If you’re in the mood for something vibrant, refreshing, and packed with diverse textures, this Crunchy Asian Fusion Chicken Salad is your go-to recipe. This dish is a perfect medley of sweet, savory, and crunchy elements, making it a fantastic choice for a quick lunch, a fulfilling dinner, or even as a standout dish at your next outdoor gathering. Here’s how to whip up this delightful salad in just 15 minutes!
Ingredients:
- 2 small bags of coleslaw mix (about 12 cups)
- 4 cups rotisserie chicken, finely chopped
- 1 ½ cups toasted sliced almonds or cashews
- 1 ½ cups dried cranberries (Orange Cranberries from Trader Joe’s preferred)
- ¾ cup red onion, finely diced
- 1 cup sesame sticks (optional)
- 1 ½ cups chopped cilantro
- 1-2 small cans mandarin oranges, drained
- ¼ cup black sesame seeds or regular sesame seeds
- 1 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- ½ cup balsamic vinegar (white or regular)
- 4 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
- 3-4 cloves garlic, chopped
- 4 tablespoons honey or brown sugar
- 4 tablespoons minced ginger
- 2 teaspoons toasted sesame oil
Directions:
- Layer the Salad: In a large bowl, layer the coleslaw mix, chopped chicken, almonds or cashews, cranberries, red onion, sesame seeds, sesame sticks (if using), and cilantro. Finish with the drained mandarin oranges on top for a burst of citrus flavor.
- Prepare the Dressing: Combine the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, soy sauce, garlic, honey or brown sugar, ginger, and sesame oil in a blender. Add 3 tablespoons of water (or use mandarin syrup for a fruity twist) and blend until smooth.
- Dress and Toss: Drizzle the dressing over the salad mixture, adjusting the amount to your preference. Gently toss to mix all the ingredients thoroughly, ensuring every bite is flavorful.
- Serve: Serve the salad immediately, or let it sit for a while to absorb the flavors more deeply. If storing, keep any leftover dressing separately in the fridge.
Additional Tips:
- Texture Tip: For added crunch, ensure the nuts and sesame sticks are added just before serving to maintain their crispiness.
- Flavor Boost: Consider adding a splash of lime juice or a sprinkle of chili flakes for an extra zing and a touch of heat.
- Storage: This salad keeps well in the fridge, making it an excellent option for meal prep. Just add the dressing before serving to keep everything fresh.
Nutritional Highlights:
- Servings: 8
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
This Crunchy Asian Fusion Chicken Salad is not only a feast for the taste buds but also a colorful and nutritious addition to any meal. Whether you’re hosting a party, needing a quick dinner solution, or packing a picnic, this salad is sure to impress with its delightful mix of flavors and textures. Enjoy this easy, delicious, and healthful recipe that’s bound to become a new favorite!
