Spicy Ranch Chopped Chicken Cabbage Salad

Welcome to another fresh and exciting recipe! Today, I’m sharing a flavorful and satisfying dish: Spicy Ranch Chopped Chicken Cabbage Salad.

This dish brings together tender grilled chicken, crunchy cabbage, and a creamy, spicy ranch dressing for an unforgettable meal.

Whether you’re looking for a light lunch, a dinner option, or a delicious side, this salad hits the spot.

How To Make Spicy Ranch Chopped Chicken Cabbage Salad?

Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: American

Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

For the Salad:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 small head of green cabbage (or 4 cups shredded cabbage)
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 small cucumber, diced
• 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking the chicken)

For the Spicy Ranch Dressing:

• 1/2 cup ranch dressing (store-bought or homemade)
• 2 tablespoons sriracha sauce (adjust to taste)
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Grill the Chicken

Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with a little olive oil, salt, and pepper. Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium heat and cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

Once cooked, set the chicken aside and let it rest for 5 minutes before chopping it into bite-sized pieces.

Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables

While the chicken is cooking, prepare the veggies. Shred the cabbage, chop the bell pepper and cucumber, slice the red onion, and chop the cilantro. Place all these ingredients into a large mixing bowl.

Step 3: Make the Spicy Ranch Dressing

In a separate bowl, mix together the ranch dressing, sriracha sauce, lime juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Adjust the level of sriracha based on how spicy you prefer your dressing.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad

Add the grilled chicken to the bowl with the cabbage and vegetables. Pour the spicy ranch dressing over the top and toss everything together until the salad is well-coated and the flavors are evenly distributed.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Serve the Spicy Ranch Chopped Chicken Cabbage Salad immediately for a fresh and crunchy meal. You can also refrigerate the salad for an hour for an even more chilled and refreshing experience.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

Calories: 320 kcal

Protein: 32g

Fat: 18g

Carbohydrates: 12g

Fiber: 4g

Sugar: 5g

Sodium: 720mg

Serving Suggestions

✤ Avocado slices for extra creaminess.

✤ Tortilla chips for a crunchy topping.

✤ A side of grilled corn on the cob for a well-rounded meal.

Tips and Variations

Tips

❖ Grilled Chicken: You can substitute grilled chicken with shredded rotisserie chicken for a quicker option.

❖ Spiciness Level: Adjust the amount of sriracha to your preference for a milder or spicier dressing.

❖ Make Ahead: This salad is perfect for meal prep. You can prep the ingredients and store them separately in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Variations

✔️Vegetarian Option: Swap the chicken for chickpeas or tofu for a vegetarian version.

✔️Add Fruit: Add in some sliced apples or mango for a sweet contrast to the spicy dressing.

✔️Add Nuts: Toss in some roasted almonds or peanuts for a crunchy texture.

Health Benefits

High in Protein

The chicken provides a healthy dose of protein, essential for muscle repair and overall health.

Rich in Fiber

The cabbage and veggies are loaded with fiber, which supports digestion and helps maintain a healthy weight.

Packed with Antioxidants

The vegetables, especially the red bell pepper and cilantro, provide a range of antioxidants that can help reduce inflammation and support immunity.

Notes

You can adjust the dressing’s consistency by adding a little water or milk to make it creamier or thinner.

If you’re making this salad ahead of time, store the dressing separately and add it just before serving to keep the cabbage crunchy.

FAQs

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a vibrant, crunchy, and flavorful salad that’s easy to make and packed with healthy ingredients, this Spicy Ranch Chopped Chicken Cabbage Salad is the answer.

It’s a perfect blend of spicy, creamy, and fresh, making it an ideal choice for any meal. Give it a try, and I’m sure you’ll love it!

Don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends, and feel free to experiment with the ingredients to make it your own.

Enjoy your food!