Thai Chicken Salad Recipe with Peanut Dressing Recipe
If you’re craving a dish that bursts with vibrant flavors and textures, this Thai Chicken Salad Recipe with Peanut Dressing is exactly what you need. It’s a refreshing blend of tender shredded chicken, crunchy coleslaw mix, colorful veggies, and a rich, creamy peanut dressing that ties everything together beautifully. Each bite offers a perfect balance of savory, tangy, and slightly sweet notes, making it a perfect choice for a light lunch or a lively dinner. Once you try this Thai Chicken Salad Recipe with Peanut Dressing, it’s going to become one of your favorite go-to dishes that’s as satisfying as it is simple to whip up.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This dish shines because of its straightforward, fresh ingredients that each bring something special to the table. From the crunch of the coleslaw mix to the creamy peanut dressing and fresh herbs, these components combine to create a symphony of flavors and textures that’s truly unforgettable.
- 1 lb coleslaw mix: This mix offers a perfect crunchy base with cabbage and carrots for freshness and texture.
- 3 cups shredded cooked chicken: Tender and protein-packed to keep the salad hearty and satisfying.
- 1/4 cup scallions (chopped): Adds a mild onion flavor to brighten the salad.
- 1 red bell pepper (chopped): For a pop of sweetness and vibrant color that lifts the whole dish.
- 1/2 cup chopped peanuts: Offers a delightful crunch and nutty richness.
- Small handful fresh cilantro (chopped, optional but recommended): Gives a fresh, citrusy note that’s classic in Thai cuisine.
- Small handful fresh basil (sliced thin or torn, optional): Adds herbal sweetness and depth.
- Salt & pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and balancing all the flavors.
- 5 tbsp creamy peanut butter: The star ingredient in the dressing providing creamy texture and rich flavor.
- 3 tbsp water or more as needed: Thins the peanut dressing to a perfect consistency.
- 2 tbsp soy sauce: Brings a salty umami depth to the dressing.
- 1 tbsp lime juice: Adds bright acidity that cuts through the richness.
- 1 tbsp honey: Balances the tanginess with subtle sweetness.
- 1/2 tsp pure sesame oil: Provides a toasty aroma and complexity.
- 1 tsp fresh ginger (grated): Adds warmth and a zingy kick.
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder: A hint of savory depth without overpowering the dressing.
How to Make Thai Chicken Salad Recipe with Peanut Dressing
Step 1: Make the Dressing
Start by whisking together the creamy peanut butter, water, soy sauce, lime juice, honey, sesame oil, freshly grated ginger, and garlic powder in a bowl. Whisk until completely smooth and creamy, adjusting the consistency with a little more water or lime juice if it feels too thick. This dressing is the heart of the salad and packs an incredible punch of flavor, so tasting and tweaking it a bit here ensures it’s just right.
Step 2: Prepare the Salad Ingredients
While the dressing rests, chop the scallions, red bell pepper, and fresh herbs. Toss these vibrant ingredients into a large bowl along with the coleslaw mix and shredded chicken. The combination of veggies and chicken creates a lovely texture contrast that makes each bite exciting and fresh. Fresh herbs like cilantro and basil aren’t mandatory but seriously elevate the salad’s overall flavor.
Step 3: Combine the Salad and Dressing
Pour the luscious peanut dressing over the prepared salad mixture. Toss everything together gently but thoroughly until every piece is coated evenly with that irresistible sauce. This step is where all the flavors start to meld, so be generous with the tossing to get that perfect balance. Finally, season the salad with salt and pepper to your liking for that perfect savory finish.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
Divide the salad into bowls or onto plates. Top with extra chopped peanuts and fresh herbs if you like, which not only add a beautiful garnish but also enhance the overall texture and flavor. This salad is best enjoyed immediately to savor the crisp veggies and creamy dressing at their freshest. Just trust me, once you try this Thai Chicken Salad Recipe with Peanut Dressing, you’ll want to make it again and again!
How to Serve Thai Chicken Salad Recipe with Peanut Dressing
Garnishes
Fresh chopped peanuts and herbs like cilantro or basil are ideal garnishes for this salad. Peanuts bring a satisfying crunch, while the herbs add bursts of freshness and color. Sometimes, a thin slice of red chili can add a nice visual pop and a hint of heat for those who like it a little spicy. These simple additions elevate the salad from great to unforgettable.
Side Dishes
This Thai Chicken Salad pairs beautifully with light, complementary sides such as jasmine rice or sticky rice to soak up any extra dressing. For a low-carb option, steamed or grilled vegetables like asparagus or snap peas provide a clean balance. You could also serve it alongside fresh spring rolls or a mild coconut soup to complete a Thai-inspired meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Feeling playful? Try serving this salad inside crisp lettuce cups for a fun handheld option perfect for parties. Alternatively, layering it in clear glass jars for meal prep adds a colorful presentation and keeps everything fresh until you’re ready to toss. Wrapping the salad in rice paper for a fresh roll is another creative twist, turning this salad into a portable delight.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can store leftover Thai Chicken Salad Recipe with Peanut Dressing in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To keep the salad crisp, it’s best to store the dressing separately and toss just before serving. If it’s already mixed, the coleslaw mix may soften, but the flavors will deepen wonderfully.
Freezing
This salad doesn’t freeze well because the fresh vegetables will become waterlogged and lose their crisp texture. If you want to freeze components, cook and freeze the chicken separately, then prepare fresh salad and dressing when ready to eat.
Reheating
Since the salad is served cold or at room temperature, reheating isn’t necessary. If you prefer a warm element, gently warm leftover chicken and add it to freshly tossed salad and dressing. Avoid microwaving the whole salad to keep those fresh textures intact.
FAQs
Can I use peanut butter powder instead of creamy peanut butter?
Yes, you can use peanut butter powder mixed with a bit of oil or water to create the dressing. Just adjust the liquid until you get a creamy consistency similar to using creamy peanut butter.
Is it necessary to cook the chicken first?
Yes, cooked chicken is essential for this recipe. Using pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken speeds things up while ensuring the salad has protein and flavor. Avoid using raw chicken in the salad.
What if I am allergic to peanuts?
If you have a peanut allergy, try substituting with sunflower seed butter or tahini for a nutty, creamy dressing alternative. The flavor will differ but should still be delicious.
Can I prepare the salad vegan?
Absolutely! Replace chicken with tofu or tempeh, and make sure your soy sauce and honey substitutes (like maple syrup) are vegan-friendly. This way, you keep the essence of the Thai Chicken Salad Recipe with Peanut Dressing while fitting a plant-based diet.
How can I make the salad spicier?
Adding thinly sliced fresh chili peppers or a dash of chili flakes to the dressing will give the salad a nice kick without overpowering the other flavors. You can start mild and increase spice to your preference.
Final Thoughts
This Thai Chicken Salad Recipe with Peanut Dressing is one of those gems that makes you feel like you’re enjoying something truly special, even on a busy weeknight. It’s fresh, vibrant, and packed with a delightful mix of textures and flavors that never get old. Whether you’re sharing it with family, taking it to a picnic, or simply treating yourself to a tasty meal, this salad is a winner every time. Give it a try and watch it become a staple in your kitchen rotation.
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Thai Chicken Salad Recipe with Peanut Dressing Recipe
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A vibrant and refreshing Thai Chicken Salad featuring a crunchy coleslaw mix, shredded chicken, and colorful vegetables, all tossed in a creamy, tangy peanut dressing with fresh herbs for an authentic Southeast Asian flavor.
Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- 1 lb coleslaw mix
- 3 cups shredded cooked chicken
- 1/4 cup scallions, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1/2 cup chopped peanuts
- Small handful fresh cilantro, chopped (optional but recommended)
- Small handful fresh basil, sliced thin or torn (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Peanut Dressing
- 5 tbsp creamy peanut butter
- 3 tbsp water or more as needed
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1/2 tsp pure sesame oil
- 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
Instructions
- Make the Dressing: In a bowl, whisk together the peanut butter, water, soy sauce, lime juice, honey, sesame oil, grated fresh ginger, and garlic powder until smooth. Adjust the taste and consistency as needed by adding more lime juice or water for a thinner dressing.
- Prep the Salad: Chop the scallions, red bell pepper, and fresh herbs (cilantro and basil). In a large bowl, combine these with the coleslaw mix and shredded cooked chicken.
- Combine: Pour the peanut dressing over the salad and toss everything together thoroughly until well coated. Season with salt and freshly ground pepper to your taste.
- Serve: Divide the salad into serving bowls. Garnish with extra chopped peanuts and fresh herbs if desired, and enjoy immediately for the freshest flavors and best texture.
Notes
- Use freshly cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- Adjust the amount of honey and lime juice in the dressing to balance sweetness and acidity.
- The salad is best consumed immediately to maintain the crunchiness of the coleslaw mix.
- For a spicier kick, add a dash of chili flakes or sriracha to the dressing.
- Peanut allergy alternative: substitute peanut butter with sunflower seed butter, but note the flavor change.
- This salad can be refrigerated for up to a day but may lose some crispness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes (assuming pre-cooked chicken)
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-cook, Tossed Salad
- Cuisine: Thai
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 salad bowl (approx. 1/4 of recipe)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: Thai chicken salad, peanut dressing, coleslaw mix salad, easy Thai recipe, healthy chicken salad, peanut butter dressing
