Thai Chicken Salad

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll love this Thai Chicken Salad for several reasons. It’s incredibly easy to make, with simple ingredients that pack a punch. The combination of grilled chicken, crunchy veggies, and an irresistible peanut dressing offers a delightful balance of flavors, from savory and salty to tangy and sweet. Plus, it’s versatile, so you can add or substitute ingredients based on your preference or what you have in your pantry. This salad is not only delicious but also healthy, making it a great option for those who want something light yet satisfying.

Ingredients

• 2 chicken breasts, grilled and sliced

• 1 cup shredded cabbage (green or purple)

• 1 cup shredded carrots

• 1 cucumber, julienned

• 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced

• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

• 1/4 cup chopped green onions

• 1/4 cup roasted peanuts, chopped

• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional)

• 1/4 cup fresh lime juice

• 2 tablespoons fish sauce

• 1 tablespoon soy sauce

• 1 tablespoon honey

• 2 tablespoons peanut butter

• 1 small garlic clove, minced

• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar

• 1 tablespoon sesame oil

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Start by grilling the chicken breasts until they’re cooked through and juicy. Once done, slice them thinly.

2. In a large bowl, combine the shredded cabbage, shredded carrots, cucumber, red bell pepper, cilantro, and green onions.

3. In a separate small bowl, whisk together lime juice, fish sauce, soy sauce, honey, peanut butter, minced garlic, rice vinegar, and sesame oil until smooth. This will be your peanut dressing.

4. Pour the peanut dressing over the salad ingredients and toss until everything is well-coated.

5. Top the salad with the sliced chicken, roasted peanuts, and sesame seeds for added crunch and flavor.

6. Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to enjoy.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 10 minutes

• Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Grilled Shrimp: Swap out the chicken for grilled shrimp for a seafood twist.

• Vegetarian Option: Omit the chicken and add more tofu or tempeh for a protein-rich vegetarian version.

• Add Spiciness: For those who like it spicy, add a sliced chili pepper to the salad or a dash of sriracha to the dressing.

• Extra Veggies: Feel free to add additional veggies such as edamame, snap peas, or avocado for more variety.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: The salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep the dressing separate if you plan to store leftovers to maintain the crunchiness of the veggies.

• Reheating: This salad is best served cold. Reheat the grilled chicken in a pan if needed, but avoid reheating the entire salad as it may wilt.

FAQs

How do I make this salad spicier?

To make the salad spicier, add some sliced fresh chili peppers or a drizzle of sriracha sauce in the dressing.

Can I prepare the salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time, but it’s best to dress the salad just before serving to keep the veggies fresh and crunchy.

Can I substitute the peanut butter in the dressing?

Yes, you can use almond butter or sunflower seed butter as an alternative if you have peanut allergies.

Can I make this salad without cilantro?

If you’re not a fan of cilantro, you can substitute it with fresh basil or mint for a similar fresh herb flavor.

Can I use cooked chicken leftovers?

Yes, cooked chicken leftovers work perfectly in this salad. Just make sure to slice it thinly before adding it to the salad.

What can I use instead of fish sauce?

You can use soy sauce or coconut aminos as a fish sauce substitute if you prefer a vegetarian or vegan option.

How do I make this salad more filling?

To make this salad more filling, you can serve it with a side of rice or noodles, or add more protein like tofu, grilled shrimp, or hard-boiled eggs.

Can I add fruit to this salad?

Yes, fruit like mango or pineapple can be a great addition for a sweet contrast to the savory flavors of the salad.

Can I make the peanut dressing ahead of time?

Yes, the peanut dressing can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.

Can I use other vegetables?

Absolutely! You can add any vegetables you like, such as bell peppers, avocado, or even cabbage for extra crunch.

Conclusion

This Thai Chicken Salad is a wonderfully vibrant and delicious meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With fresh, crisp vegetables, tender chicken, and a tangy peanut dressing, it’s a dish that’s sure to satisfy your cravings. Whether you’re making it for a quick lunch or a light dinner, this salad is guaranteed to be a hit. Plus, with its versatility, you can customize it to your taste. Enjoy!