Thai Chicken Salad Recipe with Peanut Dressing – Looking for a quick and flavorful meal? That satisfies your craving. For something light yet filling? This Thai Chicken Salad Recipe with Peanut Dressing. Is the perfect solution. Combining the crunch of coleslaw mix and red bell peppers. With the rich, creamy peanut dressing. This salad is a harmony of textures. And tastes. Ready in just 20 minutes. It’s an ideal choice for a healthy lunch. Or a light dinner.
The first time I made this Thai Chicken Salad. Was on a busy weeknight. When I needed something quick, delicious, and satisfying. My husband loves Thai food. So I thought this would be a great way. To enjoy those flavors at home. When I served it. His face lit up. And even our little one. Who’s usually picky with veggies. Couldn’t resist the colorful, crunchy bites. It’s now a staple in our household. And every time I make it. It brings back that warm, comforting memory.
What makes this Thai Chicken Salad Recipe with Peanut Dressing truly stands out?
This Thai Chicken Salad stands out. For its combination of freshness. And richness. The coleslaw mix and bell peppers. Provide a satisfying crunch. While the peanut dressing. Offers a creamy, savory punch. That ties everything together. The use of fresh herbs like cilantro and basil. Elevates the dish with bright, aromatic flavors. Making each bite. A delightful experience. Plus, it’s a versatile recipe. You can easily adjust the dressing’s consistency. And flavors. To suit your taste.
What You Need To Make This Thai Chicken Salad Recipe with Peanut Dressing Recipe?
Coleslaw Mix: A convenient base for the salad. Bringing a mix of crunchy veggies. Without the extra prep time.
Shredded Cooked Chicken: A great way to use up leftover chicken. Or a store-bought rotisserie. It adds protein. And makes the salad hearty.
Scallions: These give a mild onion flavor. That’s not overpowering. But adds a nice sharpness. To balance the richness of the dressing.
Red Bell Pepper: Adds a pop of color. And a sweet crunch. That pairs perfectly with the savory peanut dressing.
Chopped Peanuts: The peanuts give an extra crunch. And echo the flavor of the peanut dressing. Making the salad feel complete.
Fresh Cilantro and Basil: Optional but highly recommended. For their fresh, aromatic qualities. They add an authentic Thai touch.
Peanut Butter: The star of the dressing. Creamy peanut butter creates a luscious, rich base. Depending on the brand. You may need to adjust the water. To get the perfect consistency.
Sesame Oil: Just a little goes a long way. Adding a toasty, nutty depth to the dressing.
Fresh Ginger and Garlic Powder: These bring warmth. And a slight zing. Rounding out the dressing’s flavors.
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Steps To Make Thai Chicken Salad Recipe with Peanut Dressing:
Step 1: Make the Dressing: In a medium bowl, whisk together all the dressing ingredients. Until smooth. Taste and tweak as needed. Maybe a bit more lime juice. For tang or honey for sweetness. If your dressing turns out too thick. Simply thin it with extra water. Adding gradually. Until it reaches your desired consistency.
Step 2: Prep the Salad: While the dressing rests. Get all your salad components ready. Chop the scallions, bell pepper, and herbs. Then, toss them into a large bowl. With the coleslaw mix. And shredded chicken.
Step 3: Combine: Pour the peanut dressing over the salad, tossing everything together. Until it’s all well coated. Taste, then season with salt and pepper as needed.
Step 4: Serve: Divide into bowls. And enjoy immediately. While everything is fresh and crunchy.
Tip:
To elevate the flavors in this Thai Chicken Salad Recipe with Peanut Dressing. Try roasting your peanuts. Before chopping them. The roasting process brings out a deeper, nuttier flavor. That complements the peanut dressing beautifully. Also, if you’re using leftover chicken. Warm it slightly. Before tossing it into the salad. The warmth will help the chicken absorb the dressing better. Making every bite more flavorful. Lastly, don’t skip the fresh herbs. Cilantro and basil. Add an authentic Thai touch that takes this salad. To the next level.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes. You can prepare the salad ingredients. And dressing separately. And store them in the fridge. Toss them together just before serving. To keep everything crisp.
What can I use instead of peanut butter for the dressing?
If you’re allergic to peanuts. Or want a variation. Try almond butter or sunflower seed butter. Both will give you a creamy texture. With a different but equally delicious flavor.
Can I add other vegetables to this salad?
Absolutely! Feel free to add whatever veggies you have on hand. Like shredded carrots, cucumber slices, or even some chopped kale. For extra nutrition and crunch.
<Remember it later>
Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!
<Remember it later>
Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!
Thai Chicken Salad Recipe with Peanut Dressing
Ingredients
- 1 lb coleslaw mix
- 3 c shredded cooked chicken
- 1/4 c scallions chopped
- 1 red bell pepper chopped
- 1/2 c chopped peanuts
- Small handful fresh cilantro chopped (optional but recommended)
- Small handful fresh basil sliced thin or torn (optional)
- Salt & pepper to taste
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, ginger, and garlic powder. Until smooth. Adjust the taste and consistency as needed. With more lime juice or water.
- Prep the Salad: Chop the scallions, bell pepper, and herbs. Toss them into a large bowl. With the coleslaw mix. And shredded chicken.
- Combine: Pour the dressing over the salad. And toss everything together. Until well coated. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve: Divide into bowls. Garnish with extra peanuts and herbs if desired. And enjoy immediately.
Notes
I’m Bitty, owner of nodashofgluten.com, where I share simple, delicious recipes for all tastes, including gluten-free. Check out my “About Me” page for more info!
