This Easy Thai Chicken Salad is colorful and fresh, featuring tender chicken, crisp veggies, and a creamy peanut dressing. It’s a tasty way to enjoy something healthy!
Plus, who doesn’t love a good crunch? I always add extra peanuts on top because they make everything better. Give it a try for lunch, and you’ll be hooked!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Chicken: Shredded chicken breast is perfect for this salad. You could also use rotisserie chicken for added flavor and convenience. If you’re vegetarian, try chickpeas or tofu as a protein option.
Coleslaw Mix: The mix of green and purple cabbage with carrots gives a nice crunch and color. If you can’t find it, you can slice your own cabbage and carrots, or use mixed greens for a softer texture.
Peanut Butter: Creamy peanut butter adds richness. For a nut-free option, sunflower seed butter works well. If you’re counting calories, try using a reduced-fat peanut butter.
Fresh Herbs: Cilantro adds freshness, but if you’re not a fan, swap it for fresh mint or omit it entirely. Both will still taste great!
How Do You Make the Perfect Peanut Dressing?
The peanut dressing is key to bringing all the flavors together. Start by whisking together your creamy peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, lime juice, honey, sesame oil, grated ginger, and minced garlic. Aim for a smooth consistency!
- To thin the dressing, gradually add warm water, mixing as you go. This ensures it’s pourable but still creamy.
- For a bit of heat, mix in some red pepper flakes or a few drops of sriracha. Adjust according to your taste!
Making the dressing can be fun, and a great way to adjust flavors to your liking. Just taste as you go for the best results!
Easy Thai Chicken Salad With Peanut Dressing
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 3 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or chopped
- 3 cups coleslaw mix (shredded green and purple cabbage, shredded carrots)
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 3 green onions, sliced
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
- 1/3 cup roasted peanuts, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
For the Peanut Dressing:
- 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon lime juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1-2 teaspoons grated fresh ginger
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 2-4 tablespoons warm water (to thin the dressing as needed)
- A pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha (optional for heat)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare. If you decide to chill it for about 30 minutes before serving, it will be even tastier!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Salad Ingredients:
In a large salad bowl, combine the shredded chicken, coleslaw mix, diced red bell pepper, sliced green onions, and chopped cilantro if you’re using it. This blend of fresh ingredients will create a colorful and appetizing salad!
2. Make the Peanut Dressing:
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, lime juice, honey, sesame oil, grated ginger, and minced garlic until smooth. Gradually add warm water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dressing is creamy but pourable. Don’t forget to taste it; you might want to adjust some ingredients!
3. Spice It Up (Optional):
If you enjoy a bit of heat, mix in some red pepper flakes or a drop of sriracha. Stir until well combined!
4. Combine Salad and Dressing:
Pour the peanut dressing over your salad mixture. Toss everything together gently but thoroughly so that the dressing coats all the ingredients.
5. Garnish with Peanuts:
Just before serving, sprinkle the chopped roasted peanuts on top for that extra crunch. This makes the salad even more delightful!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the salad immediately for the freshest taste, or refrigerate it for about 30 minutes to let the flavors meld together. Enjoy your vibrant and tasty Thai Chicken Salad as a light lunch or dinner, and consider pairing it with some steamed jasmine rice or wrapping it in lettuce leaves for a fun twist!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the salad and the peanut dressing separately ahead of time! Combine the salad ingredients without the dressing and store it in the fridge for up to a day. When ready to serve, drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss just before eating.
What Can I Substitute for Chicken?
If you prefer a vegetarian dish, you can substitute the chicken with chickpeas, tofu, or edamame. Each option provides a good amount of protein and will still taste delicious in this salad!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. If the salad becomes too soggy from the dressing, you can add a little extra coleslaw mix or fresh veggies before serving it again to refresh its texture.
Can I Adjust the Spiciness of the Dressing?
Absolutely! You can control the heat level in the dressing by adjusting the amount of red pepper flakes or sriracha. Start with a small amount, taste, and add more gradually until you reach your preferred spice level!
