Wildfire Chicken Salad from Bob Evans features tender grilled chicken tossed in a smoky wildfire sauce, mixed with fresh greens, cherry tomatoes, and crunchy tortilla strips, delivering a flavorful and satisfying blend of spicy and crisp textures.
Equipments
- Grill or grill pan
- Mixing bowl
- Tongs
- Salad spinner
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Serving bowls or plates
- Small saucepan (for warming sauce, if needed)
- Measuring spoons/cups
- Salad serving utensils
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup smoky wildfire sauce
- 6 cups mixed fresh salad greens
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes
- 1/2 cup crunchy tortilla strips
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup sliced red onion
- 1/4 cup ranch dressing
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt
- Black pepper
Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for even grilling and optimal tenderness in your Wildfire Chicken Salad. The smoky wildfire sauce is key to achieving the dish's signature flavor, so choose one with a balanced blend of spices for that perfect smoky heat. Fresh mixed salad greens and ripe cherry tomatoes provide a crisp contrast to the spicy chicken, enhancing the overall texture and taste. Crunchy tortilla strips add a satisfying crunch, while shredded cheddar cheese and sliced red onion contribute richness and a bit of sharpness. Your copycat Wildfire Chicken Salad from Bob Evans will closely match the original by carefully balancing these ingredients and ensuring the sauce is well-coated on the chicken.
Instructions
- Preheat grill or grill pan.
- Season chicken breasts with salt and black pepper.
- Lightly brush chicken with olive oil.
- Grill chicken until cooked through, about 6-7 minutes per side.
- Remove chicken from grill and let rest.
- If using cold wildfire sauce, warm it gently in a small saucepan.
- Slice grilled chicken into strips.
- Toss chicken in wildfire sauce until evenly coated.
- Rinse and spin salad greens dry using salad spinner.
- Halve cherry tomatoes.
- Thinly slice red onion.
- Combine salad greens, cherry tomatoes, red onion, shredded cheddar cheese, and tortilla strips in a mixing bowl.
- Toss salad mixture gently.
- Divide salad mixture into serving bowls or plates.
- Top each salad with wildfire chicken strips.
- Drizzle ranch dressing over salads.
- Serve immediately.
Substitution
The Wildfire Chicken Salad from Bob Evans copycat menu can be customized by substituting grilled chicken breasts with rotisserie chicken or pan-seared chicken thighs for added flavor and convenience. If you don't have access to smoky wildfire sauce, mix barbecue sauce with a dash of hot sauce to achieve a similar smoky and spicy flavor profile. Fresh greens can be swapped for kale or spinach depending on your preference or availability. For a dairy-free version, omit the shredded cheddar cheese or replace it with a plant-based alternative. Your salad will retain its satisfying textures and flavors with these adaptable ingredients and simple substitutions.
Tips
Ensure your grill or grill pan is properly preheated to achieve perfect searing on the chicken breasts and to prevent sticking. Letting the grilled chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking helps retain its juices, keeping the meat tender and flavorful. Use a salad spinner to thoroughly dry your greens; excess water can dilute the dressing and make your salad soggy. When coating the chicken with wildfire sauce, warm the sauce gently to enhance its smoky flavor and help it adhere evenly to the chicken strips.
Nutritions
Wildfire Chicken Salad from Bob Evans provides a balanced mix of protein and fresh vegetables, with grilled chicken breasts delivering lean protein essential for muscle repair and growth. The inclusion of mixed fresh salad greens, cherry tomatoes, and red onions offers valuable vitamins, antioxidants, and dietary fiber to support digestion and overall health. Cheddar cheese adds a source of calcium and healthy fats, while the smoky wildfire sauce and ranch dressing contribute flavor but should be consumed in moderation due to added sugars and fats. Your meal supports a nutrient-rich diet by combining quality protein with fresh produce and complementary textures.
Storage
Store any leftover Wildfire Chicken Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness and prevent sogginess. Keep the salad components separate whenever possible; store the chicken coated in wildfire sauce apart from the mixed greens and tortilla strips to preserve texture and flavor. Consume your stored salad within 2 days for optimal taste and food safety.
Variation or Alternatives
You can switch boneless, skinless chicken breasts with grilled boneless thighs for juicier, more flavorful meat that pairs well with the smoky wildfire sauce. Substitute crunchy tortilla strips with toasted pepitas or sliced almonds to add a different texture and nutty flavor. For a lighter option, replace ranch dressing with a tangy lime vinaigrette to complement the spicy chicken while enhancing the freshness of salad greens. Try marinating the chicken in the wildfire sauce before grilling to deepen the smoky, spicy flavor throughout the meat.
Allergies
Wildfire Chicken Salad may pose allergy risks due to ingredients like shredded cheddar cheese and ranch dressing, which often contain dairy and eggs. Tortilla strips might have gluten, and the wildfire sauce could contain spices or preservatives that trigger sensitivities. You should check ingredient labels carefully if you have dairy, egg, or gluten allergies before enjoying this dish.
Why this recipe?
Wildfire Chicken Salad from Bob Evans offers a perfect balance of smoky grilled chicken, fresh greens, and a zesty dressing that appeals to those who crave bold flavors with a healthy twist. Its unique combination of ingredients, including crunchy nuts and dried cranberries, adds texture and sweetness that elevate the salad experience. You can recreate this popular dish at home to enjoy a satisfying, restaurant-quality meal while controlling the freshness and portion size. Making the copycat version allows you to customize flavors and ingredients to suit your dietary preferences without sacrificing taste.