Description
Indulge in the vibrant flavors of Crispy Buffalo Chicken Salad with Cilantro Ranch, a dish that combines the heat of spicy buffalo chicken tenders with the cool creaminess of homemade cilantro ranch dressing. This salad is perfect for a satisfying lunch or a hearty dinner, featuring fresh greens, crunchy veggies, and creamy avocado. It’s not only easy to make but also packed with nutritious ingredients that will leave you feeling energized. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or hosting friends, this salad is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
- 3 cups chopped romaine
- 3 celery stalks (chopped)
- 1/2 cup shredded cabbage
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1 large avocado (sliced)
- 1 lb chicken tenderloins
- 1 large egg (whisked)
- 3/4 cup blanched almond flour
- 1/4 cup tapioca flour
- 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)
- 1/3 cup hot sauce (e.g., Frank's)
- 1/2 cup homemade 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)
Instructions
- Prepare the cilantro ranch dressing by whisking mayo, coconut milk, garlic powder, onion powder, minced cilantro, chives, dill, lime juice, and salt in a bowl. Cover and refrigerate.
- In a large serving bowl, arrange the chopped romaine and other veggies except for avocado; keep chilled.
- Whisk an egg in one bowl and combine almond flour, tapioca flour, salt, pepper, onion powder, and garlic powder in another.
- Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Dip chicken tenderloins in egg mixture then coat with dry mixture before frying until golden brown on both sides.
- Toss cooked chicken in hot sauce mixed with melted ghee before placing on top of the salad.
- Add sliced avocado just before serving and drizzle with cilantro ranch dressing.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approx. 450g)
- Calories: 490
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 31g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 20g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 23g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 37g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
Keywords: Feel free to adjust the spice level by modifying the amount of hot sauce used. For added protein and texture, consider serving over quinoa or adding chickpeas. Chilling the dressing enhances its flavor; prepare it ahead of time if possible.