressing

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Instructions

1. Season the chicken: Pat the chicken tenders dry and season evenly with salt, black pepper, and paprika to infuse them with flavor.
2. Coat the chicken: Dredge each chicken tender first in the all-purpose flour, shaking off excess. Next, dip them into the beaten egg to help the breadcrumbs stick. Finally, coat thoroughly with breadcrumbs for a crispy texture.
3. Fry the chicken: Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat until shimmering. Fry the coated chicken tenders for 4 to 5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy. Once cooked, transfer them to paper towels to drain excess oil, then slice into strips.
4. Prepare the salad base: In a large bowl, combine chopped romaine lettuce, halved cherry tomatoes, shredded carrots, chopped cucumbers, and shredded cheddar cheese if using. Toss gently to mix.
5. Assemble the salad: Arrange the crispy chicken strips on top of the salad mixture evenly.
6. Add dressing: Drizzle buffalo sauce and ranch dressing over the entire salad to add spice and creaminess.
7. Serve immediately: Serve the salad while the chicken is still warm and crunchy for the best texture and flavor experience.

Notes

• For extra crispiness, use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs.
• You can adjust the buffalo sauce quantity to control the spiciness.
• To make it lighter, you can bake the chicken tenders instead of frying at 400°F for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway.
• Use ranch dressing with low-fat or Greek yogurt base for a healthier option.
• This salad is best enjoyed fresh to keep the chicken crispy.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Salad
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: Buffalo Chicken Salad, Crispy Chicken Salad, Fried Chicken Salad, Buffalo Ranch Dressing, Quick Chicken Salad