When enjoying the Buffalo Wild Wings Chicken Caesar Salad, pairing it with the right sides can truly elevate the meal. Soft, warm breadsticks are an excellent choice, providing a delightful texture contrast and soaking up any leftover dressing for a satisfying bite.
For those looking to add some spice, Buffalo Cauliflower Bites make a fantastic complement, offering a plant-based twist on the signature Buffalo flavor.
If you crave something crispy, Garlic Parmesan Fries are the way to go, with their satisfying crunch and savory, salty taste.
To balance out the richness of the salad, a light and refreshing fruit salad works wonders, offering a sweet counterpoint to the savory elements of the dish. With these sides, you’re all set for a well-rounded, flavorful meal!
As a registered dietitian and food enthusiast, I often find joy in exploring various culinary delights. Among the many dishes I’ve encountered, the Buffalo Wild Wings Chicken Caesar Salad stands out.
Its crisp greens mingled with tangy dressing and spicy chicken brings a rush of flavors. It’s a dish that doesn’t just fill your belly; it satisfies your tastebuds and perhaps even your soul.
When I first set out to replicate this restaurant favorite at home, I was captivated by the simplicity and joy it embodies. Many might think that restaurant-style salads are complex or out of reach, but I assure you, this one is both approachable and satisfying.
What is Buffalo Wild Wings Chicken Caesar Salad?
This vibrant salad marries elements of the traditional Caesar with the bold flavor of Buffalo chicken.
Fresh romaine lettuce, grilled or fried chicken tossed in spicy Buffalo sauce, creamy Caesar dressing, and just the right amount of crunch from croutons. It’s fresh, it’s spicy, and all-around fun.
Why This Recipe Works
1. Flavor Fusion
The combination of hearty, spicy chicken with creamy Caesar dressing creates a dance of flavors. Spicy, creamy, crunchy—it’s a mouthful worth savoring.
2. Balanced Nutrition
By incorporating lean protein from the chicken and fresh greens, this salad offers not just flavor but nutritional benefits. It delivers fiber, vitamins, and protein without sacrificing taste.
3. Customizable
You can easily adapt this recipe to fit your preferences. Hate anchovies? Skip them. Prefer more heat? Add additional wing sauce. This salad can change with your mood.
4. Quick Preparation
In today’s fast-paced world, meals that are quick to prepare are invaluable. You can whip up this salad in about 30 minutes—perfect for busy evenings or spontaneous gatherings.
Ingredients You’ll Need to Make This Buffalo Wild Wings Chicken Caesar Salad
To get started, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 2 large chicken breasts (approximately 1 pound), sliced in half lengthwise
- ½ cup spicy Buffalo wing sauce
- ½ cup creamy Caesar dressing
- 12 oz romaine lettuce, chopped
- 1 large egg (optional)
- ¼ cup almond meal
- 2 tablespoons tapioca starch
- 1 tablespoon avocado oil (for frying)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon dried Italian herbs
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon sea salt
How to Make This?
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by marinating your chicken. In a bowl, mix the Dijon mustard, onion powder, lemon zest, garlic powder, Italian herbs, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken breasts and ensure they’re well-coated. This step adds depth to the flavor.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
If you’re frying, heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add avocado oil. Coat the chicken in tapioca starch and pan-fry until golden brown and cooked through, about 7-8 minutes on each side. If you’re grilling, preheat the grill and cook for about 6-7 minutes per side or until the juices run clear.
Step 3: Toss Your Greens
While the chicken is cooking, take your chopped romaine lettuce and place it in a large bowl. You want to have enough room to toss everything around later.
Step 4: Add the Dressing
Once your chicken is cooked, chop it into bite-sized pieces. Toss the warm chicken with the Buffalo wing sauce. Then, pour the Caesar dressing over your romaine and gently mix.
Step 5: Assemble the Salad
Combine the chicken with the greens in the large bowl. For extra crunch, consider adding croutons or toasted nuts.
Step 6: Serve
At this point, you can sprinkle some extra parmesan cheese or add boiled eggs, sliced for garnish. Serve immediately for the best texture.
Tips
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh romaine and homemade croutons will enhance the salad’s quality.
- Temperature matters: Serve the chicken warm. This contrast with the cold greens makes for a delightful experience.
- Experiment with toppings: Try adding bacon or avocado for different flavors.
- Dress at the right time: Always dress your salad just before serving to keep the leaves crisp.
- Save leftovers wisely: If you have any salad left, store the greens and chicken separately to maintain freshness.
Nutrition Information
buffalo wild wings chicken caesar salad recipe nutrition facts
How to Store the Leftovers?
To preserve the freshness of your Buffalo Wild Wings Chicken Caesar Salad, store components separately. Keep the chicken, dressing, and greens in airtight containers. They’ll stay fresh in the fridge for up to three days. Don’t forget to give your salad a good toss before serving if you let it rest!
Recommended Side Dishes
Adding a few sides can elevate your meal. Here are some suggestions:
1. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled, it’s a summer classic. Slather with butter and sprinkle with salt for a delightful addition.
2. Coleslaw: A tangy, crunchy slaw can offer a refreshing contrast. Dress it lightly and add some carrots for color.
3. Caprese Skewers: Fresh mozzarella, basil, and cherry tomatoes drizzled with balsamic glaze make for a perfect light bite.
4. Sweet Potato Wedges: Roast seasoned sweet potatoes for a sweet complement to the spicy salad.
Ingredient Substitutes
Sometimes, you might find that you lack a specific ingredient. Here’s how to switch things up:
1. Chicken: If you prefer a vegetarian option, chickpeas or tofu can work beautifully as a substitute.
2. Buffalo Sauce: Sriracha or a homemade spicy mayo can provide the heat you’re after.
3. Caesar Dressing: You can use ranch if that’s your go-to, or make a simple yogurt-based dressing for a lighter option.
4. Romaine Lettuce: Spinach or kale can replace romaine and add different nutritional benefits.
Buffalo Wild Wings Chicken Caesar Salad Recipe
Equipment
- Skillet
- Large bowl
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- ½ teaspoon Onion powder
- 1 teaspoon Lemon zest
- 2 large Chicken breasts approximately 1 pound, sliced in half lengthwise
- ½ cup Spicy Buffalo wing sauce
- ½ cup Creamy Caesar dressing
- 12 oz Romaine lettuce
- 1 large Egg
- ¼ cup Almond meal
- 2 tablespoons Tapioca starch
- 1 tablespoon Avocado oil for frying
- 1 teaspoon Garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon Dried Italian herbs
- ½ teaspoon Ground black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon Sea salt
Instructions
- Start by marinating your chicken. In a bowl, mix the Dijon mustard, onion powder, lemon zest, garlic powder, Italian herbs, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken breasts and ensure they’re well-coated. This step adds depth to the flavor.
- If you’re frying, heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add avocado oil. Coat the chicken in tapioca starch and pan-fry until golden brown and cooked through, about 7-8 minutes on each side. If you’re grilling, preheat the grill and cook for about 6-7 minutes per side or until the juices run clear.
- While the chicken is cooking, take your chopped romaine lettuce and place it in a large bowl. You want to have enough room to toss everything around later.
- Once your chicken is cooked, chop it into bite-sized pieces. Toss the warm chicken with the Buffalo wing sauce. Then, pour the Caesar dressing over your romaine and gently mix.
- Combine the chicken with the greens in the large bowl. For extra crunch, consider adding croutons or toasted nuts.
- At this point, you can sprinkle some extra parmesan cheese or add boiled eggs, sliced for garnish. Serve immediately for the best texture.
Notes
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh romaine and homemade croutons will enhance the salad’s quality.
- Temperature matters: Serve the chicken warm. This contrast with the cold greens makes for a delightful experience.
- Experiment with toppings: Try adding bacon or avocado for different flavors.
- Dress at the right time: Always dress your salad just before serving to keep the leaves crisp.
- Save leftovers wisely: If you have any salad left, store the greens and chicken separately to maintain freshness.
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
Conclusion
The Buffalo Wild Wings Chicken Caesar Salad is a delightful combination of tastes and textures. It’s easy to prepare, and once you master the basics, you can adjust it to fit your cravings or dietary needs.
Whether you’re making it for a quiet dinner or a big gathering, this dish is sure to impress. So next time you’re craving a salad that packs a punch, remember this recipe and enjoy the burst of flavors it brings.
Happy cooking!
