Thai Chicken Salad : A Crunchy, Flavorful, and Healthy Dish

If you’re looking for a fresh, vibrant, and healthy meal, this Thai Chicken Salad is the perfect choice! It’s packed with crunchy vegetables, tender chicken, and a flavorful peanut dressing that ties everything together beautifully. This salad is a delightful mix of textures and tastes—savory, sweet, tangy, and slightly spicy, making every bite an explosion of flavors.

The best part? This dish is quick and easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights or meal prep. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch, healthy dinner, or even a party dish, this Thai Chicken Salad won’t disappoint. It’s naturally gluten-free and can easily be adjusted to suit dietary preferences.

Why You Will Love Making This Recipe

Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes—perfect for busy days.
Healthy and Nutritious: Loaded with lean protein, fresh veggies, and healthy fats.
Incredible Flavor: The peanut dressing adds a rich, tangy, and slightly spicy taste.
Meal Prep Friendly: Stays fresh in the fridge for days.
Customizable: Adjust the spice level or swap ingredients to your liking.

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Ingredients:

2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
2 cups shredded cabbage (red and green)
1 cup shredded carrots
1/2 cup red bell pepper, thinly sliced
1/2 cup chopped cilantro
1/4 cup chopped green onions
1/3 cup chopped peanuts
1/4 cup peanut butter
2 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp honey
1 tbsp rice vinegar
1 tsp sesame oil
1/2 tsp grated ginger
1/2 tsp sriracha (optional)
Juice of 1 lime

Equipment Used:

Large mixing bowl
Small whisking bowl
Measuring cups and spoons
Knife and cutting board

Directions & Instructions

Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, ginger, lime juice, and sriracha (if using). Set aside.
Mix the Salad: In a large bowl, combine shredded chicken, cabbage, carrots, bell pepper, cilantro, and green onions.
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Toss with Dressing: Pour the peanut dressing over the salad and toss until everything is well coated.
Garnish & Serve: Top with chopped peanuts and an extra squeeze of lime before serving.
Enjoy: Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 3 days.

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Nutritional Information

Each serving contains approximately:

Calories: 320
Protein: 28g
Carbohydrates: 15g
Fats: 18g
Fiber: 5g

This salad is a great source of lean protein, healthy fats, and fiber. It keeps you feeling full and energized without being heavy.

Prep Time and Cook Time:

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations:

Make It Vegan: Use tofu or chickpeas instead of chicken.
Make It Spicier: Add extra sriracha or red pepper flakes.
Swap the Dressing: Try almond butter instead of peanut butter.
Add More Crunch: Mix in crispy wonton strips or toasted sesame seeds.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I make this salad ahead of time?
A: Yes! Store it in an airtight container for up to 3 days, but add the dressing just before serving.

Q: What can I use instead of peanut butter?
A: Almond butter, cashew butter, or tahini are great substitutes.

Q: Can I use rotisserie chicken?
A: Absolutely! It’s a great time-saver and adds extra flavor.

Q: Is this salad keto-friendly?
A: Yes! Just swap honey for a keto-friendly sweetener.

Pro Tips By Lyndy:

Use Fresh Ingredients: The fresher the veggies, the better the crunch and taste.
Massage the Cabbage: Helps break down the fibers and makes the salad softer.
Chill Before Serving: Enhances the flavors for a refreshing bite.
Double the Dressing: Store extra dressing in the fridge for other salads.

Serving Suggestions:

As a Light Meal: Enjoy as-is for a refreshing, healthy dish.
With Rice or Noodles: Serve over jasmine rice or rice noodles for a heartier meal.
In a Wrap: Use as a filling for a lettuce wrap or tortilla.
As a Side Dish: Pairs well with grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu.