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This hearty Cowboy Chicken Salad has become my go-to dinner for busy weeknights when I want something satisfying yet fresh. The smoky seasoned chicken pairs perfectly with crisp vegetables and a homemade Cowboy Butter Ranch Dressing that ties everything together in one delicious bowl.
I first created this recipe when looking for ways to use leftover grilled chicken from a weekend barbecue. The combination was such a hit with my family that it quickly evolved into this intentional meal that we now make at least twice a month.
Ingredients
- Boneless skinless chicken breasts: provide lean protein and take on the smoky seasoning perfectly
- Smoked paprika: adds that signature southwestern flavor that makes this truly cowboy style
- Black beans and corn: create the authentic Tex Mex foundation
- Fresh jalapeños: bring a bright heat that wakes up all the flavors
- Crispy bacon: adds irresistible savory crunch and smokiness
- Monterey Jack cheese: melts slightly when added to the warm chicken creating creamy pockets
- Homemade Cowboy Butter Ranch Dressing: ties everything together with herb and butter notes
How To Make Cowboy Chicken Salad
- Prepare the chicken:
- Pound chicken breasts to even thickness which ensures they cook evenly and quickly. Take time to really flatten them to about half an inch thickness for best results. Season generously on both sides with the spice mixture making sure every bit of chicken gets covered in those aromatic spices.
- Create the perfect sear:
- Heat the skillet until very hot before adding oil and butter. This combination gives you both high heat cooking and rich flavor. Allow chicken to cook completely undisturbed for the first 4 minutes to develop that gorgeous golden crust that seals in juices.
- Rest the chicken properly:
- After cooking let the chicken rest under foil for a full 5 minutes. This step is crucial as it allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat rather than spilling out when you slice it. The chicken continues cooking slightly during this rest period.
- Build layers of flavor:
- Start with a bed of crisp romaine as your foundation. Then thoughtfully arrange each topping in sections around the bowl before adding the dressing. This creates visual appeal and ensures each bite has multiple components.
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My favorite part of this recipe is how the warm chicken slightly wilts the lettuce underneath it while keeping the outer edges crisp. This creates a wonderful textural contrast that reminds me of the first time I had a similar salad at a small roadside diner during a cross-country road trip with my family.
Make Ahead Tips
The chicken can be seasoned up to 24 hours in advance and stored covered in the refrigerator. This actually intensifies the flavor as the spices have more time to penetrate the meat. You can also cook the chicken completely and refrigerate it for up to 3 days before assembling your salad.
The dressing stays fresh for up to a week in an airtight container in the refrigerator. In fact, it tastes even better after the flavors have had time to meld together overnight. Just give it a good shake before using.
Ingredient Substitutions
No Monterey Jack? White cheddar or pepper jack work beautifully depending on your preference for heat. For a lighter option, try crumbled queso fresco instead.
Romaine can be swapped for any sturdy lettuce like green leaf or iceberg. For a nutrient boost, try using half romaine and half baby spinach or arugula for a peppery kick.
Plant-based eaters can substitute the chicken with seasoned crispy tofu or tempeh that's been cooked with the same spice blend. The salad is hearty enough to satisfy without meat if you prefer.
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Serving Suggestions
This salad transitions seamlessly from casual weeknight dinner to weekend entertaining. For a complete meal, serve with warm flour tortillas or a basket of cornbread on the side.
For a fun presentation at parties, set up a Cowboy Salad Bar with all components separately and let guests build their own bowls. Include extra toppings like pickled red onions, crispy tortilla strips, or pepitas for added crunch.
The salad also pairs wonderfully with a chilled Mexican lager or a non-alcoholic agua fresca for a refreshing contrast to the bold flavors.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What makes the chicken smoky?
The smoky flavor comes from smoked paprika and chili powder in the seasoning mix, which enhances the taste when cooked with olive oil and butter.
- → What is Cowboy Butter Ranch Dressing?
Cowboy Butter Ranch is a creamy dressing made with butter, ranch flavors, and zesty seasonings, adding richness and tanginess to the salad.
- → Can I substitute the vegetables?
Yes, you can customize the salad with your favorite vegetables like cucumbers, bell peppers, or even roasted sweet potatoes for added variety.
- → How can I make it spicier?
To add more heat, increase the cayenne in the chicken seasoning or add extra diced jalapeños to the salad.
- → Is this salad meal-prep friendly?
Absolutely! You can cook the chicken and chop the vegetables in advance. Store the components separately and assemble just before serving to keep it fresh.
- → What’s the best way to cook the bacon?
Cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy, or bake it on a lined sheet in a 400°F oven for about 15 minutes for even cooking.