This colorful salad mixes tender chicken with crunchy veggies and tart cranberries, creating a tasty balance. Topped with a yummy sesame dressing, it’s a delight for your taste buds!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Shredded cooked chicken is key here. I often use rotisserie chicken for ease; it’s already cooked and adds great flavor. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use shredded tofu for a vegetarian choice.
Coleslaw mix: This pre-packed mix includes cabbage and carrots, making it super convenient. If you want a crunchier texture, feel free to add other veggies like bell peppers or snap peas.
Mandarin oranges: These add a sweet, juicy pop. If they’re not in season, you could substitute with fresh orange segments or chopped apple for a different sweetness.
Cranberries: Dried cranberries give a tangy bite. If you’re after something less sweet, dried cherries or raisins work well too. Fresh cranberries would be too tart and need cooking first.
Almonds: Sliced almonds add crunch, but if you have nut allergies, you can swap them with pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds for a similar texture.
How Do I Make Sure My Salad Is Well-Mixed and Flavorful?
Mixing the salad dressing properly is essential! Here’s how to do it so you get a smooth blend:
- Use a whisk or fork to mix the dressing in a small bowl. This helps incorporate air and combines all ingredients effectively.
- Add the dressing gradually to the salad. Pour a little at a time and toss gently to ensure even coating. You can always add more if needed!
- Rest the salad in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This allows flavors to meld together and makes each bite delicious!
By following these steps, you’ll create a refreshing salad that’s packed with flavors and perfect for any meal!
Easy Asian Chicken Cranberry Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 3 cups shredded cooked chicken breast (rotisserie chicken works well)
- 4 cups coleslaw mix (shredded green cabbage and carrots)
- 1 cup canned mandarin orange segments, drained
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds
- 1/4 cup chopped red onion
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
- 1 tbsp poppy seeds
For the Dressing:
- 1/3 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp toasted sesame oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus at least 30 minutes of chilling time in the refrigerator. So, in total, plan for about 45 minutes before you’re ready to enjoy your refreshing meal.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Salad Ingredients:
In a large bowl, take your shredded cooked chicken and add the coleslaw mix, drained mandarin orange segments, dried cranberries, sliced almonds, chopped red onion, and chopped cilantro if you’re using it. Add the poppy seeds too! Gently mix everything together with a large spoon until well combined.
2. Make the Dressing:
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, rice vinegar, honey, soy sauce, toasted sesame oil, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Keep whisking until the dressing is smooth and well blended. Tasting it is a great step to ensure it has all the flavors you love!
3. Combine Dressing with Salad:
Now, pour your dressing over the salad mixture. Carefully toss everything together using a pair of salad tongs or two big spoons. You want to ensure that all the ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
4. Adjust Seasoning:
Give your salad a taste and see if it needs any extra salt or pepper. If you love a bit of sweetness, you can add a touch more honey, too!
5. Chill Before Serving:
Cover the bowl with a lid or plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This chill time helps all the flavors marry, making your salad even more delicious!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
When you’re ready to enjoy the salad, simply scoop it into bowls and serve it cold. It’s perfect for lunch, a light dinner, or even as a side dish at your next gathering. Enjoy this crunchy, flavorful dish!
FAQ for Easy Asian Chicken Cranberry Salad
Can I Use Other Proteins Instead of Chicken?
Absolutely! You can substitute shredded tofu or chickpeas for a vegetarian option. Alternatively, shrimp or sliced turkey would also work well for a different twist.
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just give it a good stir before serving again, as some ingredients may settle.
Can I Make the Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the salad and the dressing separately and combine them just before serving. This way, the salad stays crisp and fresh. If it’s already mixed, aim to eat it within 1-2 days for the best texture.
What If I Don’t Have Rice Vinegar?
No problem! You can substitute rice vinegar with apple cider vinegar or white vinegar. Just keep in mind that different vinegars have distinct flavors, so start with a little less and adjust to taste!
