Welcome to our delicious recipe collection! Today, we’re excited to share a must-try Buffalo Chopped Chicken Salad recipe with you. This salad is the perfect combination of spicy, crispy chicken nuggets, fresh vegetables, and creamy avocado, all tied together with a rich buffalo sauce. If you’re a fan of vibrant flavors, crunchy textures, and a hint of heat, you’re going to love this Buffalo Chopped Chicken Salad. Keep reading to discover how to bring this delightful dish to your table!
Introduction
If you’re looking for a healthy yet flavor-packed meal, our Buffalo Chopped Chicken Salad recipe is here to impress. With its roots in classic American cuisine, this salad combines the tangy, spicy kick of buffalo chicken with the refreshing crispness of fresh vegetables. Traditionally, buffalo chicken is a beloved comfort food, known for its bold flavors and spicy notes. We’ve lightened it up by adding a medley of colorful veggies, making it perfect for weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or meal prepping. Ready in just under 30 minutes, it’s an excellent choice for anyone who craves a dish that is both satisfying and nourishing.
For more delightful variations, check out these other buffalo-inspired dishes on our ultimate cowboy casserole cornbread recipe and sausage balls with red lobster mix. You’re bound to find new favorites!
Ingredients for Buffalo Chopped Chicken Salad
Here’s everything you’ll need to whip up this Buffalo Chicken Salad:
- 3 chicken breasts, small & cut into nuggets
- 1 cup rice crumbs (or substitute with panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch)
- 2 eggs, whisked
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp sea salt
- 1/2 tsp pepper
- 1/2 cup buffalo sauce
- 2 1/2 cups green leaf or romaine lettuce, chopped
- 1/2 cup cucumber, chopped
- 1/2 cup tomatoes, chopped
- 1/2 avocado, sliced
- 1/2 cup carrots, shredded
- 2-3 tbsp crumbled gorgonzola cheese (optional)
- Cilantro (optional, for garnish)
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for garnish)
Optional Substitutions:
- Use almond flour instead of breadcrumbs for a low-carb option.
- Replace gorgonzola cheese with feta or omit for a dairy-free version.
How to Make Buffalo Chopped Chicken Salad – Step by Step
Follow these simple steps to create your own Buffalo Chicken Chopped Salad:
Step1: Prep the Chicken
- Chop the chicken breasts into nugget-sized pieces.
- Pat the pieces dry with a paper towel to ensure better coating adherence.
Step2: Prepare the Breading Stations
- Create two separate bowls:
- Bowl 1: Whisk two eggs until smooth.
- Bowl 2: Combine rice crumbs, garlic powder, sea salt, and pepper.
Step3: Coat the Chicken
- Dip each nugget piece into the egg mixture, allowing excess to drip off.
- Immediately coat each piece in the rice crumb mixture, pressing lightly to ensure even coverage.
Step4: Cook the Chicken
- Place the nuggets in an air fryer set to 350°F for 10-12 minutes. Flip halfway through to ensure even cooking.
- Once the nuggets are crispy and golden, transfer them into a bowl and toss with buffalo sauce.
Step5: Final Crisp
- Return the coated nuggets to the air fryer and cook at 370°F for an additional 2 minutes to lock in the sauce.
Step6: Assemble the Salad
- In a large bowl, combine chopped lettuce, cucumber, and tomatoes.
- Layer shredded carrots, sliced avocado, buffalo chicken nuggets, and gorgonzola cheese on top.
- Garnish with cilantro and red pepper flakes, if desired.
Enjoy this zesty, flavor-packed Buffalo Chopped Chicken Salad!
Helpful Tips for Buffalo Chicken Salad
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables like crisp lettuce and firm cucumbers add a delightful crunch that complements the spicy chicken.
- Customize the Heat Level: If you prefer a milder salad, use a honey-buffalo sauce or dilute regular buffalo sauce with a bit of melted butter.
- Double the Recipe: This salad makes great leftovers for lunch the next day. Just keep the dressing separate until serving.
Cooking Tips for the Best Buffalo Chicken Salad
- Air Fryer is Key: Using an air fryer gives the nuggets a crispy exterior without excessive oil, making this a healthier choice.
- Even Nugget Size: Ensure all chicken pieces are similar in size for consistent cooking.
- Toss the Chicken Right Away: Tossing the nuggets with buffalo sauce immediately after cooking helps the sauce stick better.
Serving Suggestions for Buffalo Chopped Chicken Salad
Pair your Buffalo Chopped Chicken Salad with:
- A side of garlic bread or crusty baguette.
- For a refreshing drink, try an iced lemonade or sparkling water with lime.
- Turn it into a wrap by filling a whole wheat tortilla with the salad ingredients!
Nutritional Information
Buffalo Chopped Chicken Salad is a nutritious meal that offers a balance of protein, healthy fats, and fiber. Here’s a snapshot of its nutritional profile:
Nutritional Info (per serving):
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Total Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Dietary Fiber: 6g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 34g
- Vitamin A: 120%
- Vitamin C: 50%
- Calcium: 12%
- Iron: 15%
Storage and Leftovers for Buffalo Chicken Salad
- To Store: Place the salad ingredients in separate airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
- To Reheat: For the chicken, use an air fryer or oven at 375°F for 3-4 minutes to restore crispiness.
- To Serve: Combine salad components just before eating to maintain freshness.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Buffalo Chopped Chicken Salad
Q1: Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes! Prep the chicken and chop the veggies in advance. Store separately and assemble when ready to serve.
Q2: What’s the best buffalo sauce to use?
Use your favorite store-bought buffalo sauce or make a homemade version with hot sauce, butter, and a touch of garlic.
Q3: How do I make this salad keto-friendly?
Substitute the rice crumbs with crushed pork rinds and skip the carrots.
Q4: Can I bake the chicken instead of using an air fryer?
Absolutely! Bake the nuggets at 400°F for 15 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Related Recipes for Buffalo Chicken Salad Lovers
Looking for more delicious recipes? Check out these options:
- Ultimate Cowboy Casserole Cornbread – A Hearty Meal
- Sausage Balls Recipe with Red Lobster Mix – Easy & Tasty
Both recipes are packed with flavor and are perfect for anyone who loves savory dishes!
Conclusion
We hope you enjoy making this Buffalo Chopped Chicken Salad recipe as much as we loved creating it! With its bold flavors and vibrant colors, it’s bound to become a favorite in your household. Try it out, and don’t forget to let us know how it turned out in the comments below. Happy cooking!
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Buffalo Chicken Salad Recipe – Easy, Spicy & Flavorful Dish
Description
Welcome to our delicious recipe collection! Today, we’re excited to share a must-try Buffalo Chopped Chicken Salad recipe with you. This salad is the perfect combination of spicy, crispy chicken nuggets, fresh vegetables, and creamy avocado, all tied together with a rich buffalo sauce. If you’re a fan of vibrant flavors, crunchy textures, and a hint of heat, you’re going to love this Buffalo Chopped Chicken Salad. Keep reading to discover how to bring this delightful dish to your table!
Ingredients
- 3 chicken breasts, small & cut into nuggets
- 1 cup rice crumbs (or substitute with panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch)
- 2 eggs, whisked
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp sea salt
- 1/2 tsp pepper
- 1/2 cup buffalo sauce
- 2 1/2 cups green leaf or romaine lettuce, chopped
- 1/2 cup cucumber, chopped
- 1/2 cup tomatoes, chopped
- 1/2 avocado, sliced
- 1/2 cup carrots, shredded
- 2–3 tbsp crumbled gorgonzola cheese (optional)
- Cilantro (optional, for garnish)
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for garnish)
Optional Substitutions:
- Use almond flour instead of breadcrumbs for a low-carb option.
- Replace gorgonzola cheese with feta or omit for a dairy-free version.
Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Chicken
- Chop the chicken breasts into nugget-sized pieces.
- Pat the pieces dry with a paper towel to ensure better coating adherence.
Step 2: Prepare the Breading Stations
- Create two separate bowls:
- Bowl 1: Whisk two eggs until smooth.
- Bowl 2: Combine rice crumbs, garlic powder, sea salt, and pepper.
Step 3: Coat the Chicken
- Dip each nugget piece into the egg mixture, allowing excess to drip off.
- Immediately coat each piece in the rice crumb mixture, pressing lightly to ensure even coverage.
Step 4: Cook the Chicken
- Place the nuggets in an air fryer set to 350°F for 10-12 minutes. Flip halfway through to ensure even cooking.
- Once the nuggets are crispy and golden, transfer them into a bowl and toss with buffalo sauce.
Step 5: Final Crisp
- Return the coated nuggets to the air fryer and cook at 370°F for an additional 2 minutes to lock in the sauce.
Step 6: Assemble the Salad
- In a large bowl, combine chopped lettuce, cucumber, and tomatoes.
- Layer shredded carrots, sliced avocado, buffalo chicken nuggets, and gorgonzola cheese on top.
- Garnish with cilantro and red pepper flakes, if desired.
Enjoy this zesty, flavor-packed Buffalo Chopped Chicken Salad!
Equipment
2Pcs Heart Shape Cake Pans, Aluminum Heart Cake Mold, Reusable 10 inch
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Kids Chill Leak-Proof Lunch Box – Included Reusable Ice Pack Keeps Food Cold
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- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables like crisp lettuce and firm cucumbers add a delightful crunch that complements the spicy chicken.
- Customize the Heat Level: If you prefer a milder salad, use a honey-buffalo sauce or dilute regular buffalo sauce with a bit of melted butter.
- Double the Recipe: This salad makes great leftovers for lunch the next day. Just keep the dressing separate until serving.
