A hearty and vibrant meal, Buffalo Chicken Power Salad brings together the bold flavor of spicy grilled chicken with crisp, colorful vegetables and a creamy dressing. It’s a satisfying salad that offers the perfect balance of heat, texture, and freshness—all while being high in protein and full of nutrients.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This salad isn’t your typical light fare. With spicy, juicy buffalo chicken at the center, it delivers a bold, satisfying punch in every bite. The crunchy veggies add freshness and fiber, while tangy blue cheese and cool ranch dressing provide a creamy, rich contrast to the heat. Whether you’re looking for a post-workout meal, a filling lunch, or a healthy dinner, this salad checks every box.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts, diced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/4 cup buffalo sauce
• 6 cups mixed greens (spinach, romaine, etc.)
• 1 cup shredded carrots
• 1 red bell pepper, julienned
• 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese (or feta if preferred)
• 1 lime, halved
• 1/4 cup ranch or blue cheese dressing
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Directions

1. In a bowl, toss the diced chicken with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
2. Grill or pan-sear the chicken over medium-high heat for 6–8 minutes, or until cooked through and golden brown.
3. Toss the hot cooked chicken with buffalo sauce until evenly coated. Set aside.
4. In a large salad bowl, spread the mixed greens to form the base.
5. Neatly layer the shredded carrots, julienned red bell pepper, sliced red onion, crumbled blue cheese, and buffalo chicken over the greens.
6. Squeeze fresh lime juice over the top for added brightness.
7. Drizzle with ranch or blue cheese dressing just before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 2 large portions or 4 smaller servings.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Total time: 20 minutes

Variations

• Milder version: Use BBQ sauce or a honey mustard glaze instead of buffalo sauce.
• Dairy-free: Omit cheese and use a dairy-free ranch dressing.
• Low-carb: Replace carrots with cucumber or celery for fewer carbs.
• Add grains: Serve over quinoa or brown rice to turn it into a grain bowl.
• Make it vegetarian: Substitute chicken with buffalo-spiced tofu or chickpeas.

storage/reheating

Store each component separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat the chicken separately in a microwave or skillet until warm, then assemble the salad just before serving to keep the vegetables crisp.
Avoid dressing the salad in advance to prevent sogginess.

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken instead?

Yes, shred it and toss with buffalo sauce. It’s a quick and convenient alternative.

What buffalo sauce should I use?

Any store-bought or homemade buffalo sauce works—choose one that fits your desired heat level.

Can I prep this salad for meal prep?

Yes, keep the dressing and chicken separate until you’re ready to eat.

What other veggies can I include?

Cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, avocado, or corn are great additions.

Can I bake the chicken instead of grilling?

Yes, bake at 400°F (200°C) for 18–20 minutes or until fully cooked.

Is blue cheese necessary?

No, you can substitute feta or omit the cheese altogether.

How can I make this spicier?

Add extra buffalo sauce or a few dashes of hot sauce to the dressing.

Can I use chicken thighs instead?

Yes, boneless skinless thighs work well and offer extra juiciness.

What can I serve with this salad?

It pairs well with garlic bread, sweet potato fries, or a simple soup.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, prep all components in advance but assemble and dress just before serving.

Conclusion

Buffalo Chicken Power Salad is a bold, nutrient-packed dish that delivers both flavor and fuel. With spicy chicken, crunchy vegetables, and a creamy dressing, it’s an energizing salad that’s anything but ordinary. Whether for lunch, dinner, or meal prep, it offers a satisfying and delicious way to eat well without sacrificing taste.

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