This Thai Chicken Salad is a colorful mix of fresh veggies and tender chicken, all topped with a creamy peanut dressing. It’s crunchy, zesty, and packed with flavor!
Honestly, I could eat this salad every day. The peanut dressing is so good, it might just beat your favorite dip! Quick to make, it’s the perfect meal for busy days.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Chicken: Shredded rotisserie chicken works great for this recipe because it’s flavorful and saves time. If you’re going for a lighter option, grilled chicken breast is also excellent. You can even use tofu for a vegetarian twist!
Cabbage: Green and red cabbage add crunch and color. If you can’t find red cabbage, you can substitute it with more green cabbage or even shredded kale. They all bring nice texture to the salad.
Peanut Butter: For the dressing, use smooth peanut butter for a creamy texture. If you have a nut allergy, sunflower seed butter is a tasty alternative. Just make sure to taste it to balance out the sweetness.
Soy Sauce: Low-sodium soy sauce is my go-to to control salt levels. You can also try tamari for a gluten-free option or coconut aminos for a slightly sweeter flavor.
How Do You Make the Perfect Peanut Dressing?
Making the peanut dressing is simple, but there are some tips to get it just right. The key is to whisk all the ingredients until smooth, ensuring everything combines evenly.
- Start by mixing the peanut butter and soy sauce; they blend best when combined first.
- Add honey (or maple syrup) and mix well. This adds sweetness to balance the savory flavors.
- Incorporate rice vinegar and lime juice for acidity — they brighten the dressing remarkably!
- Finish with sesame oil for a nutty note, and add water one tablespoon at a time until you reach the desired consistency.
Just remember: you can always adjust flavors to your taste—add more lime juice for tang or honey for sweetness. Enjoy your salad with a dressing that’s fully customized to your liking!
How to Make Thai Chicken Salad With Peanut Dressing
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 4 cups green cabbage, shredded
- 1 cup red cabbage, shredded
- 1 cup carrots, shredded
- 1 bell pepper (red or yellow), diced
- 1/2 cup green onions, chopped
- 1/2 cup roasted peanuts, chopped
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Peanut Dressing:
- 1/4 cup peanut butter
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1-2 tablespoons water (to thin the dressing, if needed)
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 15 minutes to prepare the salad and dressing, plus an additional 30 minutes of chilling time in the refrigerator. In total, that’s just 45 minutes before you can dive into this fresh and tasty salad!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Salad Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, add the shredded chicken, green cabbage, red cabbage, shredded carrots, diced bell pepper, chopped green onions, and chopped peanuts. Give everything a gentle toss to combine all those colorful ingredients together.
2. Make the Peanut Dressing:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the peanut butter, soy sauce, honey (or maple syrup), rice vinegar, lime juice, sesame oil, and water. Keep whisking until the mixture is smooth and creamy. If the dressing is too thick for your liking, just add a little more water to get it to the perfect consistency.
3. Combine and Season:
Pour the peanut dressing over the salad mixture in the large bowl. Toss everything together until all the veggies and chicken are coated nicely with the dressing. Then, season with salt and pepper to taste. If you want, fold in the chopped cilantro for a burst of flavor!
4. Chill Before Serving:
Cover the salad with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time will allow all the flavors to blend beautifully. Once ready, serve the salad chilled and enjoy your delicious Thai Chicken Salad!
Can I Use Leftover Rotisserie Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken works great and can save you time. Just shred the chicken from the bones, and it’s ready to go. Make sure to remove the skin for a healthier option!
What Can I Substitute for Peanut Butter in the Dressing?
If you need a substitute for peanut butter, try using almond butter or sunflower seed butter. Both options will give a different flavor but still work well in the dressing. For a nut-free option, sunflower seed butter is a great choice!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Be aware that the vegetables may lose some crunch over time, so it’s best enjoyed fresh. If needed, you can add a little more dressing before serving to perk it up!
Can I Add More Vegetables to the Salad?
Definitely! Feel free to add more veggies like cucumber, snap peas, or shredded broccoli for extra crunch and nutrition. Just make sure to keep the balance of flavors in mind, adjusting the dressing accordingly if needed!
