Crispy Buffalo Chicken Salad with Cilantro Ranch

This Crispy Buffalo Chicken Salad with Cilantro Ranch is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re planning a family dinner or prepping for a meal prep week. The salad is packed with flavor, featuring crispy pan-fried chicken tenders coated in a zesty buffalo sauce that pairs beautifully with fresh greens and creamy avocado. The Whole30 compliant cilantro ranch dressing adds a refreshing twist, making this dish both satisfying and nutritious.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Addictive Flavor: The combination of spicy buffalo chicken and creamy ranch will keep you coming back for more.
• Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this delicious salad in no time.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Ideal for making ahead of time for lunches or quick dinners during the week.
• Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to customize with your favorite veggies or add-ins to suit your taste.
• Diet-Friendly: This recipe is perfect for those following Paleo, Whole30, or Keto diets.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather these essential tools to make your cooking process smooth and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Whisk
• Mixing bowls
• Cutting board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: A non-stick skillet ensures the chicken cooks evenly without sticking, which is crucial for achieving that crispy texture.
• Whisk: This tool helps you blend dressing ingredients smoothly without lumps, ensuring a creamy ranch finish.

Ingredients

For the Salad Base

• 3 cups chopped romaine (or salad greens)
• 3 celery stalks (chopped)
• 1/2 cup shredded cabbage
• 1 cup shredded carrots
• 1 large avocado (sliced)
• Thinly sliced red onion (optional)

For the Chicken Tenders

• 1 lb chicken tenderloins
• 1 large egg (whisked)
• 3/4 cup blanched almond flour
• 1/4 cup tapioca flour (or arrowroot)
• 1 and 1/4 tsp fine grain sea salt
• 1/8 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/4 cup coconut oil or avocado oil (for frying)

For the Buffalo Sauce

• 1/3 cup Frank’s original hot sauce
• 1/4 cup ghee (melted)

For the Cilantro Ranch Dressing

• 1/2 cup homemade mayo or purchased paleo mayo
• 3 Tbsp coconut milk
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 2 Tbsp cilantro (minced)
• 1 tsp dried chives
• 1/4 tsp dried dill
• 1 tsp fresh lime juice
• 1/8-1/4 tsp salt (or to taste)

For Garnish

• Additional cilantro (for garnish)

How to Make Crispy Buffalo Chicken Salad with Cilantro Ranch {Paleo, Whole30, Keto}

Step 1: Make the Cilantro Ranch Dressing

Whisk all the dressing ingredients together in a bowl until nice and smooth. Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.

Step 2: Prepare the Salad Base

In a large serving bowl, arrange the salad ingredients except for the avocado. Slice the avocado right before serving to avoid browning. Cover and refrigerate while preparing the chicken.

Step 3: Bread the Chicken Tenders

Whisk the egg in a small shallow bowl. In another shallow bowl, combine almond flour, tapioca flour, salt, pepper, onion powder, and garlic powder.

Step 4: Heat Your Skillet

Heat a large skillet over medium to medium-high heat. Add coconut oil or avocado oil for frying once it’s sizzling hot.

Step 5: Fry the Chicken

Dip each piece of chicken into the egg mixture, shaking off excess. Coat with dry mixture and place in the skillet. Repeat until all chicken pieces are breaded.

Step 6: Cook Until Golden

Cook on one side until golden brown (about 3 minutes). Carefully turn using tongs to avoid losing breading. Cook on second side until golden brown and cooked through—about 6 minutes total depending on thickness.

Step 7: Prepare Buffalo Sauce

Remove chicken to a paper towel-lined plate to cool slightly. In a bowl, whisk together hot sauce and melted ghee. Dip each piece of chicken in sauce to coat.

Step 8: Assemble Your Salad

Cut chicken into pieces if desired. Arrange on top of salad along with avocado slices. Drizzle any leftover buffalo sauce over everything before serving with cilantro ranch dressing. Enjoy!

How to Serve Crispy Buffalo Chicken Salad with Cilantro Ranch {Paleo, Whole30, Keto}

Serving Crispy Buffalo Chicken Salad with Cilantro Ranch is a delightful experience that combines fresh ingredients and bold flavors. This salad can be tailored to suit various occasions or preferences.

For a Family Dinner

• Serve it in a large bowl for everyone to help themselves.
• Pair with some crusty paleo bread for those who want an extra crunch.

As Meal Prep

• Divide the salad into individual containers for lunch throughout the week.
• Keep the dressing separate until ready to eat to maintain freshness.

For a Potluck

• Present the salad in an attractive serving dish.
• Bring extra dressing on the side for guests who may prefer more sauce.

With Extra Toppings

• Add crispy bacon bits for added flavor and texture.
• Top with sliced jalapeños for a spicy kick.

How to Perfect Crispy Buffalo Chicken Salad with Cilantro Ranch {Paleo, Whole30, Keto}

Perfecting this salad means ensuring every bite is packed with flavor and texture. Follow these tips for the best results.

• Use high-quality chicken: Opt for organic or free-range chicken tenderloins for better taste and health benefits.
• Heat the oil properly: Ensure your frying oil is hot enough to prevent the coating from falling off during cooking.
• Add fresh herbs: Enhance flavor by mixing in fresh herbs like parsley or chives into your salad.
• Customize your veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables such as bell peppers or cucumbers for additional crunch and nutrition.
• Make it spicy: Increase the heat by using hotter hot sauce or adding crushed red pepper flakes to the chicken coating.
• Store correctly: To keep leftovers fresh, store components separately—salad greens should be kept in a sealed container away from dressings and proteins.

Best Side Dishes for Crispy Buffalo Chicken Salad with Cilantro Ranch {Paleo, Whole30, Keto}

Pairing side dishes with your Crispy Buffalo Chicken Salad can enhance your meal’s overall experience. Here are some fantastic options.

1. Sweet Potato Fries: These are a healthier alternative to regular fries, adding sweetness and crunch.
2. Zucchini Noodles: Light and refreshing, they complement the robust flavors of the salad well.
3. Grilled Asparagus: The smoky flavor of grilled asparagus pairs beautifully with buffalo chicken.
4. Cauliflower Rice: A low-carb option that absorbs flavors well; consider seasoning it lightly before serving.
5. Crispy Brussels Sprouts: Roasting Brussels sprouts adds a nutty flavor that goes great alongside your salad’s spices.
6. Guacamole: Creamy and rich, guacamole provides healthy fats and balances out the spiciness of the buffalo sauce.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a Crispy Buffalo Chicken Salad with Cilantro Ranch can be simple, but some common mistakes can hinder your results. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Skipping the seasoning: Always season the chicken and the breading well. This enhances the flavor of your crispy chicken tenders and salad.
• Not preheating the oil: Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying. If it’s not sizzling, the breading may fall off, resulting in soggy chicken.
• Cutting chicken too early: Allow the chicken to rest after frying before cutting it. This helps retain moisture and keeps your salad from getting soggy.
• Using non-compliant ingredients: Be cautious with sauces and dressings. Ensure they are Whole30 and Paleo compliant for best results.
• Avoiding fresh herbs: Fresh cilantro adds a burst of flavor to the ranch dressing. Don’t skip it; it elevates your dish significantly.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Crispy Buffalo Chicken Salad with Cilantro Ranch {Paleo, Whole30, Keto}

• It is best to freeze only the cooked chicken separately.
• Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
• Avoid freezing the salad ingredients as they will wilt upon thawing.

Reheating Crispy Buffalo Chicken Salad with Cilantro Ranch {Paleo, Whole30, Keto}

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place chicken on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish and cover loosely. Heat in short intervals (30 seconds) until warm, taking care not to overcook.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add a little oil if needed and sauté chicken pieces until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this Crispy Buffalo Chicken Salad ahead of time?

Yes! You can prep all ingredients ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator. Just assemble before serving.

What can I substitute for ghee in this recipe?

You can replace ghee with coconut oil or avocado oil for a similar effect while maintaining compliance with Paleo and Whole30 diets.

How can I customize my Crispy Buffalo Chicken Salad?

Feel free to add extra vegetables like bell peppers or cucumbers. You can also swap out proteins or try different dressings based on your preference.

Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! The salad is great for meal prep. Just keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat.

What is the nutritional information for this salad?

Each serving contains approximately 417 calories, 12 g carbs, 16 g protein, and 35 g fat, making it perfect for those following Keto or Paleo diets.

Final Thoughts

The Crispy Buffalo Chicken Salad with Cilantro Ranch offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures that make it incredibly satisfying. Not only is it versatile—allowing for various ingredient swaps—but it’s also easy to prepare ahead of time. Give this recipe a try and customize it to suit your taste!