Buffalo Chicken Blue Cheese Guacamole and Crunchy Baked Onion Ring Salad

When I think of summer gatherings, the first thing that comes to mind is the mouthwatering Buffalo Chicken Blue Cheese Guacamole and Crunchy Baked Onion Ring Salad. It’s the perfect dish to share with friends and family, offering a bold blend of flavors that ignites the taste buds! Recently, I hosted a casual backyard BBQ, and this recipe was the star of the show. The combination of crispy baked onion rings, tender buffalo chicken, and creamy blue cheese guacamole made everyone rave about it. Every bite bursts with flavor, and I couldn’t help but feel a sense of pride as I watched my guests enjoy it.

As I tossed the fresh ingredients together, I reminisced about summer cookouts from my childhood—sharing laughs and delicious food. The vibrant colors of the salad, with the bright greens of lettuce and tomatoes, paired beautifully with the golden-brown chicken and crunchy onion rings. It’s not just a dish; it’s an experience that brings people together. Each component complements the others perfectly, making it a must-try for your next get-together.

This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also allows for playful customization. You can adjust the level of spiciness or add your favorite veggies. The best part? You’ll leave your guests asking for seconds and maybe even the recipe! So grab your apron and let’s dive into creating this delightful Buffalo Chicken Blue Cheese Guacamole and Crunchy Baked Onion Ring Salad!

Main Ingredients for Buffalo Chicken Blue Cheese Guacamole and Crunchy Baked Onion Ring Salad

This recipe brings together a harmonious blend of fresh and flavorful ingredients that work wonderfully together. Each element complements the others, creating a satisfying dish that’s perfect for sharing. The key players in this recipe include tender chicken, creamy blue cheese, and crispy onion rings. Together, they transform simple ingredients into a vibrant and delicious meal.

• 4 smallish chicken breasts cut into strips: The star of the dish, providing a juicy and flavorful base that absorbs the buffalo sauce beautifully.
• 2 inch large sweet onions cut into 1/2 slices: They’re transformed into crunchy onion rings that add texture and sweetness.
• 1 1/2 cups buttermilk: This adds moisture to the chicken, ensuring it remains tender and flavorful throughout the cooking process.
• 1 to 1 1/2 cups + 2 tablespoons buffalo wing sauce: This spicy sauce gives the chicken its signature flavor, adding heat and depth.
• 1 1/4 cups panko bread crumbs: These breadcrumbs create a light, crispy coating for the onion rings, making them irresistible.
• 1 1/4 cups cornmeal: This adds texture and crunch to the breading for the onion rings, enhancing their flavor profile.
• 1/2 cup whole wheat pastry flour: This is used for dredging the onions, contributing to a lovely crispy coating.
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper: A little kick that enhances the overall flavor without overwhelming the dish.
• 8 to 12 cups butter lettuce chopped: The fresh greens provide a light base for the salad, balancing the richness of the other ingredients.
• 1 1/2 cups grape tomatoes halved: Their juicy sweetness offers a refreshing contrast to the spicy chicken.
• 2 carrots sliced into matchsticks: These add a beautiful crunch and a hint of sweetness to the salad.
• 6 green onions sliced: They lend freshness and a mild onion flavor to the dish.
• 1/2 cup fresh cilantro or parsley: This herb brightens the salad, adding a pop of color and flavor.
• 1 batch regular guacamole or mashed avocado: The creamy guacamole serves as a delicious topping that ties all the flavors together.
• crumbled blue cheese for topping: This adds a rich and tangy finish that elevates the dish to another level.
• 3/4 cup plain Greek yogurt: It’s a great base for the dressing, offering a healthy and creamy texture.
• 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley, 1/4 teaspoon each of dried chives, dill weed, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper: These seasonings bring depth and flavor to the dressing.
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne (optional) and 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional): These spices add extra flavor and warmth if desired.

Buffalo Chicken Blue Cheese Guacamole and Crunchy Baked Onion Ring Salad Instructions

Preparing the Buffalo Chicken Blue Cheese Guacamole and Crunchy Baked Onion Ring Salad is a breeze! Follow these easy steps to create this flavorful dish. You’ll love how simple it is to whip up a meal that is sure to impress your guests.

1. To start, make the dressing by mixing together Greek yogurt, parsley, chives, dill, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Add the optional cayenne and smoked paprika if preferred. Mix well to combine. If needed, thin it out with one or two tablespoons of buttermilk. Once done, place it in the fridge until you’re ready to use it.
2. Next, preheat your oven to 450 degrees Fahrenheit. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or a silpat to prevent sticking.
3. In a large bowl, add the chicken strips and pour half of the buttermilk over them (about three-fourths of a cup). Mix well to ensure all the chicken is coated and set aside. In a separate bowl, pour the remaining buttermilk for later use.
4. Now, take the whole wheat pastry flour and place it in a sealable plastic bag. Add the onion slices and shake to coat evenly. Set aside.
5. In a shallow pie dish or large bowl, combine the panko, cornmeal, cayenne, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix well to combine the dry ingredients.
6. Retrieve the bag of onions and shake off any excess flour. Dip each onion ring, one at a time, into the buttermilk, then dredge it in the bread crumb mixture. Place each coated onion ring on the prepared baking sheet. Spray with oil evenly and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the coating is crisp. Season lightly with salt after baking and keep warm.
7. While the onion rings are baking, it’s time to prepare the chicken. Remove each piece from the buttermilk, dredge them through the remaining breadcrumb mixture, gently pressing to adhere the crumbs. Arrange them on the second prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding; use two sheets if necessary. Lightly spray each piece with non-stick spray or mist with olive oil.
8. Place the chicken in the oven and bake for 10 to 12 minutes, then gently flip each piece using kitchen tongs and spray the other side. Bake for an additional 10 to 12 minutes or until cooked through. Remove from the oven and reduce the temperature to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
9. Carefully toss each piece of chicken in the half cup of buffalo sauce, allowing the excess sauce to drain back into the bowl. Return the coated chicken to the pan and repeat this process until all pieces are well-coated. Place both the onion rings and chicken back in the oven for about 5 minutes just to warm them up.
10. While the chicken and onion rings are warming, prepare your salad base. In a large bowl, toss together the butter lettuce, carrots, tomatoes, green onions, and cilantro leaves until well mixed.
11. Divide the salad among four large plates or bowls. Top each with the warm chicken and onion rings. Add a generous dollop of blue cheese guacamole and sprinkle with blue cheese crumbles. Drizzle with ranch dressing and additional buffalo sauce as desired. Now it’s time to dig in!

Helpful Hints

Here are some helpful hints to make sure your Buffalo Chicken Blue Cheese Guacamole and Crunchy Baked Onion Ring Salad turns out perfectly:

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
• Freezing: While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze baked chicken for later use; just ensure to reheat thoroughly.
• Pairing: Consider serving alongside creamy coleslaw or cornbread for a complete meal.
• Vegetarian option: Substitute the chicken with roasted vegetables or tofu for a delicious vegetarian alternative.
• Serving suggestion: This dish is great for lunch or dinner and works wonderfully for game day!

What to Serve Alongside Buffalo Chicken Blue Cheese Guacamole and Crunchy Baked Onion Ring Salad

Elevate your meal by serving it alongside these complementary dishes:

• Grilled corn on the cob: This sweet and smoky side pairs perfectly with the spicy flavors of the salad.
• Potato salad: A creamy potato salad can provide a nice contrast to the spiciness of the Buffalo Chicken.
• Fresh fruit salad: Refreshing fruit adds a sweet touch that balances the heat beautifully.
• Garlic bread: Serve warm garlic bread for a delightful texture that complements the meal.
• Chips and salsa: Start your gathering off with crispy tortilla chips and a zesty salsa to set the tone for the meal.
• Watermelon or cantaloupe: These fresh fruits serve as a delicious and hydrating option to round out the meal.

FAQ

Conclusion

The Buffalo Chicken Blue Cheese Guacamole and Crunchy Baked Onion Ring Salad is a dish that brings together vibrant flavors and textures in a way that’s sure to impress. It’s perfect for summer gatherings or as an exciting weeknight dinner. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe and share it with loved ones; it’s a sure hit that will have everyone asking for more!

Buffalo Chicken Blue Cheese Guacamole and Crunchy Baked Onion Ring Salad

The ultimate comfort food, Buffalo Chicken Blue Cheese Guacamole and Crunchy Baked Onion Ring Salad combines spicy and creamy elements for an easy weeknight dinner. Perfect for summer gatherings, it’s sure to impress with its bold flavors and vibrant colors. Make it tonight for a dish that’s both satisfying and memorable!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Dinner, Side Dishes

Cuisine: American

Calories: 480

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 4 smallish chicken breast cut into strips
• 2 inch large sweet onion cut into 1/2 slices
• 1.5 cups buttermilk
• 1.25 cups panko bread crumbs
• 1.25 cups cornmeal
• 0.5 cup whole wheat pastry flour
• 0.25 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1 pinch salt and pepper
• 12 cups butter lettuce chopped
• 1.5 cups grape tomatoes halved
• 2 carrots sliced into matchsticks
• 6 green onions sliced
• 0.5 cup fresh cilantro or parsley
• 1 batch regular guacamole or mashed avocado
• crumbled blue cheese for topping
• 0.75 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 0.5 teaspoon dried parsley
• 0.25 teaspoon dried chives
• 0.25 teaspoon dried dill weed
• 0.125 teaspoon garlic powder
• 0.125 teaspoon onion powder
• 0.125 teaspoon salt
• 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
• 0.5 teaspoon cayenne optional
• 0.25 teaspoon smoked paprika optional

Equipment

• Oven
• Baking Sheet
• Frying Pan
• Chef's Knife
• Mixing Bowl

Method

 

1. To start, make the dressing by mixing together Greek yogurt, parsley, chives, dill, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Add the optional cayenne and smoked paprika if preferred. Mix well to combine. If needed, thin it out with one or two tablespoons of buttermilk. Once done, place it in the fridge until you’re ready to use it.
2. Next, preheat your oven to 450 degrees Fahrenheit. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or a silpat to prevent sticking.
3. In a large bowl, add the chicken strips and pour half of the buttermilk over them (about three-fourths of a cup). Mix well to ensure all the chicken is coated and set aside. In a separate bowl, pour the remaining buttermilk for later use.
4. Now, take the whole wheat pastry flour and place it in a sealable plastic bag. Add the onion slices and shake to coat evenly. Set aside.
5. In a shallow pie dish or large bowl, combine the panko, cornmeal, cayenne, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix well to combine the dry ingredients.
6. Retrieve the bag of onions and shake off any excess flour. Dip each onion ring, one at a time, into the buttermilk, then dredge it in the bread crumb mixture. Place each coated onion ring on the prepared baking sheet. Spray with oil evenly and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the coating is crisp. Season lightly with salt after baking and keep warm.
7. While the onion rings are baking, it’s time to prepare the chicken. Remove each piece from the buttermilk, dredge them through the remaining breadcrumb mixture, gently pressing to adhere the crumbs. Arrange them on the second prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding; use two sheets if necessary. Lightly spray each piece with non-stick spray or mist with olive oil.
8. Place the chicken in the oven and bake for 10 to 12 minutes, then gently flip each piece using kitchen tongs and spray the other side. Bake for an additional 10 to 12 minutes or until cooked through. Remove from the oven and reduce the temperature to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
9. Carefully toss each piece of chicken in the half cup of buffalo sauce, allowing the excess sauce to drain back into the bowl. Return the coated chicken to the pan and repeat this process until all pieces are well-coated. Place both the onion rings and chicken back in the oven for about 5 minutes just to warm them up.
10. While the chicken and onion rings are warming, prepare your salad base. In a large bowl, toss together the butter lettuce, carrots, tomatoes, green onions, and cilantro leaves until well mixed.
11. Divide the salad among four large plates or bowls. Top each with the warm chicken and onion rings. Add a generous dollop of blue cheese guacamole and sprinkle with blue cheese crumbles. Drizzle with ranch dressing and additional buffalo sauce as desired. Now it’s time to dig in!

Notes

Here are some helpful hints to make sure your Buffalo Chicken Blue Cheese Guacamole and Crunchy Baked Onion Ring Salad turns out perfectly:

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
• Freezing: While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze baked chicken for later use; just ensure to reheat thoroughly.
• Pairing: Consider serving alongside creamy coleslaw or cornbread for a complete meal.
• Vegetarian option: Substitute the chicken with roasted vegetables or tofu for a delicious vegetarian alternative.
• Serving suggestion: This dish is great for lunch or dinner and works wonderfully for game day!

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Meet Adele Mercer

Every meal deserves a spectacular finish, whether it is a savory main or a sweet treat. I enjoy the entire creative cycle, from kneading dough to editing the final photos. I developed this recipe to be approachable for home cooks while ensuring it delivers the high-quality results you expect.