Chopped Cobb Salad with Buttermilk Ranch Drizzle

This Chopped Cobb Salad with Buttermilk Ranch Drizzle is a vibrant, hearty, and protein-packed meal. Featuring crisp romaine lettuce, tender chicken, creamy avocado, and a rich homemade ranch dressing, it’s a well-balanced dish that satisfies both hunger and taste. Ideal as a main course or a substantial side, this salad is as visually appealing as it is delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This salad is a classic for a reason—it combines contrasting textures and flavors in every bite. From creamy avocado and sharp cheddar to crunchy vegetables and savory chicken, it’s both wholesome and filling. The homemade buttermilk ranch drizzle adds a tangy, herbaceous finish that elevates each component. Customizable and quick to prepare, it’s perfect for lunch, dinner, or meal prep.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Salad:

• romaine lettuce, chopped

• cooked chicken breast, diced

• hard-boiled eggs, chopped

• avocado, diced

• cherry tomatoes, halved

• cucumber, diced

• red onion, finely chopped

• shredded cheddar cheese

• crumbled beef bacon (optional, or omit for vegetarian option)

• salt and black pepper

Buttermilk Ranch Drizzle:

• mayonnaise

• sour cream

• buttermilk

• dried dill

• garlic powder

• onion powder

• salt

• black pepper

• fresh chives or parsley, chopped

Directions

1. Assemble the Salad Base
   Place the chopped romaine lettuce as the foundation in a large salad bowl or on a wide platter.

2. Layer the Ingredients
   Neatly arrange the diced chicken, chopped eggs, avocado, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, cheddar cheese, and beef bacon (if using) in rows or sections over the lettuce.

3. Make the Buttermilk Ranch Drizzle
   In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, and buttermilk until smooth. Stir in the dill, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and fresh chives or parsley.

4. Season and Serve
   Lightly season the salad with salt and black pepper. Drizzle the buttermilk ranch dressing over the top just before serving, or serve it on the side.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Total Time: 15 minutes

• Calories: Approximately 450–500 kcal per serving

Variations

• Vegetarian Version: Omit the chicken and beef bacon. Add chickpeas or roasted tofu for protein.

• Spicy Ranch: Add a dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper to the dressing for a little heat.

• Different Proteins: Swap chicken with turkey, grilled shrimp, or smoked salmon.

• Greens Swap: Use mixed greens, spinach, or butter lettuce instead of romaine.

• Cheese Variety: Replace cheddar with blue cheese, feta, or goat cheese for a different flavor.

storage/reheating

This salad is best enjoyed fresh. If prepping in advance, store the salad components separately and dress just before serving. The buttermilk ranch can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Avoid reheating as this is a cold dish.

FAQs

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, prepare all components in advance but keep the dressing and avocado separate until ready to serve.

How long does homemade ranch dressing last?

Stored in an airtight container in the fridge, it will keep for up to 4 days.

What’s a good substitute for buttermilk?

Mix 1/4 cup milk with 1 teaspoon lemon juice or vinegar and let it sit for 5 minutes.

Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, it is naturally gluten-free if no croutons or gluten-containing ingredients are added.

Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Absolutely. Rotisserie chicken adds flavor and saves time.

What if I don’t have sour cream?

You can substitute Greek yogurt for a similar tang and creaminess.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Use dairy-free cheese and substitute the ranch with a vegan dressing or dairy-free version.

How do I keep avocado from browning?

Add the avocado just before serving or toss it in a little lemon juice to slow browning.

Can I serve this salad as a side?

Yes, simply reduce the portions or pair it with soup, bread, or another entrée.

How can I add more crunch?

Try adding sunflower seeds, toasted nuts, or croutons.

Conclusion

Chopped Cobb Salad with Buttermilk Ranch Drizzle is a balanced and flavorful dish that’s as satisfying as it is nutritious. With its customizable ingredients and creamy homemade dressing, it’s a timeless recipe that’s easy to adapt and perfect for any occasion. Whether served as a main or a side, this salad will quickly become a staple in your kitchen.

Chopped Cobb Salad with Buttermilk Ranch Drizzle

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• Author: Olivia
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Yield: 2–3 servings
• Category: Salad
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

This Chopped Cobb Salad with Buttermilk Ranch Drizzle is a vibrant, protein-packed salad perfect for lunch or a light dinner. Loaded with fresh veggies, creamy avocado, hard-boiled eggs, tender chicken, and a zesty homemade buttermilk ranch, this easy chopped salad is both satisfying and customizable!

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Ingredients

For the Salad:
• 2 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
• 1 cup cooked chicken breast, diced
• 2 hard-boiled eggs, chopped
• 1 avocado, diced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup cucumber, diced
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup crumbled beef bacon (optional or omit for vegetarian)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Buttermilk Ranch Drizzle:
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 1/4 cup buttermilk
• 1 tsp dried dill
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp chopped fresh chives or parsley

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Instructions

• Arrange chopped romaine lettuce in a large salad bowl or on a serving platter.

• Neatly layer the chicken, eggs, avocado, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, cheddar cheese, and beef bacon across the lettuce.

• In a small bowl, whisk together all ingredients for the buttermilk ranch until smooth.

• Drizzle the ranch dressing over the salad just before serving or serve it on the side.

• Season with additional salt and black pepper if needed.

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Notes

• Substitute beef bacon with turkey bacon or vegetarian bacon crumbles.

• Add blue cheese crumbles for a traditional Cobb salad twist.

• Dressing can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.