Delicious Thai Chicken Salad with fresh vegetables and herbs

Thai Chicken Salad

ByCasey Monroe

Why Make This Recipe

Thai Chicken Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish that combines tender chicken with a mix of crunchy vegetables and a creamy dressing. It’s perfect for a light lunch or dinner, and it’s easy to prepare. This salad is packed with flavors and textures, making it both satisfying and healthy. The combination of fresh ingredients and a delicious dressing elevates this dish, making it a great choice for any occasion.

How to Make Thai Chicken Salad

Ingredients:

  • 4 cups shredded chicken
  • 4 cups green cabbage (shredded)
  • 1 cup red cabbage (shredded)
  • 1 red bell pepper (diced)
  • 1 cup carrots (julienned)
  • 11 oz can mandarin oranges (drained)
  • 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
  • ½ cup green onions
  • ¼ cup cilantro (roughly chopped)
  • ½ cup honey roasted peanuts
  • ⅓ cup slivered almonds
  • Optional toppings: Chow Mein noodles, crispy wonton strips, toasted sesame seeds

Directions:

  1. Prepare the dressing by blending peanut butter, soy sauce, chicken broth, lime juice, honey, sriracha, garlic powder, sesame oil, and ground ginger until smooth. Chill until ready to use.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken, green cabbage, red cabbage, diced red bell pepper, julienned carrots, mandarin oranges, green onions, cilantro, honey roasted peanuts, and slivered almonds. Toss gently.
  3. When ready to serve, add the chilled dressing gradually and toss until the salad is evenly coated.

How to Serve Thai Chicken Salad

Serve the Thai Chicken Salad in a large bowl or on individual plates. It can be enjoyed on its own or paired with additional toppings like Chow Mein noodles, crispy wonton strips, or toasted sesame seeds for extra crunch. This salad is best served cold, making it a refreshing option for warm days or gatherings.

How to Store Thai Chicken Salad

If you have leftovers, store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Keep the dressing separate until you are ready to eat to prevent the salad from becoming soggy. The salad can be kept for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. When ready to enjoy, simply add the dressing and toss again.

Tips to Make Thai Chicken Salad

  • Use leftover rotisserie chicken for a quicker preparation time.
  • Feel free to adjust the amount of sriracha to suit your spice preference.
  • Adding fresh herbs like mint or basil can enhance the flavor.
  • For a vegan version, substitute chicken with tofu and use a plant-based dressing.

Variation

You can easily customize this salad by adding or swapping ingredients. Consider adding cucumbers, snap peas, or avocado for additional freshness. You may also use different nuts, such as cashews or walnuts, for a unique twist.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different protein instead of chicken?
Yes, you can use shredded turkey, tofu, or even shrimp if you prefer.

2. Is there a way to make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the regular soy sauce with gluten-free soy sauce or tamari.

3. How can I add more crunch to the salad?
Adding crispy wonton strips, Chow Mein noodles, or even more nuts can give your salad an extra crunch.