Prepare to embark on a culinary journey that will tantalize your taste buds and revolutionize your salad experience! This Crunchy Thai Chicken Salad is not just another boring health dish - it's a flavor explosion that combines the vibrant essence of Thai cuisine with a satisfying crunch that will make your mouth water. In just 35 minutes, you'll create a restaurant-worthy meal that's both nutritious and absolutely irresistible, perfect for those looking to spice up their meal routine with minimal effort and maximum taste.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Thai
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
- 4 cups mixed greens
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1 cup red cabbage, shredded
- 1/2 cup chopped cilantro
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds
- 1/4 cup Thai peanut dressing
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken by shredding pre-cooked chicken breasts or using rotisserie chicken. Ensure the chicken is cooled and finely shredded into bite-sized pieces.
- Wash and thoroughly dry the mixed greens using a salad spinner or clean kitchen towel to remove excess moisture.
- Shred the carrots using a box grater or food processor, creating thin and uniform strips for even distribution in the salad.
- Thinly slice the red cabbage using a sharp knife, creating delicate and crisp cabbage ribbons.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, mixed greens, carrots, and red cabbage. Gently toss the ingredients to create an even mixture.
- Chop fresh cilantro leaves, discarding the stems, and sprinkle over the salad mixture.
- Toast the sliced almonds in a dry skillet over medium heat until golden brown and fragrant, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
- Drizzle the Thai peanut dressing over the salad and toss gently to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated.
- Sprinkle the toasted almonds on top of the salad for added crunch and texture.
- Serve immediately to maintain the salad's crisp texture and vibrant flavors. Can be garnished with additional cilantro leaves if desired.
Tips
- Use rotisserie chicken for a time-saving hack that ensures tender, flavorful meat.
- Pat your greens completely dry to prevent a soggy salad - a salad spinner is your best friend here!
- Toast the almonds slowly and watch carefully to achieve that perfect golden color without burning.
- For extra flavor, try warming the Thai peanut dressing slightly before drizzling over the salad.
- Prepare ingredients ahead of time and assemble just before serving to maintain maximum crispness.
- Experiment with additional toppings like crispy wontons or fresh mint for added complexity.
- For a low-carb version, increase the greens and reduce the dressing quantity.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 313kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 85mg
