Chopped Thai Crunch Chicken Salad

Chopped Thai Crunch Chicken Salad is a vibrant, texture-packed dish featuring crisp veggies, tender chicken, crunchy peanuts, and a bold, tangy peanut dressing. This refreshing salad brings together sweet, salty, spicy, and sour Thai-inspired flavors in a satisfying and healthy meal perfect for lunch, meal prep, or light dinners.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This salad is loaded with texture and flavor in every bite. The combination of colorful veggies, juicy chicken, and a creamy yet zesty peanut dressing makes it feel indulgent while still being nutrient-rich. It’s customizable, easy to make ahead, and keeps well for days. Whether you’re looking for a hearty salad or a light main course, this one delivers on all fronts.

ingredients

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

For the Salad:

• Cooked chicken breast (shredded or chopped)
• Napa cabbage or green cabbage (thinly sliced)
• Red cabbage (thinly sliced)
• Carrots (julienned or shredded)
• Red bell pepper (thinly sliced)
• Cucumber (sliced or julienned)
• Scallions (sliced)
• Cilantro (chopped)
• Roasted peanuts (chopped)
• Optional: edamame, crispy wonton strips, sesame seeds

For the Thai Peanut Dressing:

• Creamy peanut butter
• Soy sauce or tamari
• Rice vinegar
• Honey or maple syrup
• Sesame oil
• Lime juice
• Fresh garlic (minced)
• Fresh ginger (grated)
• Water (to thin)

directions

this recipe

1. Make the Dressing:
   In a bowl, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, sesame oil, lime juice, garlic, and ginger. Add water a little at a time until smooth and pourable.
2. Prep the Salad Ingredients:
   In a large bowl, combine cabbage, carrots, bell pepper, cucumber, scallions, and cilantro.
3. Add Chicken and Toss:
   Add the cooked chicken to the bowl and pour over the dressing. Toss everything until well coated.
4. Top and Serve:
   Garnish with chopped peanuts and any optional toppings. Serve immediately or chill for 30 minutes to let flavors meld.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes approximately 4 servings.
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time (if needed for chicken): 10–15 minutes
Total time: 25–35 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian: Use tofu or chickpeas instead of chicken.
• Spicy Kick: Add sriracha or red chili flakes to the dressing.
• Low-Carb: Replace carrots and bell peppers with more leafy greens.
• Fruit Twist: Add mango or pineapple for sweetness.
• Nut-Free: Use sunflower seed butter and omit peanuts.

storage/reheating

Store undressed salad and dressing separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Once dressed, the salad is best enjoyed within 1–2 days.
The dressing can be made ahead and stored for up to a week. Shake or stir before using.

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Yes, rotisserie chicken is a convenient and flavorful option that saves time.

What’s the best cabbage for this salad?

A mix of Napa and red cabbage gives great texture and color, but green cabbage also works well.

Is this salad served cold?

Yes, it’s best served cold or at room temperature.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, prep all ingredients and keep the dressing separate until ready to serve.

Can I use another nut butter?

Yes, almond butter or cashew butter can be substituted for peanut butter in the dressing.

How do I thin the dressing without losing flavor?

Use warm water to thin, and taste as you go—add a splash of lime juice or soy sauce if needed.

What kind of peanuts should I use?

Dry roasted, unsalted or lightly salted peanuts work best. You can also use chopped cashews.

Is this salad gluten-free?

Use tamari instead of soy sauce to make it gluten-free.

Can I make this dressing spicy?

Yes! Add a bit of Thai chili paste, sriracha, or red pepper flakes to taste.

What protein alternatives can I use?

Grilled shrimp, tofu, tempeh, or even seared steak are great alternatives to chicken.

Conclusion

Chopped Thai Crunch Chicken Salad is a fresh, flavor-packed dish that combines bold Thai-inspired ingredients with the crunch of chopped vegetables and creamy peanut dressing. It’s easy to make, perfect for meal prep, and endlessly customizable. Whether you’re looking for a satisfying lunch or a vibrant dinner, this salad brings the crunch, color, and craveable flavor every time.

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