Peanut Chicken Crunch Salad Recipe
Introduction
This Peanut Chicken Crunch Salad is a delightful mix of tender chicken, crunchy cabbage, and roasted peanuts, all tossed in a flavorful peanut dressing. It’s a quick, satisfying dish perfect for a light lunch or dinner.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or chopped
- 3 cups shredded cabbage
- ½ cup roasted peanuts, roughly chopped
- ½ cup peanut dressing
Instructions
- Step 1: In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, shredded cabbage, and chopped peanuts.
- Step 2: Pour the peanut dressing over the salad ingredients and toss well to coat everything evenly.
Tips & Variations
- For extra crunch, add sliced bell peppers or shredded carrots.
- Use grilled or rotisserie chicken for added flavor and convenience.
- Substitute the peanut dressing with a tangy sesame dressing for a different twist.
- Toast peanuts lightly to enhance their flavor before adding.
Storage
Store leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep the dressing separate if possible to maintain crunchiness, then toss again before serving. Reheat is not recommended for this salad as it’s best enjoyed fresh and cool.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make this salad vegetarian?
Yes, simply omit the chicken and add extra vegetables or tofu to keep it hearty.
What can I use if I don’t have peanut dressing?
You can make a quick dressing by mixing peanut butter, soy sauce, lime juice, honey, and a bit of water to thin it out, or use any creamy Asian-style dressing you prefer.
PrintPeanut Chicken Crunch Salad Recipe
A refreshing and crunchy Peanut Chicken Crunch Salad that combines tender chicken, crisp cabbage, and crunchy peanuts, all tossed in a flavorful peanut dressing for a perfect balance of textures and flavors.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes (for cooking chicken if starting from raw)
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 3 cups cabbage, finely shredded
- 1/2 cup roasted peanuts, chopped
Peanut Dressing
- 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons water (to thin dressing as needed)
- 1 small garlic clove, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the salad ingredients: Ensure the chicken is cooked, shredded or diced into bite-sized pieces. Finely shred the cabbage using a sharp knife or a mandoline to get thin, crisp strips. Chop the roasted peanuts coarsely to add crunch.
- Make the peanut dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together creamy peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, sesame oil, minced garlic, and grated fresh ginger until smooth. Add water gradually to reach the desired dressing consistency for easy tossing.
- Assemble the salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, shredded cabbage, and chopped peanuts. Pour the peanut dressing over the mixture.
- Toss the salad: Gently toss all ingredients until they are evenly coated with the peanut dressing and well mixed to combine flavors.
- Serve: Transfer the salad to serving bowls or plates and enjoy immediately for maximum crunch and freshness.
Notes
- This salad is best served fresh to maintain the crispness of the cabbage and peanuts.
- For a vegetarian version, substitute chicken with firm tofu or extra crunchy vegetables like carrots and bell peppers.
- Adjust the dressing thickness by adding more water for a lighter consistency or less for a thicker coating.
- To make it gluten-free, use tamari instead of soy sauce.
- You can add a squeeze of lime juice for extra brightness.
Keywords: Peanut Chicken Salad, Crunchy Salad, Peanut Dressing Salad, Healthy Chicken Salad, Easy Lunch Salad
