This Easy Thai Chicken Salad is a fresh and colorful dish full of veggies, tender chicken, and a creamy peanut dressing that you’ll want to drizzle on everything!
Honestly, the dressing is so yummy; you might just eat it by the spoonful! I love how quick it is to prepare. Perfect for busy nights or a light lunch that feels fancy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Chicken: I love using shredded rotisserie chicken because it’s tasty and saves time. If you’re vegetarian or want an alternative, try chickpeas or tofu for a protein boost.
Coleslaw Mix: This mix gives crunch and color. If you can’t find it, use thinly sliced cabbage and carrots. Adding ingredients like sliced cucumbers or snap peas can also work beautifully!
Peanut Butter: Creamy peanut butter is key for the dressing’s texture. If you need a nut-free option, sun butter or tahini can be great substitutes. Just note that the flavor will change slightly.
Lime Juice: Fresh lime juice brightens the salad. If limes are not available, lemon juice is a good stand-in. It adds a different zing but still works well!
How Do You Make Creamy Peanut Dressing Perfectly?
Whipping up a smooth and tasty peanut dressing can feel tricky, but it’s easy! Here’s how to do it right:
- Start with creamy peanut butter in a bowl. Add soy sauce, sesame oil, honey, lime juice, garlic, and ginger if you’re using it.
- Mix everything until you have a smooth paste. The lime juice helps thin the mixture.
- To adjust the consistency, slowly add water one tablespoon at a time until it reaches your desired creaminess.
- Taste it! Adjust with more lime juice, honey, or heat as you like. This is all about your personal taste!
With these tips, you’ll have a delicious dressing you can use for many salads or as a dipping sauce, too!
Easy Thai Chicken Salad with Creamy Peanut Dressing
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
- 4 cups coleslaw mix (shredded green cabbage, red cabbage, and carrots)
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 2 green onions, sliced
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
- 1/3 cup chopped roasted peanuts (plus extra for garnish)
For the Creamy Peanut Dressing:
- 1/3 cup creamy peanut butter
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
- 1-2 tablespoons lime juice (about half lime)
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger (optional)
- 2-4 tablespoons water (to thin dressing as needed)
- Pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha (optional for heat)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare and can be served immediately or chilled for 30 minutes for better flavor melding. Super quick and refreshing!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Salad Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded cooked chicken, coleslaw mix, diced red bell pepper, sliced green onions, chopped cilantro (if you like it), and the chopped roasted peanuts. Give it a good mix to combine all these colorful ingredients!
2. Make the Creamy Peanut Dressing:
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the creamy peanut butter, soy sauce, sesame oil, honey, lime juice, minced garlic, and grated ginger until you have a smooth and creamy mixture. Need it a little thinner? Just add water, a tablespoon at a time, until it’s your preferred consistency!
3. Mix and Season:
Give the dressing a taste. If you want it zestier, squeeze in more lime juice. If you like it sweeter, add a bit more honey. Like a little kick? Toss in some red pepper flakes or sriracha. Mix until it’s just right!
4. Combine Everything:
Pour that delicious dressing over your chicken and veggie mixture. Toss everything gently, making sure each part is nicely coated in the dressing.
5. Garnish and Serve:
Sprinkle some extra chopped peanuts and green onions on top for a nice finishing touch. You can serve it right away or let it chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes to let all those flavors mingle.
Enjoy this fresh, crunchy, and creamy Thai-inspired chicken salad as a light lunch or dinner! It’s a delightful bowl of goodness!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Leftover or Rotisserie Chicken for This Salad?
Absolutely! Using leftover or rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and adds wonderful flavor. Just make sure it’s shredded or chopped into bite-sized pieces before mixing it in.
What if I Don’t Have Peanut Butter?
If you’re out of peanut butter or need a nut-free option, you can substitute it with sun butter or tahini. Just keep in mind that the flavor will differ slightly, but it will still be delicious!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. If you have extra dressing, keep it separate to prevent the salad from getting soggy. When ready to eat, simply toss again!
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes! This salad can be made a few hours in advance. Just wait to add the dressing until you’re ready to serve to keep the vegetables crunchy and fresh.
