Meta Description: Discover a zesty Buffalo Chopped Chicken Salad recipe featuring crunchy veggies, spicy Buffalo chicken, and tangy Gorgonzola. A quick, satisfying meal for any day!
Buffalo Chopped Chicken Salad
Indulge in the bold flavors of this Buffalo Chopped Chicken Salad! With spicy, crunchy chicken, crisp veggies, creamy avocado, and tangy Gorgonzola, this salad is a symphony of tastes and textures. Whether you're whipping it up for a quick lunch or a light dinner, this dish will leave your taste buds dancing!
Ingredients
For the Buffalo Chicken Nuggets:
- 3 small chicken breasts, cut into nugget-sized pieces
- ½ cup Buffalo sauce
- 1 cup rice crumbs
For the Salad:
- 2 ½ cups Romaine or leaf lettuce, chopped
- ½ cup cucumber, diced
- ½ cup carrots, shredded
- ½ avocado, sliced
- ½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 hard-boiled eggs, sliced or chopped
- 2 tbsp Gorgonzola cheese, crumbled
Spices & Seasonings:
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp sea salt
- ½ tsp pepper
- 1 pinch red pepper flakes
Directions
1. Prep the Buffalo Chicken Nuggets
- Coat the Chicken: Toss the chicken pieces in Buffalo sauce, ensuring they are fully coated.
- Bread the Nuggets: Roll the Buffalo-coated chicken in rice crumbs, pressing gently to create an even layer.
- Cook: Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes, or fry until golden and crispy. Set aside.
2. Assemble the Salad
- Chop the Veggies: In a large bowl, combine the lettuce, cucumber, carrots, tomatoes, and avocado.
- Prepare the Eggs: Slice or chop the hard-boiled eggs and add them to the bowl.
3. Add Flavorful Toppings
- Season the Salad: Sprinkle garlic powder, sea salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes over the salad for a zesty kick.
- Garnish with Gorgonzola: Crumble Gorgonzola cheese on top for a creamy and tangy finish.
4. Combine & Serve
- Toss the Salad: Add the crispy Buffalo chicken nuggets to the salad and gently toss to mix.
- Plate & Enjoy: Serve immediately and savor the bold, fresh flavors of this delicious salad.
Tips for Perfect Buffalo Chopped Chicken Salad
- Customize Your Spice Level: Adjust the red pepper flakes or use mild Buffalo sauce if you prefer less heat.
- Gluten-Free Option: Ensure the rice crumbs and Buffalo sauce are gluten-free for a diet-friendly dish.
- Add More Crunch: Toss in some croutons or crispy tortilla strips for extra texture.
- Meal Prep: Prep the chicken and veggies in advance for a quick weekday lunch.
Why You'll Love This Salad
This Buffalo Chopped Chicken Salad is a perfect balance of spicy, savory, and refreshing flavors. The contrast between the crisp veggies, creamy avocado, and tangy Gorgonzola makes every bite an experience. Plus, it’s protein-packed and easy to customize, making it suitable for any occasion