Thai Chicken Salad With Peanut Dressing

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Chicken: Shredded rotisserie chicken is so convenient! If you want a different flavor, grilled or poached chicken works too. For a vegetarian option, try chickpeas or tofu instead.

Mixed Salad Greens: Use any greens you like! This can include kale, spinach, or romaine. If some greens are tough, like kale, you might want to massage them with olive oil to make them softer.

Peppers: Red and green bell peppers add color and crunch, but if they’re not available, try using cucumbers or snap peas for freshness. You can also swap in other colors of bell peppers if you’d like!

Peanuts: Chopped peanuts bring a nice crunch, but you can use sunflower seeds or almonds if you’re nut-free. Just be cautious of allergies, especially when serving to others!

Cilantro: This herb adds a fresh flavor, but if you’re not a fan, parsley is a great substitute. Other options like basil or mint can also bring a nice twist.

How Do I Make the Perfect Peanut Dressing?

The peanut dressing is simple but packed with flavor. Here’s how to get it just right:

• Start with creamy peanut butter for a smooth base. If you prefer a lighter version, you could try natural peanut butter.
• Whisk soy sauce with lime juice, honey (or maple syrup), and sesame oil. This combination gives your dressing a great balance between savory and sweet.
• If you want some heat, add sriracha. I usually start with one teaspoon and taste before adding more.
• To adjust the consistency, thin the dressing with water. Add a tablespoon at a time until it coats the salad perfectly. Remember, you want it to drizzle, not run!

How to Make Thai Chicken Salad With Peanut Dressing

Ingredients You’ll Need:

For the Salad:

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works well)
• 3 cups mixed salad greens (cabbage, carrots, red cabbage, etc.)
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 1/2 cup shredded carrots
• 1/4 cup green onions, sliced
• 1/2 cup peanuts, chopped (or to taste)
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)

For the Peanut Dressing:

• 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons lime juice (freshly squeezed)
• 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1-2 teaspoons sriracha (adjust based on heat preference)
• Water to thin (as needed)

How Much Time Will You Need?

You’ll need about 15 minutes of prep time for this delicious Thai Chicken Salad. It’s quick and simple, making it perfect for a healthy lunch or dinner. If you want the flavors to meld, you can refrigerate it for up to 30 minutes before serving.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the Salad Base:

Grab a large bowl and add the shredded chicken. Then, toss in the mixed salad greens, diced red and green bell peppers, shredded carrots, green onions, and chopped peanuts. Use your hands or a big spoon to gently combine everything. This colorful mix is the healthy base of your salad!

2. Make the Peanut Dressing:

In a separate small bowl, mix together the creamy peanut butter, soy sauce, lime juice, honey or maple syrup, sesame oil, and sriracha. Use a whisk to blend everything smoothly. If it feels too thick, don’t worry—just add a little water, one tablespoon at a time, until your dressing reaches the perfect pourable consistency.

3. Combine and Toss:

Now it’s time to bring everything together! Pour the peanut dressing over your salad mixture. Toss everything gently but thoroughly, ensuring each piece of chicken and vegetable is coated in that delicious dressing.

4. Add a Garnish (Optional):

If you like, sprinkle some chopped cilantro over your salad for a fresh touch. It’s optional, but it adds a lovely flavor!

5. Serve and Enjoy!

Your Thai Chicken Salad is ready to eat! You can serve it immediately, or if you want to enhance the flavors, pop it in the fridge for up to 30 minutes before serving. Enjoy your fresh and tasty salad!

Can I Substitute the Chicken for Another Protein?

Absolutely! You can use tofu for a vegetarian option, shrimp for seafood lovers, or even chickpeas for a plant-based choice. Just ensure that the protein you choose is cooked and seasoned to your liking before adding it to the salad.

How to Store Leftovers?

Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. However, keep the dressing separate from the salad to prevent the greens from wilting. When ready to eat, simply drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss to combine!

Can I Use Other Vegetables?

Definitely! Feel free to get creative with your veggies. Cucumbers, snow peas, or even cherry tomatoes can add a nice crunch and flavor. Just be sure to slice them thinly for easy mixing!

How to Make the Dressing Spicier or Milder?

If you prefer a spicier dressing, simply add more sriracha, a little at a time, until you reach your desired heat. For a milder version, reduce the amount of sriracha or omit it altogether, and you can add a bit more honey or maple syrup for a touch of sweetness.