Crispy Buffalo Chicken Salad with Cilantro Ranch

This Crispy Buffalo Chicken Salad with Cilantro Ranch {Paleo, Whole30, Keto} is a delightful combination of flavors and textures. It’s perfect for lunch or dinner, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or meal prep. The crispy chicken tenders coated in spicy buffalo sauce combine beautifully with fresh greens and a creamy cilantro ranch dressing. This salad is not only delicious but also aligns well with Paleo, Whole30, and Keto dietary preferences.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavor-packed: The combination of crispy chicken and zesty buffalo sauce makes every bite irresistible.
• Quick to prepare: With a total time of just 25 minutes, you can have a satisfying meal ready in no time.
• Meal prep friendly: Easily prep the ingredients ahead of time for quick assembly during the week.
• Versatile: Customize your salad with additional toppings like nuts or seeds for extra crunch.
• Diet-friendly: This recipe fits within Paleo, Whole30, and Keto guidelines without sacrificing taste.

Tools and Preparation

For this recipe, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools to make the process smooth and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Non-stick skillet
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Non-stick skillet: Ensures even cooking and prevents the chicken from sticking.
• Mixing bowls: Help keep ingredients organized while prepping the dressing and breading.
• Whisk: Perfect for achieving a smooth consistency in your ranch dressing.

Ingredients

For the Salad

• 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)
• 1 lb chicken tenderloins

For the Breading

• 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

For Frying

• 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

Step 1: Prepare the Dressing

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

Step 2: Assemble the Salad Base

In a large serving bowl, arrange the salad ingredients except for the avocado. Slice the avocado just before serving to prevent browning. Cover and refrigerate while you prepare the chicken.

Step 3: Bread the Chicken Tenders

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

Step 4: Heat Up Your Skillet

Heat a large non-stick skillet over medium to medium-high heat. Add the oil for frying once hot.

Step 5: Cook the Chicken Tenders

Once sizzling hot:
– Dip each piece of chicken in the egg, shaking off excess.
– Coat with dry mixture.
– Place in skillet; repeat for all pieces.
Cook on one side until golden brown (about 3 minutes). Carefully turn using tongs to prevent losing breading. Cook until golden brown on both sides and cooked through inside – about 6 minutes total depending on thickness.

Step 6: Prepare Buffalo Sauce Coating

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 this sauce to coat.

Step 7: Assemble Your Salad

Cut chicken into pieces if desired. Arrange over your salad base. Drizzle any leftover buffalo sauce over top. Arrange avocado slices around chicken.

Step 8: Serve with Dressing

Serve immediately with cilantro ranch dressing on the side or drizzle on top. Enjoy!

How to Serve Crispy Buffalo Chicken Salad with Cilantro Ranch

Crispy Buffalo Chicken Salad with Cilantro Ranch is a delicious and versatile meal that can be served in various ways. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

On a Bed of Greens

• Use mixed greens or spinach as a base for added nutrients and flavor. This keeps the salad fresh and light.

With Extra Toppings

• Add extra toppings like sliced jalapeños or crumbled bacon for a spicy kick or smoky flavor that complements the buffalo chicken.

As Wraps

• Use large lettuce leaves to create wraps filled with the salad mixture. This makes for a fun, low-carb option that’s easy to eat on the go.

With Grilled Corn

• Serve alongside grilled corn on the cob for a sweet contrast. The flavors combine beautifully and make for a hearty meal.

Paired with Soup

• A cup of creamy cauliflower soup or tomato basil soup can complement the salad perfectly, adding warmth and richness to your meal.

How to Perfect Crispy Buffalo Chicken Salad with Cilantro Ranch

To achieve the best results with your Crispy Buffalo Chicken Salad, consider these helpful tips for perfecting each element of this dish.

• Choose Quality Chicken: Using fresh chicken tenderloins ensures tenderness and juiciness in every bite.
• Preheat Oil Properly: Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying. This helps achieve that crispy texture without sogginess.
• Don’t Skip the Dressing: The cilantro ranch dressing ties all the flavors together; don’t skip it for an authentic taste.
• Slice Avocado Just Before Serving: To keep your avocado fresh and vibrant, slice it right before serving to avoid browning.
• Adjust Spice Level: Customize your buffalo sauce by adding more or less hot sauce according to your taste preference.
• Let Chicken Rest After Frying: Allowing the chicken to cool slightly before adding it to the salad prevents wilting of greens.

Best Side Dishes for Crispy Buffalo Chicken Salad with Cilantro Ranch

Adding sides can elevate your meal experience. Here are some wonderful side dish options that pair well with Crispy Buffalo Chicken Salad.

1. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: These offer a sweet contrast and are easy to prepare by simply seasoning and roasting until tender.
2. Steamed Broccoli: A nutritious side that adds crunch and color; steam until bright green for best results.
3. Cauliflower Rice: A low-carb alternative that can be flavored with herbs or spices to match your salad’s zest.
4. Zucchini Noodles: Light and refreshing, zucchini noodles provide great texture; serve them raw or lightly sautéed.
5. Stuffed Bell Peppers: Fill bell peppers with quinoa or cauliflower rice for a filling side that complements the main dish nicely.
6. Mixed Berry Salad: A refreshing fruit salad provides a sweet finish while balancing savory flavors from the main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common pitfalls will help you create the best Crispy Buffalo Chicken Salad with Cilantro Ranch. Here are some mistakes to watch for:

• Ignoring ingredient quality: Using low-quality oils or hot sauces can alter the flavor. Always opt for fresh, whole ingredients for the best taste.
• Overcrowding the pan: Placing too many chicken pieces in the skillet at once can lead to uneven cooking. Fry in batches to ensure each piece is crispy and golden.
• Skipping the resting time: Not allowing the chicken to cool slightly after frying can cause it to become soggy. Letting it rest helps maintain its crispiness.
• Cutting chicken too early: Slicing the chicken before serving can lead to moisture loss. Cut it just before adding to your salad for maximum juiciness.
• Using stale greens: Adding wilted or old salad greens can ruin the dish’s freshness. Always use crisp, vibrant greens for the best texture and flavor.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover salad in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3 days for optimal freshness.

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

• This salad is not ideal for freezing due to its fresh ingredients.
• You may freeze cooked chicken separately if desired.

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, being cautious not to overcook.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a little oil. Warm chicken for about 5 minutes until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

You can prepare all components in advance but assemble right before serving for maximum freshness.

What are alternatives for ghee in this recipe?

You can substitute ghee with coconut oil or unsalted butter if you’re not following strict Paleo guidelines.

How can I customize my Crispy Buffalo Chicken Salad?

Feel free to add more veggies like bell peppers or swap out chicken tenders for grilled shrimp or tofu based on dietary preferences.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! The salad ingredients store well separately, making it perfect for meal prep throughout the week.

What if I want a spicier buffalo sauce?

You can increase the amount of hot sauce used or add cayenne pepper to elevate the heat level to your liking.

Final Thoughts

This Crispy Buffalo Chicken Salad with Cilantro Ranch is not only delicious but also versatile. Perfect as a quick lunch or a satisfying dinner, you can easily customize it with your favorite veggies or proteins. Give it a try and enjoy a healthy, flavorful meal that’s sure to impress!

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

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• Author: Lucille
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Crispy Buffalo Chicken Salad with Cilantro Ranch is a tantalizing blend of spicy, creamy, and crunchy flavors that will satisfy your cravings without derailing your health goals. This dish features golden, crispy chicken tenders slathered in zesty buffalo sauce layered over a fresh bed of romaine and crunchy veggies. Topped off with a homemade cilantro ranch dressing, this salad is perfect for lunch or dinner, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights or meal prep. Whether you’re following Paleo, Whole30, or Keto diets, this recipe ensures you enjoy every bite while sticking to your nutritional plans.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb chicken tenderloins
• 3 cups chopped romaine
• 3 celery stalks
• 1 large avocado
• 3/4 cup blanched almond flour
• 1/3 cup Frank’s hot sauce
• 1/2 cup mayo (Paleo-friendly)
• Fresh cilantro and spices

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Instructions

1. Prepare the cilantro ranch dressing by whisking all ingredients together in a bowl. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
2. Assemble the salad base with romaine, celery, and other veggies in a large bowl.
3. Bread the chicken by dipping it in beaten egg and coating it with almond and tapioca flour mixed with spices.
4. Heat oil in a non-stick skillet and fry chicken tenders until golden brown on both sides.
5. Coat the cooked chicken with buffalo sauce before slicing it into pieces.
6. Serve the sliced chicken over the salad base and drizzle with cilantro ranch dressing.

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

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 salad (approximately 300g)
• Calories: 520
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 820mg
• Fat: 36g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 25g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 16g
• Fiber: 8g
• Protein: 36g
• Cholesterol: 130mg