Buffalo Chicken Salad with Homemade Ranch Dressing
If you’ve ever wanted the bold flavor of buffalo wings without the heaviness that comes with them, this salad is for you. It’s packed with fresh, organic veggies, oven-crisped buffalo chicken bites made from Bell & Evans chicken, and a creamy, better-for-you homemade ranch dressing. Think of it as your favorite game-day snack, reimagined as a wholesome, satisfying salad.
What really takes this dish to the next level is the homemade breadcrumbs made from sourdough bread no store-bought breading here! We skip the deep fryer and use avocado oil for a crisp, golden crust. Tossed in Frank’s hot sauce and served over crisp romaine with shredded carrots, cucumber, red onion, and a sprinkle of blue cheese (if you like), this is a weeknight dinner or meal-prep lunch that actually excites you.
My Favorite Brands to Use in This Recipe:
- Bell & Evans Organic Chicken – Their chickens are raised without antibiotics or added hormones, fed a 100% organic, all-vegetable diet, and humanely cared for from hatch to harvest. What truly sets them apart is their air-chilled process. Instead of using chlorinated water baths like many brands, Bell & Evans air-chills their chicken resulting in better flavor, improved texture, and no added water weight. It means a crispier sear, juicier bites, and a more pure, natural taste. I trust it every time I want to serve something clean, simple, and truly delicious.
- Organic Vegetables– Organic produce is grown without synthetic pesticides or GMOs, preserving natural nutrients and flavors while reducing exposure to toxins. Opting for fresh, organic vegetables ensures you’re getting the cleanest, most nutrient-dense ingredients in every bit
- Sourdough Loaf – Unlike ultra-processed breads loaded with added sugars, preservatives, and refined oils, traditional sourdough is made from just a few real ingredients: flour, water, and salt. It’s fermented using wild yeast and lactic acid bacteria, which naturally break down some of the gluten and phytic acid, making the bread easier to digest and the nutrients more bioavailable. Whole Foods has a great variety in their frozen section—just be sure to read the ingredients if you’re not making your own.
- Chosen Foods Avocado Oil – Made from 100% pure avocados never blended with filler oils and naturally rich in healthy fats and antioxidants. With a high smoke point of 500°F, it’s perfect for everything from roasting to sautéing, without breaking down or turning toxic like some other oils. Plus, it’s a heart-healthy, neutral-tasting option that supports clean, anti-inflammatory cooking.
Buffalo Chicken Salad with Homemade Ranch Dressing
Ingredients
For the Buffalo Chicken Salad:
- 1 lb Organic Bell & Evans Chicken Breast
- 1 head Organic Romaine Lettuce
- 2 Organic Carrots (sliced)
- 1 Red Onion
- 1 Cucumber
- Blue Cheese
- 1 cup Franks Hot Sauce
- 1 Sourdough Loaf (For Breadcrumbs)
- 2 Eggs
- 1/2 cup Flour
- Avocado Oil (I like the brand Chosen Foods)
- Seasonings: Garlic, Onion, Salt & Pepper
For the Homemade Ranch Dressing:
- 1/2 cup Avocado Mayo (I like the brand Chosen Foods)
- 1/2 cup Sour Cream
- 1/4 cup Buttermilk
- 1 clove Garlic
- Fresh Herbs (Chives, Cilantro, Dill)
Instructions
- Remove the crust from the sourdough loaf and pulse the bread in a food processor with garlic, onion powder, salt, and pepper until fine breadcrumbs form.
- Cut chicken into small, bite-sized pieces.
- Set up three shallow bowls one with flour, one with whisked eggs, and one with the homemade breadcrumbs. Dip each piece of chicken into the flour, then egg, then breadcrumbs.
- Heat a generous amount of avocado oil in a pan over medium heat. Cook the chicken until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Toss the cooked chicken in hot sauce until well coated.
- Chop romaine, cucumbers, carrots, and red onion into small pieces and arrange them in bowls or a large salad platter.
- In a food processor, blend together avocado mayo, sour cream, garlic, herbs, salt, and pepper until smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Top the salad with the warm buffalo chicken, a drizzle of homemade ranch, green onions, and blue cheese if using.