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

This Crispy Buffalo Chicken Salad with Cilantro Ranch {Paleo, Whole30, Keto} is perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. The crispy chicken tenders coated in a zesty buffalo sauce add a delightful crunch and flavor to the fresh greens. Topped off with a creamy cilantro ranch dressing, this salad is not only easy to make but also loaded with nutrients and satisfying enough to be a meal on its own.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful Kick: The combination of crispy chicken and spicy buffalo sauce creates an irresistible taste sensation.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with nutrient-rich vegetables and healthy fats, this salad supports your wellness goals.
• Easy Prep: With straightforward steps, you can whip this up quickly, making it ideal for busy schedules.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect for lunch, dinner, or meal prep; it’s suitable for various occasions.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Everyone will enjoy the delicious flavors, making it great for gatherings.

Tools and Preparation

To create this scrumptious salad, you’ll need some essential tools.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large serving bowl
• Skillet
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Tongs

Importance of Each Tool

• Large serving bowl: Ideal for mixing all your fresh ingredients together without spilling.
• Skillet: A non-stick skillet ensures that your chicken cooks evenly and prevents sticking during frying.
• Mixing bowls: Useful for preparing the dressing and coating mixtures separately before combining them.
• Whisk: Helps achieve a smooth dressing blend without any lumps.

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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 Crispy 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 Franks 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)

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

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 Ingredients

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 you prepare the chicken.

Step 3: Prepare Chicken Coating

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

Step 4: Heat Oil in Skillet

Heat a large skillet over medium to medium-high heat. Add either coconut or avocado oil for frying.

Step 5: Coat Chicken Tenders

Once sizzling hot, dip each piece of chicken into the whisked egg. Shake off excess liquid before coating each piece with the dry mixture. Carefully place them in the skillet. Repeat with all chicken pieces.

Step 6: Fry Chicken Tenders

Cook one side until golden brown for about 3 minutes. Adjust heat if necessary. Turn carefully using tongs to avoid losing any breading.

Step 7: Finish Cooking Chicken

Cook on the second side until golden brown outside and fully cooked inside—about 6 minutes total depending on thickness.

Step 8: Cool Chicken

Remove chicken to a paper towel-lined plate and allow it to cool slightly.

Step 9: Prepare Buffalo Sauce

In a bowl, whisk together hot sauce and melted ghee. Dip each piece of fried chicken into this sauce to coat fully before placing on a cutting board. Alternatively, keep pieces whole if desired over the salad later.

Step 10: Serve

Cut chicken into bite-sized pieces if preferred then arrange it over your prepared salad. Drizzle any leftover buffalo sauce over everything. Arrange sliced avocado around the chicken pieces and serve immediately with cilantro ranch dressing on the side. Enjoy!

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

Crispy Buffalo Chicken Salad with Cilantro Ranch is not only delicious but also versatile in how you choose to serve it. Whether for a casual family dinner or a festive gathering, here are some great serving suggestions.

Add Extra Crunch

• Tortilla Chips: Serve alongside crunchy tortilla chips for a delightful contrast in texture.
• Nuts and Seeds: Sprinkle some toasted pumpkin seeds or sliced almonds on top for an added crunch and nutty flavor.

Pair with Fresh Fruits

• Citrus Slices: Fresh orange or grapefruit slices can enhance the salad’s flavors and add a refreshing touch.
• Fruit Skewers: Serve small fruit skewers with strawberries, melon, or pineapple as a light and colorful side.

Create a Platter

• Buffalo Chicken Wraps: Wrap some salad ingredients in lettuce leaves for fun, handheld bites.
• Veggie Platter: Offer a variety of fresh vegetables like cucumber, bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes as a vibrant addition.

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

Perfecting your Crispy Buffalo Chicken Salad involves attention to detail to ensure great flavor and texture. Here are some tips to elevate your dish:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh greens and vegetables to enhance the salad’s taste and appearance.
• Keep Oil Hot: Ensure the frying oil is hot enough before adding chicken. This helps achieve that perfect crispy coating.
• Customize Your Dressing: Feel free to adjust the ranch dressing by adding herbs like dill or parsley for extra flavor.
• Slice Avocado Just Before Serving: To avoid browning, slice your avocado right before serving the salad for optimal freshness.

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

To complement your Crispy Buffalo Chicken Salad, consider these side dishes that enhance the overall meal experience:

1. Guacamole: A creamy avocado dip that pairs perfectly with the spicy flavors of the salad. Serve it with vegetable sticks or gluten-free crackers.
2. Zucchini Noodles: Lightly sautéed zucchini noodles can be a great low-carb side that adds volume without carbs.
3. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: These provide a hint of sweetness and balance the heat from the buffalo sauce. Simply cube and roast until golden.
4. Cauliflower Rice: A fluffy alternative that packs nutrients while keeping it light; season it simply with salt and lime juice.
5. Coleslaw: A crunchy side made from cabbage and carrots dressed in vinegar-based dressing adds an additional layer of crunch.
6. Grilled Asparagus: This tender yet crisp vegetable brings an earthy flavor that complements the richness of chicken and dressing.
7. Stuffed Bell Peppers: Fill bell peppers with quinoa or cauliflower rice mixed with spices as a colorful side option.
8. Cucumber Salad: Refreshing cucumber slices tossed in lemon juice make a zesty balance to the spicy chicken salad.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can make your Crispy Buffalo Chicken Salad with Cilantro Ranch even better.

• Overcooking the Chicken: Cooking chicken for too long can lead to dryness. Monitor cooking time closely and use a meat thermometer to ensure it’s cooked through but still juicy.
• Neglecting the Dressing: Skipping the dressing can lead to a bland salad. Make sure to whisk the ingredients thoroughly and let it chill for added flavor.
• Using the Wrong Oil: Using oil with a low smoke point can cause burning. Choose coconut or avocado oil for frying, as they handle high heat well.
• Letting Ingredients Sit Too Long: Allowing chopped vegetables to sit can cause them to wilt. Prepare them just before serving for maximum freshness.
• Skipping Avocado Preparation: Slicing avocado early can lead to browning. Cut it right before serving to keep it vibrant and fresh.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

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

• It’s best to freeze only the chicken; salads don’t freeze well.
• Wrap chicken tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag. Use within 2 months.

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

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place chicken on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place chicken on a microwave-safe plate and cover. Heat in 30-second intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth if needed to keep it moist.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about this recipe.

What makes this Crispy Buffalo Chicken Salad perfect for meal prep?

This salad is easy to prepare ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy healthy meals throughout the week without much effort.

Can I customize the ingredients in the Crispy Buffalo Chicken Salad?

Absolutely! You can add or substitute vegetables like bell peppers or cucumbers based on your preferences.

How do I keep my salad fresh longer?

Store dressing separately from the salad components and combine them right before serving to maintain freshness.

Is this recipe suitable for special diets?

Yes, this Crispy Buffalo Chicken Salad is compliant with Paleo, Whole30, and Keto diets while being deliciously satisfying.

Final Thoughts

This Crispy Buffalo Chicken Salad with Cilantro Ranch is not only flavorful but also versatile. You can easily customize it with different vegetables or proteins according to your taste preferences. We encourage you to try this recipe and enjoy its delightful mix of textures and flavors!