Buffalo Chicken Salad with Ranch Dressing

Step-by-Step Method:

1. Prepare the chicken:
   • In a bowl, toss shredded chicken with buffalo sauce and melted butter until coated.
   • Set aside to absorb flavors while you prep the salad base.
2. Make the ranch dressing:
   • In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream (or yogurt), buttermilk, dill, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
   • Adjust thickness by adding more buttermilk or yogurt, as desired.
3. Build the salad:
   • Arrange chopped romaine and cabbage (or kale) in a large serving bowl or platter.
   • Top evenly with celery, bell pepper, and cherry tomatoes.
   • Place buffalo-coated chicken over the vegetables.
4. Add toppings:
   • Sprinkle blue cheese or cheddar, avocado slices, and chives over the chicken.
   • If using, add tortilla strips or chips for extra crunch.
5. Drizzle dressing and serve:Generously drizzle ranch dressing over the entire salad. Toss lightly or serve as composed for visual appeal. Enjoy immediately.

Tips & Variations:

• Make it spicy: Add a dash of cayenne or chopped pickled jalapeños.
• Lower calorie: Use Greek yogurt–based ranch and skip the butter in the buffalo sauce.
• Grain bowl: Serve on cooked quinoa or brown rice for a hearty meal.
• Vegetarian twist: Replace chicken with roasted cauliflower florets tossed in buffalo sauce.
• Dairy-free: Use dairy-free mayo and yogurt for the ranch dressing; omit cheese.