Buffalo Chicken Cobb Salad

This buffalo chicken cobb salad has become my go-to lunch whenever I am craving something hearty and tangy but still packed with crisp veggies and fresh flavor. It is everything you want in a satisfying meal salad, and the homemade dressing makes it taste extra special every single time.

I first tossed together a version of this salad for a game day party when I wanted big buffalo wing flavor with more crunch and color. Since then it is the salad I crave the most on busy workdays when I want something filling but still fresh.

Ingredients

• Romaine lettuce: Chopped romaine provides crisp texture and holds up well under hearty toppings Look for heads with deep green leaves and no browning at the edges
• Microgreens or sprouts: Optional but they add a burst of freshness I like to use spicy radish or pea shoots for a little zing
• Cherry tomatoes: Use ripe juicy cherry or grape tomatoes for a sweet pop of color Slice them in half for easier eating
• Cucumber: English or Persian cucumbers are best because they have thin skins and mild flavor Slice thinly so they blend well throughout the salad
• Red onion: Thinly sliced red onion gives a sharp bite and nice color Choose a firm onion with smooth skin
• Green onion: Adds mild flavor and a bit of color Try to pick stalks that are firm with bright green tops
• Shredded cooked chicken: Use leftover roast chicken or storebought rotisserie for ease Make sure it is juicy and not overcooked
• Crumbled cooked bacon: Adds smoky crunchy flavor Cook fresh bacon if possible and drain it well for texture
• Hard boiled eggs: Creamy texture and protein Use eggs that are a week old for easier peeling
• Crumbled blue cheese: For a pungent tangy touch Choose a good quality blue cheese for best flavor If you are not a fan sub with feta or goat cheese
• Buffalo sauce: Key for that classic buffalo flavor Use your favorite brand or make your own with hot sauce and melted butter
• Homemade blue cheese dressing or vinaigrette: You can go creamy or light depending on your preference Maple balsamic is lovely for a sweeter touch
• Freshly cracked black pepper and sea salt: Use these to finish the salad and highlight all the flavors
• Avocado: Sliced fresh right before serving for creamy richness Hass avocados are the best for slicing because they hold their shape

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Dressing:

Mix up your preferred dressing ahead of time whether you choose creamy blue cheese red wine vinaigrette or maple balsamic vinaigrette Allow it to sit for at least ten minutes so the flavors meld

Warm and Flavor the Chicken:

On the stove heat one teaspoon of cooking oil in a skillet over medium heat Add the shredded cooked chicken and stir for three to five minutes until it is warmed through Turn off the heat then pour on the buffalo sauce Toss until every piece is coated and set aside to cool slightly

Build the Salad Layers:

Place the chopped romaine lettuce into two wide shallow bowls Arrange microgreens or sprouts evenly across both bowls Top each with buffalo chicken crumbled bacon halved hard boiled eggs blue cheese cherry tomatoes cucumber thinly sliced avocado red onion and green onion Make your presentation colorful and balanced

Dress and Finish:

Just before serving drizzle your homemade dressing or vinaigrette over each salad to taste Sprinkle with freshly cracked black pepper and a pinch of sea salt Serve immediately for the freshest texture

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You Must Know

I always look forward to the burst of flavor from creamy blue cheese against the spicy buffalo chicken It brings back memories of summer barbecues with my dad where he would not let us near the grill but always saved the spicy chicken just for us

Storage Tips

For best results keep each component separate and assemble right before eating Store the chicken bacon and eggs in airtight containers in the fridge up to three days The dressing should be stored covered in a jar or bottle Avocado should be cut right before serving since it browns quickly If you want to prep ahead leaving out the avocado and adding just before eating is the best way to ensure freshness

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap out blue cheese for goat cheese or feta if you prefer a milder flavor For a dairy free option use a vegan blue cheese or vinaigrette Try grilled shrimp or tofu for a protein switch up If you are not a fan of bacon roasted chickpeas or crispy shallots work well for crunch

Serving Suggestions

This buffalo chicken cobb salad is hearty enough on its own but pairs great with toasted baguette slices fruit salad or a cold glass of iced tea For parties try making salad jars with layers for grab and go convenience My family loves this salad with extra buffalo sauce on the side for dipping

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Buffalo Chicken Cobb History

The classic cobb salad started in Hollywood in the 1930s and was all about using up fridge staples This buffalo twist brings bold American bar flavor with that familiar blue cheese touch I like to serve it for casual backyard dinners where everyone can pick their favorite toppings

Common Recipe Questions

→ How spicy is the buffalo chicken?

The heat level depends on your buffalo sauce. Use mild or hot sauce to suit your taste.

→ Can I use rotisserie chicken for the salad?

Yes, rotisserie chicken works well and saves prep time. Just shred and toss with buffalo sauce.

→ Which dressing pairs best with this salad?

Homemade blue cheese dressing complements the spicy chicken, while vinaigrettes offer a lighter option.

→ How can I make this salad ahead of time?

Prepare all components and store them separately. Add dressing and avocado just before serving.

→ What’s a good substitute for blue cheese?

Feta or goat cheese provide a creamy, tangy alternative to blue cheese in this salad.

→ Are there vegetarian alternatives for the proteins?

Try grilled tofu, chickpeas, or tempeh tossed in buffalo sauce for a vegetarian variation.