O. Ranch Chicken Salad from Buffalo Exchange features tender grilled chicken, crisp romaine lettuce, cherry tomatoes, and shredded cheddar cheese tossed in a creamy ranch dressing, delivering a fresh and savory flavor with a satisfying crunch.
Equipments
- Grill or grill pan
- Chef's knife
- Cutting board
- Salad spinner (optional)
- Large salad bowl
- Tongs
- Cheese grater
- Mixing spoon
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 large head romaine lettuce
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing
Ensure the chicken breasts are evenly coated with olive oil, salt, and black pepper before grilling to enhance flavor and retain juiciness. Use fresh, crisp romaine lettuce washed thoroughly, preferably with a salad spinner, to maintain a refreshing crunch in your salad. Selecting ripe cherry tomatoes ensures a burst of sweetness that complements the creamy ranch dressing. Shredded cheddar cheese adds a rich, savory element, so grate it fresh for the best taste and texture. You can recreate the delicious O. Ranch Chicken Salad from Buffalo Exchange copycat menu by combining these quality ingredients with proper preparation techniques.
Instructions
- Preheat the grill or grill pan.
- Brush chicken breasts with olive oil and season with salt and black pepper.
- Grill chicken breasts until fully cooked; set aside to rest.
- Wash and dry romaine lettuce using a salad spinner (optional).
- Chop romaine lettuce with chef’s knife on cutting board.
- Halve cherry tomatoes.
- Shred cheddar cheese using a cheese grater if not pre-shredded.
- Slice grilled chicken into strips or bite-sized pieces.
- Add chopped lettuce, cherry tomatoes, shredded cheddar, and sliced chicken to a large salad bowl.
- Drizzle ranch dressing over all ingredients.
- Toss the salad gently with tongs or a mixing spoon to combine.
- Serve immediately.
Substitution
O. Ranch Chicken Salad from Buffalo Exchange copycat menu combines grilled chicken, romaine lettuce, cherry tomatoes, and shredded cheddar cheese in a creamy ranch dressing for a classic, flavorful dish. If you don't have a grill or grill pan, you can cook the chicken breasts in a skillet over medium heat to achieve a similar texture. Romaine lettuce can be substituted with other crisp greens like iceberg or kale to maintain the crunch. When shredded cheddar cheese is unavailable, try using any mild or sharp cheddar block cheese grated fresh for better flavor and texture. You can adjust the amount of ranch dressing to your taste for creaminess without overwhelming the salad.
Tips
Ensure the chicken breasts are evenly flattened for uniform grilling and avoid undercooking by checking internal temperature reaches 165degF (74degC). Thoroughly dry the romaine lettuce after washing to prevent a soggy salad. Using fresh, high-quality ranch dressing enhances the overall flavor and texture of your salad. When tossing, gently mix the ingredients to maintain the crispness of the vegetables and prevent the dressing from overpowering your salad.
Nutritions
The O. Ranch Chicken Salad provides a balanced mix of protein, fiber, and healthy fats, primarily from the grilled chicken and olive oil used in preparation. Romaine lettuce and cherry tomatoes add essential vitamins like A and C, along with dietary fiber to support digestion. Cheddar cheese contributes calcium and provides a rich source of saturated fat, while the ranch dressing adds creaminess but also increases calorie and sodium content. Your meal choice offers a flavorful way to meet daily nutrient needs while enjoying a satisfying crunch and creamy texture.
Storage
Store leftover O. Ranch Chicken Salad in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent moisture buildup. Keep the salad refrigerated at or below 40degF (4degC) and consume within 2 days for optimal taste and safety. Avoid storing the salad with dressing mixed in for extended periods to preserve the texture and crispness of your ingredients.
Variation or Alternatives
You can substitute grilled chicken breasts with rotisserie chicken for a quicker preparation while maintaining protein richness. Swap romaine lettuce for baby spinach or mixed greens to boost nutritional variety and texture. Use Greek yogurt mixed with herbs as a lighter alternative to traditional ranch dressing, enhancing creaminess without added calories. Consider adding avocado slices or crispy bacon bits to increase flavor complexity and satisfy different taste preferences.
Allergies
Your O. Ranch Chicken Salad contains common allergens such as dairy from the shredded cheddar cheese and ranch dressing, which may pose a risk for those with lactose intolerance or milk allergies. The salad also includes chicken, which is generally safe but could trigger allergies in rare cases. Always check the ranch dressing ingredients for additional allergens like eggs or soy to ensure your safety.
Why this recipe?
The O. Ranch Chicken Salad from Buffalo Exchange restaurant is popular for its perfectly seasoned grilled chicken paired with fresh vegetables and a creamy, tangy dressing that enhances every bite. The blend of textures and flavors creates a satisfying, wholesome meal that appeals to health-conscious diners seeking taste and nutrition. Making a copycat version allows you to replicate this balanced dish at home, controlling ingredient quality and customizing flavors to suit your preferences. This recipe is worth trying as it offers a convenient way to enjoy a gourmet salad experience without dining out.