Dinner

Buffalo Ranch Crispy Chicken Salad Recipe

Name: Buffalo Ranch Crispy Chicken Salad Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
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

ByNaomi Fletcher November 28, 2025November 28, 2025

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Introduction

This Buffalo Ranch Crispy Chicken Salad is a perfect blend of spicy, tangy, and crunchy flavors. Ready in just 25 minutes, it combines crispy fried chicken strips with fresh vegetables and zesty dressings for a satisfying meal.

A white round plate holds a fresh salad with a base layer of mixed green leafy lettuce, light green cucumber slices, and halved red cherry tomatoes around the edges. On top, there is a generous layer of crispy golden-brown fried chicken pieces arranged in the center. The chicken is drizzled with a creamy pinkish-orange dressing that flows lightly over the pieces and some of the salad greens. Small chopped green herbs are sprinkled over the dish for color contrast. The plate is set on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

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

Step 1: Season chicken tenders with salt, black pepper, and paprika.
Step 2: Dredge each tender in flour, dip into beaten egg, then coat with breadcrumbs.
Step 3: Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry chicken for 4–5 minutes per side, or until golden and crispy. Drain on paper towels and slice into strips.
Step 4: In a large bowl, layer chopped romaine, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, carrots, and shredded cheese.
Step 5: Top with crispy chicken strips.
Step 6: Drizzle buffalo sauce and ranch dressing over the salad.
Step 7: Serve immediately while warm and crunchy.

Tips & Variations

Use panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch in the chicken coating.
Swap buffalo sauce for BBQ sauce for a milder flavor.
Add avocado slices or blue cheese crumbles to enhance richness.
For a lighter version, bake the chicken tenders instead of frying.

Storage

Store any leftover salad components separately in airtight containers for up to 2 days. Keep the fried chicken strips in the refrigerator and reheat in an oven or air fryer to maintain crispiness. Avoid dressing the salad until ready to serve to keep it fresh.

How to Serve

A white plate holds a fresh salad with a base layer of mixed green and purple lettuce leaves. On top, there are crispy golden-brown fried chicken pieces scattered evenly. Drizzled over the chicken and greens is a creamy pinkish-orange sauce, garnished with finely chopped green herbs. Around the edges, small cherry tomato halves add bright red color. The plate sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken tenders for this recipe?

Yes, but be sure to fully thaw and pat them dry before seasoning and breading to ensure even cooking and crispiness.

What can I substitute for buffalo sauce?

If you prefer less heat or can’t find buffalo sauce, try using BBQ sauce, hot sauce mixed with a bit of melted butter, or a mild wing sauce.