Hello and welcome to another flavorful adventure! If you’re a fan of vibrant, hearty salads bursting with fresh ingredients and spicy buffalo sauce, then you’re in for a treat. This Clean Buffalo Chicken Salad is more than just your average salad—it’s a dynamic fusion of bold flavors and healthy goodness that will leave you craving for more. Ready to dive in? Let’s get cooking!
Introduction
Buffalo chicken is traditionally associated with indulgent appetizers and game-day snacks, but this recipe reinvents it as a nourishing salad that’s both satisfying and nutritious. The Clean Buffalo Chicken Salad combines tender shredded chicken, spicy buffalo sauce, and a medley of colorful veggies, making it a must-try for fans of spicy cuisine and those seeking healthy meal options. The inclusion of fresh ingredients like romaine lettuce, cherry tomatoes, and bell peppers enhances the dish’s appeal, while the creamy cheese and zesty lime juice add a delightful contrast of flavors.
This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a flavorful lunch that’s easy to prep ahead of time. Whether you’re a buffalo chicken enthusiast or a salad lover, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen repertoire.
Looking for more inspiring salad ideas? Check out our Ultimate Cowboy Casserole Cornbread recipe for another hearty option!
Ingredients for Clean Buffalo Chicken Salad
Main Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken breast: Use freshly cooked or store-bought rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- 4 tablespoons all-natural buffalo-style sauce: Choose a sauce that only contains water, vinegar, and spices. Tip: I prefer Tabasco Buffalo Sauce for its simple ingredients and bold flavor.
- 1.5 tablespoons melted ghee or clarified butter: Adds richness and enhances the buffalo flavor.
- 5-6 cups packed chopped romaine lettuce: Crisp and refreshing, perfect as the base for this salad.
- 1 yellow bell pepper, diced: Adds a sweet crunch and vibrant color.
- 1 jalapeño, sliced: For a spicy kick. Remove seeds if you prefer milder heat.
- 1 cup halved cherry tomatoes: Juicy and sweet, balancing the spiciness of the buffalo sauce.
- 1 cup cooked black beans, drained and rinsed: Adds protein and fiber for a heartier meal.
- 1/4 cup shredded Mexican cheese blend: Optional for a creamy texture.
- A handful of fresh cilantro, chopped: To garnish and add a fresh herbaceous note.
Dressing:
- Juice of 2 fresh limes: For zesty freshness.
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil: Balances the acidity of the lime juice.
- Sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper: To taste.
Pro Tip: For a lighter version, skip the cheese or replace it with a dairy-free alternative.
How to Make Clean Buffalo Chicken Salad – Step by Step
Step1: Prepare the Buffalo Chicken
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine your shredded chicken, melted ghee, and buffalo sauce.
- Stir thoroughly until the chicken is evenly coated with the spicy sauce. Tip: Warming the chicken slightly helps it absorb the flavors better.
Step2: Assemble the Salad Base
- In a large salad bowl, add the chopped romaine lettuce as your base.
- Evenly distribute the cherry tomatoes, diced bell pepper, and sliced jalapeño over the lettuce.
Step3: Add the Buffalo Chicken
- Spoon the prepared buffalo chicken over the salad.
- Add the cooked black beans and sprinkle with the Mexican cheese blend.
Step4: Dress the Salad
- Drizzle the salad with the olive oil and lime juice mixture.
- Season with sea salt and freshly cracked pepper to taste.
Step5: Toss and Serve
- Gently toss the salad to combine all the ingredients.
- Garnish with a handful of fresh cilantro and serve immediately.
For a complete meal, serve alongside Sausage Balls Recipe with Red Lobster Mix.
Helpful Tips for Clean Buffalo Chicken Salad
- Choosing the Chicken: Opt for freshly cooked or rotisserie chicken to save time. Shred the meat while it’s still warm for a better texture.
- Control the Spice Level: Adjust the amount of buffalo sauce and jalapeño to your preferred spice tolerance.
- Customizations: Add sliced avocado, crumbled blue cheese, or swap the black beans for chickpeas for added variety.
Cooking Tips for the Best Clean Buffalo Chicken Salad
- Use Fresh Ingredients: The salad’s flavor relies heavily on the freshness of the produce. Crisp lettuce and juicy tomatoes elevate the overall taste.
- Don’t Overdrench the Salad: Drizzle the dressing lightly to prevent the salad from becoming soggy.
- Serve Immediately: For the best texture and flavor, toss and serve the salad just before eating.
Serving Suggestions for Clean Buffalo Chicken Salad
This salad pairs beautifully with a light, crisp white wine or a chilled iced tea. Serve it with a side of crusty bread for a more filling meal or enjoy it on its own for a low-carb option. For extra crunch, consider topping it with a handful of homemade tortilla strips or roasted pepitas.
Nutritional Information
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 26g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fats: 18g
- Fiber: 5g
- Vitamin A: 110% of Daily Value (DV)
- Vitamin C: 120% of DV
- Calcium: 10% of DV
- Iron: 15% of DV
Storage and Leftovers for Clean Buffalo Chicken Salad
How to Store:
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Separate Dressing: Keep the lime juice and olive oil dressing separate to maintain the salad’s crispness.
How to Reheat:
- If using pre-cooked buffalo chicken, reheat the chicken separately in the microwave before adding it to the salad.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Clean Buffalo Chicken Salad
1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the components separately and assemble just before serving to maintain freshness.
2. What’s the best buffalo sauce for this recipe?
Choose a buffalo sauce with minimal ingredients—just water, vinegar, and spices. Avoid additives for a clean version.
3. Can I use a different type of lettuce?
Absolutely! Romaine is preferred for its crunch, but iceberg or mixed greens work well too.
4. Is this salad gluten-free?
Yes, as long as your buffalo sauce and cheese are gluten-free. Always check labels to be sure.
Related Recipes for Clean Buffalo Chicken Salad Lovers
- Chicken Jerusalem Recipe: A Culinary Masterpiece
– If you love chicken salads, this Mediterranean-inspired dish will be your next favorite.
- Golden Girl Salad with Sweet Corn Vinaigrette
– A vibrant, healthy salad with sweet and tangy flavors.
Conclusion
This Clean Buffalo Chicken Salad is not just a salad—it’s a celebration of flavors and textures that’s healthy and satisfying. Whether you’re looking to spice up your weekly meal prep or impress guests with a colorful, hearty dish, this recipe has you covered. Give it a try and let me know how it turned out in the comments below. Feel free to share your own variations or unique twists!
Happy cooking!
Print
Clean Buffalo Chicken Salad Recipe – Healthy & Flavorful Dish
Description
Hello and welcome to another flavorful adventure! If you’re a fan of vibrant, hearty salads bursting with fresh ingredients and spicy buffalo sauce, then you’re in for a treat. This Clean Buffalo Chicken Salad is more than just your average salad—it’s a dynamic fusion of bold flavors and healthy goodness that will leave you craving for more. Ready to dive in? Let’s get cooking!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken breast: Use freshly cooked or store-bought rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- 4 tablespoons all-natural buffalo-style sauce: Choose a sauce that only contains water, vinegar, and spices. Tip: I prefer Tabasco Buffalo Sauce for its simple ingredients and bold flavor.
- 1.5 tablespoons melted ghee or clarified butter: Adds richness and enhances the buffalo flavor.
- 5–6 cups packed chopped romaine lettuce: Crisp and refreshing, perfect as the base for this salad.
- 1 yellow bell pepper, diced: Adds a sweet crunch and vibrant color.
- 1 jalapeño, sliced: For a spicy kick. Remove seeds if you prefer milder heat.
- 1 cup halved cherry tomatoes: Juicy and sweet, balancing the spiciness of the buffalo sauce.
- 1 cup cooked black beans, drained and rinsed: Adds protein and fiber for a heartier meal.
- 1/4 cup shredded Mexican cheese blend: Optional for a creamy texture.
- A handful of fresh cilantro, chopped: To garnish and add a fresh herbaceous note.
Dressing:
- Juice of 2 fresh limes: For zesty freshness.
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil: Balances the acidity of the lime juice.
- Sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper: To taste.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Buffalo Chicken
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine your shredded chicken, melted ghee, and buffalo sauce.
- Stir thoroughly until the chicken is evenly coated with the spicy sauce. Tip: Warming the chicken slightly helps it absorb the flavors better.
Step 2: Assemble the Salad Base
- In a large salad bowl, add the chopped romaine lettuce as your base.
- Evenly distribute the cherry tomatoes, diced bell pepper, and sliced jalapeño over the lettuce.
Step 3: Add the Buffalo Chicken
- Spoon the prepared buffalo chicken over the salad.
- Add the cooked black beans and sprinkle with the Mexican cheese blend.
Step 4: Dress the Salad
- Drizzle the salad with the olive oil and lime juice mixture.
- Season with sea salt and freshly cracked pepper to taste.
Step 5: Toss and Serve
- Gently toss the salad to combine all the ingredients.
- Garnish with a handful of fresh cilantro and serve immediately.
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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- Choosing the Chicken: Opt for freshly cooked or rotisserie chicken to save time. Shred the meat while it’s still warm for a better texture.
- Control the Spice Level: Adjust the amount of buffalo sauce and jalapeño to your preferred spice tolerance.
- Customizations: Add sliced avocado, crumbled blue cheese, or swap the black beans for chickpeas for added variety
