This Thai Chicken Salad is a colorful and tasty dish! It features grilled chicken, crunchy veggies, and a creamy peanut dressing that ties it all together.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shredded Chicken: Use rotisserie chicken for ease, or grill your own. If you need a vegetarian option, tofu or chickpeas are great alternatives. They add protein and texture.
Coleslaw Mix: Though a mix of cabbage and carrots is standard here, you can use any crunchy vegetables. Try adding sliced cucumbers or snap peas for a twist.
Red Bell Pepper: This adds sweetness and color. If you can’t find it, any bell pepper works, or even shredded carrots can substitute for the crunch.
Peanut Butter: For nut allergies, sunflower seed butter or tahini are excellent replacements. They maintain a creamy texture and delicious flavor.
How Do I Make the Dressing Creamy and Delicious?
The dressing is key to making this salad shine. It’s important to whisk the ingredients well to achieve a smooth texture. If you notice it’s too thick, adding warm water gradually helps thin it out.
- Start with the peanut butter, then add soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, lime juice, ginger, and garlic.
- Whisk everything together until smooth. For creamier dressing, keep adding warm water, just a bit at a time.
- Feeling adventurous? Toss in some crushed garlic or extra lime juice for a zesty note!
This dressing can also be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Just give it a stir or shake before using!
Easy Thai Chicken Salad With Creamy Peanut Dressing
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie or grilled)
- 3 cups coleslaw mix (shredded cabbage and carrots)
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 3 green onions, chopped
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
- 1/3 cup chopped roasted peanuts
For the Creamy Peanut Dressing:
- 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 2-3 tablespoons warm water (to thin dressing as needed)
- Pinch of red pepper flakes or a few drops of sriracha (optional for heat)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare, so it’s perfect for a quick meal. If you prefer to let the flavors meld, you might want to chill it for 15-30 minutes before serving. Altogether, you’ll spend 30-45 minutes to make and enjoy this delicious dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Salad Ingredients:
In a medium bowl, combine the shredded chicken, coleslaw mix, diced red bell pepper, chopped green onions, and the optional cilantro if you’re using it. Gently toss these ingredients together to mix everything well. This colorful blend is going to look fantastic!
2. Make the Creamy Peanut Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the creamy peanut butter, soy sauce, honey or maple syrup, rice vinegar, lime juice, grated ginger, and minced garlic. As you mix, gradually add warm water, one tablespoon at a time, until you achieve a smooth and pourable dressing. If you like a little heat, feel free to add red pepper flakes or sriracha according to your taste!
3. Combine Salad and Dressing:
Pour the creamy peanut dressing over the salad mixture and use tongs or a large spoon to toss everything together until it’s well coated. You want all those delicious ingredients to be drenched in that tasty dressing!
4. Add the Crunch Factor:
Sprinkle the chopped roasted peanuts over the top of the salad for an extra crunch. They’ll add texture and a nice nutty flavor that complements everything beautifully.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your Thai chicken salad immediately, or if you have time, let it chill in the fridge for 15-30 minutes—this helps the flavors blend even better. Enjoy this delightful salad as a light lunch, dinner, or a refreshing side dish with warm tortillas or rice noodles to make it even heartier!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Other Proteins Instead of Chicken?
Absolutely! This recipe works well with grilled shrimp, tofu, or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option. Just ensure whatever protein you choose is cooked and seasoned to your liking.
How Do I Store Leftover Salad?
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep the dressing separate if possible to maintain the salad’s crunchiness. Just mix it again before serving!
What Can I Substitute for Peanut Butter?
If you have a nut allergy or prefer a different flavor, sunflower seed butter or tahini are great alternatives that keep the dressing creamy and delicious. Adjust the quantity as needed to reach your desired taste and consistency!
Can I Make the Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the salad ingredients in advance and keep them in the fridge. Just wait to add the dressing until you’re ready to serve to keep everything fresh and crunchy!
