Ranch Chicken Chopped Salad

Last summer my neighbor brought over a container of this salad after I'd mentioned feeling stuck in a lunch rut. One bite and I completely understood why her family requests it weekly. There is something magical about how the cool yogurt ranch brings everything together without overwhelming the fresh vegetables.

My sister-in-law started making a version of this after her doctor suggested more protein-heavy lunches. She served it to me during a visit and I watched her kids actually fight over the last serving. That is when you know a salad is doing something right.

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked chicken breast: Rotisserie chicken works beautifully here and saves so much time
• 5 cups romaine lettuce: Provides that satisfying crunch that holds up perfectly under dressing
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes: Look for ones that feel heavy and burst when you bite into them
• 1 cup corn kernels: Sweet pops of brightness that balance the sharp cheddar
• 1 cup cucumber: Adds incredible freshness and another layer of texture
• 1/2 cup sharp cheddar: The sharpness matters here as it cuts through the creamy dressing
• 1/4 cup red onion: Finely dice it so the flavor is present but not overwhelming
• 1/4 cup fresh chives: A mild onion flavor that ties everything together beautifully
• 3/4 cup Greek yogurt: The base that makes this ranch so much better than bottled versions
• 2 tablespoons mayonnaise: Just enough to add that authentic ranch richness
• 2 tablespoons buttermilk: Thins the dressing to perfect consistency while adding tang
• Fresh dill and parsley: These herbs make all the difference between good and great ranch

Instructions

Prep your fresh ingredients:

Chop everything into similar sized pieces so each forkful gets a little of everything

Build the salad base:

Toss all the salad ingredients in your largest bowl leaving plenty of room for mixing

Whisk the dressing:

Combine all dressing ingredients until smooth then let it sit for five minutes to meld flavors

Bring it all together:

Pour the dressing over and toss gently until every piece is lightly coated

Final touch:

Taste immediately and add more salt or pepper if needed then serve while everything still has that perfect crunch

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The first time I made this for a potluck three people asked for the recipe before they even finished their plates. Something about the combination of textures and that house-made ranch makes people feel cared for.

Make It Your Own

I have tried swapping in spinach when lettuce was not available and while it works the texture difference is noticeable. The romaine really does provide the backbone that makes each bite satisfying.

Meal Prep Magic

Keep the dressing in a separate jar and store prepped ingredients in containers. This keeps everything fresh for three days and makes throwing lunch together completely effortless.

Serving Suggestions

This salad is substantial enough to stand alone but I love serving it with warm cornbread or crusty bread. The contrast between hot bread and cold salad is something special.

• Try adding crispy prosciutto instead of bacon for a salty upgrade
• Avocado adds creaminess but add it right before serving
• A squeeze of fresh lime over the top brightens everything

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This salad has become my go-to for everything from weeknight dinners to feeding a crowd. Fresh vibrant and satisfying.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I prepare this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can chop all ingredients and store them separately in airtight containers up to 24 hours in advance. Keep the dressing separate and toss just before serving to maintain crispness and prevent sogginess.

→ What are good alternatives to Greek yogurt for the dressing?

You can substitute plain yogurt for a lighter texture, or use sour cream for a tangier flavor. For dairy-free options, try cashew cream or silken tofu blended with plant-based milk.

→ How do I make this gluten-free?

This salad is naturally gluten-free as written. Simply verify that your mayonnaise and any purchased ranch seasonings are certified gluten-free, as some brands may contain hidden gluten sources.

→ What's the best way to cook the chicken for this salad?

Grilled or roasted chicken breast works best for optimal flavor and texture. Season well before cooking, and avoid overcooking to keep the meat tender. Rotisserie chicken is also a convenient shortcut that delivers excellent results.

→ Can I add other vegetables or proteins?

Absolutely. Avocado, crispy bacon, chickpeas, grilled shrimp, or hard-boiled eggs work wonderfully. Bell peppers, radishes, broccoli florets, and sunflower seeds also add great texture and nutrition.

→ How long does the dressing keep?

The Greek yogurt ranch dressing stays fresh in an airtight container for up to 5 days refrigerated. Give it a quick stir before using, as it may separate slightly over time.