Name: Thai Chicken Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: Thai
Ingredients: ½ cup peanut butter; ¼ cup soy sauce; ¼ cup chicken broth; 2 tablespoons lime juice; 2 tablespoons honey; 1 teaspoon sriracha, can sub hot sauce; ¾ teaspoon garlic powder; ½ teaspoon toasted sesame oil; ½ teaspoon ground ginger; 4 cups shredded chicken; 4 cups green cabbage, shredded; 1 cup red cabbage, shredded; 1 red bell pepper, diced; 1 cup carrots, julienned; 1 (11 oz.) can mandarin oranges, drained and patted dry; ½ cup green onions; ¼ cup cilantro, roughly chopped; ½ cup honey roasted peanuts; 1/3 cup slivered almonds; Optional: Chow Mein Noodles, Crispy Wonton Strips, Toasted Sesame Seeds

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Introduction to Thai Chicken Salad

I often find myself searching for a quick yet satisfying meal. That’s where my favorite Thai Chicken Salad comes in! Bursting with vibrant flavors and fresh crunch, this salad is not just a dish; it’s a delightful experience on a plate. It’s perfect for impressing loved ones or enjoying as a light meal when time is tight. Imagine tossing together juicy chicken, colorful veggies, and a creamy peanut dressing that dances on your taste buds. Trust me, with this recipe, you’ll have dinner sorted in just 15 minutes!

Why You’ll Love This Thai Chicken Salad

This Thai Chicken Salad checks all the boxes for an easy, delicious meal. In just 15 minutes, you’ll have a plateful of goodness that’s both satisfying and refreshing. It’s incredibly versatile—perfect for using up leftover chicken or adding whatever veggies you have on hand. Plus, the creamy peanut dressing takes it to a whole new level! Trust me, your family will be coming back for seconds.

Ingredients for Thai Chicken Salad

Gathering the perfect ingredients is half the fun of making this Thai Chicken Salad! Here’s what you’ll need to make this vibrant dish:

Peanut Butter: Creamy or crunchy, this is the heart of our peanut dressing.
Soy Sauce: Adds depth and umami flavor. Go for low-sodium if you prefer less salt!
Chicken Broth: A pinch of flavor for the dressing, though you can use vegetable broth if you wish.
Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed lime juice brightens everything up and adds that zesty pop.
Honey: This natural sweetener balances the heat and saltiness beautifully.
Sriracha: For a bit of heat! Adjust according to your spice tolerance—or skip it for a milder salad.
Garlic Powder: A dash adds savory depth to the dressing.
Toasted Sesame Oil: This provides a lovely nutty flavor that complements the peanut butter.
Ground Ginger: It gives the dish a warm, spicy kick.
Shredded Chicken: Rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut for this recipe.
Green Cabbage: Its crunchy texture adds freshness—shredded, of course!
Red Cabbage: This adds color and a slightly sweeter taste.
Red Bell Pepper: Sweet and juicy, it brings everything together with its vibrant crunch.
Carrots: Julienned for that extra crunch and beautiful color contrast.
Mandarin Oranges: These little gems add a burst of sweetness! Just make sure they’re well-drained.
Green Onions: Sliced for a mild onion flavor and some green goodness.
Cilantro: This herb adds a refreshing twist; if you’re not a fan, omit it or substitute with parsley.
Honey Roasted Peanuts: They add a sweet crunch—simply irresistible!
Slivered Almonds: For extra texture and nutty flavor.
Optional Ingredients: Chow Mein noodles or crispy wonton strips are great for added crunch, and toasted sesame seeds make a beautiful garnish!

All the specific measurements are provided at the bottom of the article for you to print and keep handy. Happy cooking!

How to Make Thai Chicken Salad

Creating this Thai Chicken Salad is easier than a Sunday morning! Let’s dive into the steps, ensuring your experience is as delightful as the dish itself. You’ll be amazed at how quickly it comes together, making your weeknight meal a breeze.

Step 1: Prepare the Dressing

Combine ingredients in a food processor or bowl

Start by gathering all the dressing ingredients. In a food processor or mixing bowl, combine the peanut butter, soy sauce, chicken broth, lime juice, honey, sriracha, garlic powder, sesame oil, and ground ginger.

If you’re feeling ambitious, a whisk can work fine too! Blend until everything is smooth and creamy.

Isn’t it tempting already? Let the dressing chill in the fridge while you prep the salad. This allows the flavors to mingle and really shine!

Step 2: Prepare the Salad

Toss the salad ingredients in a large bowl

Now, onto the star of the show—the salad! Grab a big bowl and toss in your shredded chicken, both types of cabbage, red bell pepper, carrots, mandarin oranges, green onions, and cilantro.

Don’t hesitate to get your hands in there! This is where the magic begins.

Mix everything together until it’s a colorful burst of freshness. Look at those vibrant hues! It’s almost too beautiful to eat.

Step 3: Combine and Serve

Add dressing incrementally and mix

When you’re ready to serve, drizzle in the chilled dressing gradually. Toss everything together gently.

Keep adding until you reach your perfect level of creaminess.

Don’t worry if you don’t use all the dressing; it’s good to have some leftover for another salad later in the week. Serve immediately and watch your family savor every bite. Enjoy!

Tips for Success

Use rotisserie chicken for quick, flavorful protein.
Make the dressing ahead of time to let the flavors blend.
Prep veggies in advance for an easy meal option during busy weeks.
Customize with favorite vegetables or proteins to suit your family’s taste.
For extra crunch, add crispy wonton strips just before serving.

Equipment Needed

Large mixing bowl for tossing salad ingredients.
Food processor or whisk for blending the dressing.
Cutting board and sharp knife for chopping veggies.
Measuring cups for precise ingredient portions.
Serving utensils for easy dish-out.

Variations

Protein Swap: Try shredded cooked shrimp or tofu for a vegetarian option.
Veggie Add-Ins: Toss in snap peas, cucumbers, or edamame for extra crunch and nutrients.
Grain Base: Serve over cooked quinoa or brown rice for a heartier meal.
Spicy Kick: Add fresh jalapeños or increase the sriracha for those who love heat!
Nut-Free: Substitute sunflower seed butter and sunflower seeds to make the dish nut-free.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with a cool cucumber and mint salad for a refreshing side.
Serve alongside a chilled glass of iced jasmine tea for a delightful twist.
For presentation, garnish with extra cilantro and lime wedges on the side.
Consider adding a tropical fruit platter for a beautiful, colorful spread.
Wrap leftovers in lettuce leaves for a fun, easy lunch option!

FAQs about Thai Chicken Salad

What makes Thai Chicken Salad different from regular chicken salad?

Thai Chicken Salad bursts with bold flavors and ingredients like peanut butter, lime, and sriracha. Unlike traditional chicken salads, this dish incorporates vibrant veggies, aromatic herbs, and a creamy dressing that transports your taste buds straight to Thailand!

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prep the salad ingredients and dressing separately. The salad will stay fresh in the fridge for a couple of days. Just add the dressing right before serving to keep everything crisp and flavorful!

What can I substitute for peanut butter if I have allergies?

If you’re avoiding peanuts, almond butter or sunflower seed butter works beautifully! Both alternatives will give you that creamy texture while adding a nutty flavor.

Can I add more vegetables to this salad?

Definitely! This Thai Chicken Salad is versatile. Consider adding bell peppers, cucumbers, snap peas, or whatever veggies you have on hand. Get creative and customize it to your family’s liking!

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this Thai Chicken Salad is gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free soy sauce. It’s a deliciously light option for those with gluten sensitivities.

Final Thoughts

This Thai Chicken Salad has a way of brightening my week, transforming chaotic dinner times into something special. The crunch of fresh veggies, the juicy chicken, and that creamy peanut dressing are a trio I can’t resist. It’s not just food, but a comforting hug on a busy day. With each bite, I can feel the love I’ve poured into creating it. Whether it’s a family dinner or a quick lunch, this salad never fails to please. Trust me, once you make it, you’ll find yourself reaching for this recipe time and time again!