Save The first time I made this ranch chicken chopped salad, I was trying to use up a rotisserie chicken from the night before. I ended up eating it straight from the mixing bowl with a fork while standing at the counter.
My sister was over that afternoon and we ended up making a second batch because the first one disappeared between the two of us. Now whenever she visits, this is the first thing she asks me to make.
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Ingredients
- Cooked chicken breast: Use leftover rotisserie chicken for maximum flavor and convenience
- Romaine lettuce: Gives a satisfying crunch that holds up better than delicate greens
- Greek yogurt: Creates that tangy ranch base while keeping things lighter
- Sharp cheddar: The sharpness cuts through all the fresh vegetables beautifully
- Fresh dill and parsley: These herbs are what make the dressing taste like real ranch not just seasoned yogurt
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Instructions
- Prep your vegetables:
- Chop everything into similar sized pieces so each bite feels balanced and nothing gets left behind in the bowl
- Build your salad base:
- Toss the lettuce chicken corn tomatoes cucumber onion cheese and chives in your largest salad bowl
- Whisk the dressing:
- Combine the yogurt mayonnaise buttermilk and all those herbs and spices until completely smooth
- Bring it all together:
- Pour that creamy ranch dressing over the salad and toss gently until every single piece is coated
- Season and serve:
- Taste a bite and add more salt or pepper if it needs a little wake up call
Save This salad has become my go to for summer potlucks because it travels so well and people always ask for the recipe. I pack the dressing separately and toss it right before eating.
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Making It Your Own
Avocado adds such a creamy element that plays perfectly with the crisp vegetables. Sometimes I swap in crispy bacon for the chicken when I want something extra savory.
Meal Prep Magic
Keep all your chopped ingredients in separate containers in the fridge and they will stay fresh for days. The dressing can be made ahead and actually gets better after a night in the refrigerator.
What To Serve With It
This salad is substantial enough to stand alone but I love pairing it with some warm crusty bread or roasted sweet potatoes on the side.
- Cold iced tea with a squeeze of lemon
- A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc
- Sweet potato fries for a fun twist
Save Hope this becomes one of those recipes you turn to again and again when you want something fresh and satisfying.
Recipe Q&A
- → Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep the chopped vegetables and chicken up to 24 hours in advance. Store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Keep the dressing in a separate jar and toss everything together just before serving to maintain the crisp texture of the vegetables.
- → What type of chicken works best?
Grilled, roasted, or rotisserie chicken all work beautifully. Rotisserie chicken offers excellent convenience and flavor, while grilled chicken adds a subtle smoky note. Simply use about 2 cups of cooked, chopped chicken breast for the best results.
- → Is the Greek yogurt ranch dressing tangy?
The dressing has a pleasant tang from the Greek yogurt and lemon juice, balanced by the creamy mayonnaise and buttermilk. Fresh herbs like dill, parsley, and chives add brightness while garlic and onion powder provide savory depth.
- → Can I use regular ranch dressing instead?
Absolutely! Store-bought ranch works in a pinch, though the Greek yogurt version offers a lighter protein boost and fresher herb flavor. If using bottled dressing, you'll need about 1 cup to coat all the vegetables thoroughly.
- → What vegetables can I add or substitute?
Feel free to add avocado, bell peppers, shredded carrots, or radishes for extra crunch and color. For variations, try swapping the corn for black beans or adding crispy bacon bits. The base of lettuce and chicken stays constant while the mix-ins offer endless customization.
- → How long does the dressing stay fresh?
The Greek yogurt ranch dressing keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The flavors often develop and meld together after a day or two. Give it a good stir before using, as some separation may occur.
