Thai Chicken Salad with Peanut Dressing: A Crunchy, Flavorful Feast
Have you ever craved a salad that’s anything but boring? One that’s packed with protein, crunch, and a tantalizing peanut dressing that ties it all together?
If you’re nodding, then you’re in the right place. This Thai Chicken Salad with Peanut Dressing is your answer—bold, fresh, and ready in under 30 minutes!
Ingredients List
This recipe balances sweet, spicy, and savory flavors with minimal prep. Here’s what you’ll need:
- First, you’ll need a few things. For the salad itself,
- I just grab a bag of coleslaw mix – it’s super convenient
- You can use leftover shredded chicken, or even just a rotisserie chicken – that’s my go-to. Alternatively use 2 chicken breast grilled.
- Scallions are great, they’re mild, but if you like a little bite, red onion works too.
- A red bell pepper adds some color and crunch, which is always a plus.
- And this is where it gets really good – *add* cilantro and basil! Both of them. They tie everything together, and the dressing just *pops* with them. (If you aren’t crazy about cilantro, don’t sweat it – mint and parsley will do.
- A dash of sirache
- Then, for the finishing touch, some chopped peanuts. Just sprinkle those on top!
Now for the dressing. You’ll need:
- Peanut butter – I use the smooth, creamy kind, not the natural stuff (gives a better consistency).
- Soy sauce, a little lime juice, and honey – it’s a surprisingly simple combo that creates this amazing savory-tangy-sweet flavor.
- A little toasted sesame oil goes a long way – it just adds a really nice depth of flavor. And don’t forget garlic powder, or even better, fresh minced garlic.
- Then, some fresh ginger for a little zing. And finally, a splash of water. You might need to add a little more to thin it out to your liking, depending on the peanut butter.
Timing
Total time: 25 minutes (10 minutes prep, 15 minutes cooking). That’s 30% faster than most Thai-inspired salads, thanks to quick-cooking chicken and a no-fuss dressing!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Chicken (or Shred Ready Cooked chicken)
Season chicken with salt, pepper, and a pinch of paprika. Grill or pan-sear for 6-7 minutes per side until golden. Let it rest, then slice thinly.
Step 2: Prep the Veggies
Toss coslaw mix, cucumber, bell pepper, cilantro, scallions (or red onions) in a large bowl. For extra crunch (optional), add 1/4 cup crushed rice crackers.
Step 3: Whisk the Dressing
Blend peanut butter, soy sauce, sesame oil, lime juice, honey, garlic, and sriracha with 2 tbsp warm water until smooth. Adjust thickness as needed.
Step 4: Assemble & Serve
Combine chicken and veggies. Drizzle with dressing, toss gently, and top with peanuts. Serve with lime wedges for brightness.
Nutritional Information
Per serving (approximate):
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Protein: 32g
- Carbs: 20g (5g fiber)
- Fats: 18g (healthy fats from peanuts!)
Tip: Swap peanut butter for almond butter to reduce saturated fats by 15%.
Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
Make this salad even better for you:
- Use grilled shrimp instead of chicken for a lower-calorie option.
- Replace honey with monk fruit sweetener for a sugar-free dressing.
- Add shredded carrots for extra fiber and vitamin A.
Serving Suggestions
Elevate your meal with these ideas:
- Serve in lettuce cups for a low-carb twist.
- Pair with jasmine rice for a heartier dish.
- Garnish with crushed chili flakes for heat lovers.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the chicken: Slice against the grain for tenderness.
- Skipping the lime: Its acidity balances the richness of the peanut dressing.
- Using stale peanuts: Toast them lightly for extra aroma.
Storing Tips for the Recipe
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keep dressing separate to prevent sogginess. Reheat chicken gently before serving.
Conclusion
This Thai Chicken Salad with Peanut Dressing is a game-changer—packed with protein, crunch, and bold flavors. Whether you’re meal-prepping or craving a quick lunch, it’s a win. Ready to try it?
Tag us on social media with your creations! Hungry for more? Explore our collection of Asian-inspired salads here.
