Get ready to transform your boring lunch routine with the ultimate flavor explosion: Buffalo Chicken Quinoa Salad! 🔥 Imagine a protein-packed, zesty dish that combines the tangy kick of buffalo sauce, the creamy coolness of ranch, and the wholesome goodness of quinoa - all in one mouthwatering bowl. This isn't just a salad; it's a culinary adventure that will make your taste buds dance and your body thank you for a nutritious meal that doesn't compromise on flavor. Whether you're a health enthusiast, a spice lover, or just someone looking for a quick and delicious meal, this recipe is about to become your new obsession!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked quinoa
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
- 1/2 cup buffalo sauce
- 1/2 cup diced celery
- 1/2 cup diced carrots
- 1/4 cup blue cheese crumbles
- 1/4 cup ranch dressing
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook quinoa according to package instructions: Rinse quinoa thoroughly in a fine-mesh strainer. Use a 2:1 water to quinoa ratio, bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer covered for 15 minutes until water is absorbed and quinoa is fluffy.
- If using raw chicken, season with salt and pepper, then bake at 375°F for 20-25 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 165°F. Alternatively, use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken and shred into bite-sized pieces.
- While chicken and quinoa are cooking, dice celery and carrots into uniform small cubes, ensuring consistent texture throughout the salad.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked quinoa, shredded chicken, diced celery, and diced carrots.
- Pour buffalo sauce over the mixture and toss thoroughly to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated with the spicy sauce.
- Sprinkle blue cheese crumbles over the salad, gently folding them into the mixture.
- Drizzle ranch dressing over the salad and mix gently to distribute evenly.
- Season with additional salt and pepper to taste, adjusting spice levels as preferred.
- Chill the salad for 15-20 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld together.
- Serve cold as a main dish or side, garnishing with extra blue cheese or chopped green onions if desired.
Tips
- • For the best flavor, use freshly cooked quinoa and allow it to cool slightly before mixing • If you're short on time, rotisserie chicken works perfectly and saves precious meal prep minutes • Adjust buffalo sauce quantity based on your spice tolerance - start with less and add more gradually • For extra crunch, consider toasting the quinoa lightly before cooking • Prep ingredients in advance and store separately to keep the salad fresh and prevent sogginess • Experiment with different cheese options like feta or goat cheese for unique flavor variations • Let the salad sit for 15-20 minutes before serving to allow flavors to blend thoroughly • For a lighter version, use Greek yogurt instead of ranch dressing • This salad keeps well in the refrigerator for 2-3 days, making it perfect for meal prep
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 28g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 95mg
