This Asian Chopped Chicken Salad is colorful and packed with fresh veggies, tender chicken, and crunchy peanuts. The peanut dressing adds a tasty twist that ties everything together!
I love how this salad feels like a little party in a bowl. It’s great for lunch or dinner, and it’s super easy to make—just chop, mix, and enjoy! Plus, who doesn’t love peanuts? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Chicken: Shredded rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver! If you have leftover chicken or even turkey, that works too. For a vegetarian option, try using tofu or chickpeas instead.
Cabbage: Green cabbage adds crunch and freshness. You can substitute napa cabbage or even kale if you prefer. Just make sure to slice it thinly for the best texture.
Peanuts: I love the crunch of unsalted peanuts. If you have nut allergies, try sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for a similar texture without the nuts.
Peanut Butter: Natural peanut butter gives the dressing a rich flavor. If you’re looking for a nut-free alternative, sunflower seed butter is a fantastic choice.
Honey or Maple Syrup: Either sweetener adds a touch of sweetness to the dressing. For a vegan option, stick with maple syrup; or use agave syrup if that’s what you have on hand!
How Do I Make Sure My Dressing is Perfectly Smooth?
A common issue with homemade dressings is getting them smooth and well-combined. Here’s how to whip together a great peanut dressing:
- Start with the peanut butter in a bowl. Adding it first makes it easier to mix.
- Whisk in the liquid ingredients like lime juice, soy sauce, and rice vinegar one at a time, blending well after each.
- If it feels too thick, add warm water, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.
- For extra flavor, make sure to mince the garlic finely or even use garlic powder for an easier mix.
With these tips, you’ll have a tasty and creamy dressing in no time!
How to Make Asian Chopped Chicken Salad With Peanut Dressing
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 4 cups green cabbage, finely sliced
- 1 cup carrots, grated
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup green onions, chopped
- 1/2 cup cilantro, chopped
- 1/2 cup unsalted peanuts, coarsely chopped
- 1/4 cup sesame seeds (optional)
For the Peanut Dressing:
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons peanut butter
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
Preparing this salad takes about 15 minutes, and if you choose to refrigerate it for a while, add an extra 30 minutes to let the flavors come together. So, you can serve this refreshing dish in about 45 minutes total!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Salad Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the freshly shredded chicken, finely sliced green cabbage, grated carrots, thinly sliced red bell pepper, chopped green onions, cilantro, and coarsely chopped peanuts. Mix everything together gently but thoroughly, so the ingredients are well combined.
2. Make the Peanut Dressing:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the lime juice, soy sauce, rice vinegar, peanut butter, honey (or maple syrup), sesame oil, minced garlic, and ground ginger. Keep whisking until the dressing is smooth and creamy. If it seems too thick, just add a tablespoon of warm water to get it to your desired consistency.
3. Combine and Season:
Pour the peanut dressing over the salad mixture in the large bowl. Toss everything together carefully until each piece is well coated with the dressing. Taste the salad and add salt and pepper as needed. If you chose to use sesame seeds, sprinkle them on top for added crunch and a beautiful finish.
4. Serve and Enjoy:
Your Asian Chopped Chicken Salad is ready to be served! You can eat it right away or, for even better flavor, cover it and let it chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. Enjoy this colorful and nutritious salad!
Can I Use Rotisserie Chicken Instead of Cooked Chicken?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and adds flavor to the salad. Just make sure to remove the skin and shred the meat before mixing it with the other salad ingredients.
What Can I Substitute for Honey or Maple Syrup?
If you’re looking for a different sweetener, agave nectar or coconut sugar are excellent alternatives. For a low-sugar option, you can also use stevia or monk fruit sweetener. Just adjust the quantity to taste, as these can be sweeter than honey.
How to Store Leftover Salad?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep the dressing separate if you can, to prevent the cabbage from getting too soggy. Just combine them right before eating!
Can I Add Other Vegetables or Ingredients?
Sure! You can customize this salad with additional vegetables like cucumber, radishes, or snap peas for extra crunch. You could also add crispy fried noodles, tofu, or edamame for added protein and texture!
