Name: Thai Chicken Salad
Prep time: PT-486251H29M25S
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: PT-486251H29M25S
Cuisine: Thai
Ingredients: 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon pepper; 1 tablespoon soy sauce; 1 tablespoon lime juice; 1 tablespoon honey; 1 tablespoon fish sauce; 1 garlic clove, minced; 1 teaspoon grated ginger; 1 cup shredded cabbage; 1 cup shredded carrots; 1 cucumber, thinly sliced; 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced; 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped; 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves; 1/4 cup chopped peanuts (optional)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Thai Chicken Salad is a refreshing and vibrant dish that combines fresh ingredients with bold flavors. It’s a perfect balance of crunchy veggies, tender chicken, and a tangy dressing that will leave your taste buds dancing. The salad is light yet filling, making it a great option for a healthy lunch, dinner, or even as a side dish for a larger meal. The mix of herbs, spices, and textures is sure to keep you coming back for more!

Ingredients

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon pepper
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon lime juice
1 tablespoon honey
1 tablespoon fish sauce
1 garlic clove, minced
1 teaspoon grated ginger
1 cup shredded cabbage
1 cup shredded carrots
1 cucumber, thinly sliced
1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
1/4 cup chopped peanuts (optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Start by cooking the chicken breasts. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken with salt and pepper, then cook for 6-7 minutes on each side until fully cooked and golden brown. Remove from heat and allow the chicken to rest before slicing into thin strips.
In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, lime juice, honey, fish sauce, minced garlic, and grated ginger to make the dressing.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded cabbage, carrots, cucumber, bell pepper, cilantro, and mint. Toss to combine.
Add the sliced chicken to the salad and pour the dressing over the top. Toss everything together until evenly coated.
If desired, top with chopped peanuts for an extra crunch.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves 4 people. It takes approximately 20-25 minutes to prepare and cook the chicken.

Variations

Spicy Thai Chicken Salad: Add sliced red chilies or a dash of chili flakes to the dressing to give it an extra kick.
Vegetarian Option: Replace the chicken with tofu or tempeh for a plant-based version.
Rice Noodles: Add cooked rice noodles to the salad for a more filling meal.
Peanut Butter Dressing: If you prefer a creamier dressing, whisk in a tablespoon of peanut butter to the sauce for a richer flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Store the salad components separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The salad itself can last for up to 2-3 days. However, it’s best to store the dressing separately to keep the vegetables fresh. Reheat the chicken before adding it back into the salad, or enjoy it cold for a refreshing dish.

FAQs

1. Can I use pre-cooked chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use leftover cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken for a quicker option.

2. Can I make the dressing ahead of time?

Absolutely! The dressing can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

3. Is there a substitute for fish sauce?

If you prefer a vegetarian version, you can substitute the fish sauce with soy sauce or coconut aminos.

4. Can I use other vegetables in the salad?

Yes, feel free to add or substitute other vegetables like snap peas, radishes, or shredded zucchini.

5. How do I make the salad gluten-free?

Make sure to use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari to replace regular soy sauce.

6. Can I add more protein to the salad?

You can easily add shrimp, beef, or tofu if you prefer a higher-protein meal.

7. What can I use instead of honey?

You can use agave syrup or maple syrup if you’re looking for a different sweetener.

8. Can I prepare the salad in advance?

You can prep the vegetables and chicken in advance, but it’s best to combine everything with the dressing just before serving to keep the ingredients fresh.

9. Can I make this salad spicy?

Yes! You can add fresh chili peppers or chili paste to the dressing or sprinkle chili flakes on top.

10. Is this recipe good for meal prep?

Yes, this salad makes a great meal prep option. Just keep the dressing separate and toss it in when you’re ready to eat.

Conclusion

This Thai Chicken Salad is a delightful mix of fresh vegetables, tender chicken, and a deliciously tangy dressing. It’s a versatile dish that can be customized to your preferences, whether you’re looking for something spicy, vegetarian, or packed with more protein. Perfect for meal prep or a light, healthy dinner, this salad is sure to become a go-to in your recipe rotation.

Thai Chicken Salad