Grilled Buffalo Chicken Salad

Healthy Grilled Buffalo Chicken Salad is a flavorful dish that brings all the excitement of wing night to your table without the guilt. This salad is perfect for any occasion, from casual weeknight dinners to more festive gatherings. The combination of tender grilled chicken and zesty buffalo sauce creates a satisfying meal that is both delicious and nutritious. Plus, it’s easily adaptable to fit various dietary preferences.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this delightful salad in under 30 minutes.
• Packed with Flavor: The spicy buffalo sauce and savory turkey bacon add an irresistible kick that will satisfy your cravings.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize this salad with your favorite veggies or toppings for a unique twist every time.
• Healthy Option: Low carb, gluten free, and packed with protein, this salad supports your health goals while being oh-so-tasty.

Tools and Preparation

Preparing the Grilled Buffalo Chicken Salad requires some essential tools to make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill or grill pan
• Mixing bowl
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring spoons
• Serving platter

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill or grill pan: Essential for achieving that perfect char on the chicken, adding flavor and texture to your dish.
• Mixing bowl: Handy for combining ingredients like the buffalo sauce and dry rub before applying them to the chicken.
• Knife: A sharp knife ensures easy slicing of vegetables and proteins, making prep quick and safe.

Ingredients

To create this mouthwatering Grilled Buffalo Chicken Salad, gather the following ingredients:

For the Chicken

• 1 chicken breast (medium to large in size)
• 1 tablespoon Ultimate Dry Rub (link in notes below)
• 2 pieces Turkey Bacon
• ½ cup Franks RedHot hot sauce (or your favorite wing sauce)
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter

For the Salad

• 1 head romaine lettuce, chopped
• ½ cup cherry tomatoes
• ¼ red onion, sliced thinly
• ½ avocado, sliced
• 1 carrot, grated
• 1 celery stalk, sliced
• ¼ cup blue cheese crumbles
• Ranch dressing (pour to your preference)
• Salt and pepper to taste

How to Make Grilled Buffalo Chicken Salad

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Begin by prepping all your ingredients. Chop the romaine lettuce, slice the cherry tomatoes and red onion, grate the carrot, and slice the celery. Set aside in a mixing bowl.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

1. Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
2. Season the chicken breast with Ultimate Dry Rub on both sides.
3. Place the chicken on the grill and cook for about 6-7 minutes per side until cooked through.
4. In the last minute of cooking, add turkey bacon on the grill until crispy.
5. Once done, remove chicken from grill and let it rest before slicing.

Step 3: Prepare Buffalo Sauce

In a small saucepan over low heat:
1. Combine Franks RedHot hot sauce and unsalted butter.
2. Stir until melted and well mixed.

Step 4: Assemble Your Salad

1. In a large serving platter or bowl, layer chopped romaine lettuce as a base.
2. Add cherry tomatoes, red onion slices, avocado slices, grated carrot, celery slices, and blue cheese crumbles.
3. Slice grilled chicken breast into strips and place on top of salad.
4. Drizzle buffalo sauce over everything according to your taste preference.
5. Finish with ranch dressing if desired; season with salt and pepper.

Enjoy this delectable Grilled Buffalo Chicken Salad as a healthy yet hearty entree!

How to Serve Grilled Buffalo Chicken Salad

Grilled Buffalo Chicken Salad is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or looking for a quick meal, these serving suggestions will elevate your dining experience.

For Lunch or Dinner

• On a Bed of Greens: Serve the salad on a bed of fresh greens for added crunch and nutrition.
• In a Wrap: Use large lettuce leaves or whole grain wraps to create a delicious handheld meal.
• As a Main Course: This salad works wonderfully as the star of your dinner table, paired with breadsticks or garlic knots.

For Meal Prep

• In Mason Jars: Layer the ingredients in mason jars for easy grab-and-go lunches throughout the week.
• With Extra Protein: Add grilled chicken pieces on top for an extra protein boost if desired.

For Parties

• Buffet Style: Place the salad in a large bowl at your next gathering, allowing guests to serve themselves.
• Mini Cups: Serve individual portions in small cups for an attractive appetizer option at parties.

How to Perfect Grilled Buffalo Chicken Salad

To ensure your Grilled Buffalo Chicken Salad is nothing short of amazing, keep these tips in mind.

• Bold Seasoning: Use the Ultimate Dry Rub generously on your chicken for maximum flavor.
• Perfectly Grill Your Chicken: Grill the chicken until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safe eating and juicy meat.
• Customize Your Sauce: Feel free to mix different hot sauces to find the perfect level of heat that suits your taste.
• Fresh Ingredients Matter: Use fresh vegetables and ripe avocados to enhance both taste and presentation.
• Chill Ingredients: Keep your salad ingredients chilled before serving; it adds to the freshness and crunch.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Buffalo Chicken Salad

Pairing side dishes with your Grilled Buffalo Chicken Salad can create a balanced meal. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Breadsticks: Soft and buttery, these are perfect for soaking up any leftover dressing.
2. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad with vinegar dressing complements the spiciness of the buffalo chicken.
3. Quinoa Pilaf: Add some cooked quinoa mixed with herbs for a nutritious side that’s gluten-free.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables bring warmth and deeper flavors to your meal.
5. Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries offer a sweet contrast to the spicy salad.
6. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad can cleanse your palate after enjoying the rich flavors of the buffalo chicken.
7. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or steamed corn adds sweetness and color to your plate, especially in summer months.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a delicious Grilled Buffalo Chicken Salad can be easy, but there are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Using tough chicken: Always choose fresh, high-quality chicken breast. Marinating it in your favorite sauce or dry rub helps keep it tender and flavorful.
• Skipping the seasoning: Don’t underestimate the power of seasoning. Ensure you generously apply your Ultimate Dry Rub before grilling for maximum flavor.
• Overcooking the chicken: Watch your cooking time closely. Overcooked chicken can become dry; aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
• Neglecting fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables elevate the salad’s taste and texture. Use crisp romaine lettuce, ripe cherry tomatoes, and creamy avocado for the best results.
• Not balancing flavors: A great salad needs balance. Pair the spicy buffalo sauce with cool ranch dressing and creamy blue cheese to enhance flavors.
• Forgetting about toppings: Toppings add texture and flavor. Don’t skimp on grated carrots or sliced celery—they make a big difference!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep the dressing separate until serving to maintain freshness.

Freezing Grilled Buffalo Chicken Salad

• It’s best to freeze only the grilled chicken, as vegetables may not retain their texture after thawing.
• Freeze grilled chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

Reheating Grilled Buffalo Chicken Salad

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place chicken on a baking sheet and cover with foil. Heat for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Place chicken in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes or until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of broth to prevent sticking, then warm chicken for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Grilled Buffalo Chicken Salad.

Can I use turkey instead of chicken in Grilled Buffalo Chicken Salad?

Yes! Turkey breast can be a great alternative. Just ensure it is cooked thoroughly like chicken.

Is Grilled Buffalo Chicken Salad suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This salad can be prepped ahead of time; just store components separately until ready to eat.

How can I make Grilled Buffalo Chicken Salad more filling?

Adding ingredients like quinoa or chickpeas can increase its heartiness without compromising on healthiness.

What if I don’t like blue cheese?

You can substitute blue cheese with feta cheese or omit it entirely. Ranch dressing will still provide creaminess.

Can I make this salad vegetarian?

Yes! Replace grilled chicken with grilled vegetables or plant-based protein options for a hearty vegetarian version.

Final Thoughts

This Grilled Buffalo Chicken Salad is not only satisfying but also versatile enough to cater to various tastes and dietary needs. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite veggies or adjusting spice levels. Give it a try—you won’t regret it!

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Grilled Buffalo Chicken Salad

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• Author: Amelia
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves 2

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Description

Enjoy this healthy Grilled Buffalo Chicken Salad that satisfies cravings without guilt. Try this recipe today and elevate your salad game!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 chicken breast
• 1 tablespoon Ultimate Dry Rub
• 2 pieces turkey bacon
• ½ cup hot sauce (e.g., Frank’s RedHot)
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• 1 head romaine lettuce, chopped
• ½ cup cherry tomatoes
• ¼ red onion, sliced thinly
• ½ avocado, sliced
• 1 carrot, grated
• 1 celery stalk, sliced
• ¼ cup blue cheese crumbles
• Ranch dressing (pour to your preference)
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Prepare all ingredients by chopping vegetables and setting them aside.
2. Preheat the grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Season the chicken with Ultimate Dry Rub and grill for about 6-7 minutes on each side until cooked through. Add turkey bacon in the last minute until crispy.
3. In a saucepan over low heat, combine hot sauce and butter until melted and mixed.
4. Assemble the salad by layering the chopped romaine as a base, adding vegetables and sliced grilled chicken on top. Drizzle with buffalo sauce and ranch dressing if desired.

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

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 420
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 780mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fiber: 7g
• Protein: 38g
• Cholesterol: 85mg