This Easy Asian Chicken Cranberry Salad is a tasty mix of juicy chicken, crunchy veggies, and sweet cranberries. It’s fresh, colorful, and great for lunch or dinner!
It’s like a party in a bowl! I love how the sweet and savory flavors come together. Plus, it takes hardly any time to toss together—perfect for busy days!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Chicken: Shredded chicken breast is the star here. You can use leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken for ease. If you’re vegetarian, try chickpeas or tofu instead for a protein boost.
Shredded Cabbage: A mix of green and purple cabbage gives a nice color and crunch. If you can’t find cabbage, shredded kale or even salad greens can work in a pinch.
Dried Cranberries: These add sweetness to the salad. If you don’t have cranberries, consider using raisins or chopped dried apricots as alternatives.
Mandarin Oranges: Fresh is best, but canned mandarins work too. If they’re not available, slices of fresh orange or even pineapple chunks will add a nice sweet-tart balance.
Slivered Almonds: These give a great crunch. You can substitute chopped walnuts or pecans if you prefer. For nut allergies, sunflower seeds are a great alternative!
How Do I Make Sure My Salad Stays Fresh?
Keeping your salad fresh is all about timing and assembly. Here’s how to do it:
- Mix sturdy ingredients like cabbage and carrots first, then add the softer items like mandarin oranges and cranberries just before serving.
- To avoid sogginess, dress the salad right before you eat. Store any leftover dressing separately!
- Chill your salad to let flavors meld but be mindful of over-marinating; otherwise, the vegetables could lose their crunch.
By following these tips, you’ll enjoy a fresh and crisp salad every time! Enjoy your meal!
Easy Asian Chicken Cranberry Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 3 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
- 3 cups shredded cabbage (green or a mix of green and purple)
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1/2 cup mandarin orange segments (canned or fresh)
- 1/3 cup dried cranberries
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds or chopped pecans
- 1/4 cup chopped red onion
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
- 1 tablespoon poppy seeds
For the Dressing:
- 1/3 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus an additional 30 minutes to chill in the fridge. In total, you’ll spend about 45 minutes to get it ready and enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Salad Ingredients:
In a large bowl, mix together the shredded chicken, shredded cabbage, shredded carrots, mandarin orange segments, dried cranberries, sliced almonds, chopped red onion, and cilantro if you’re using it. Stir everything gently to combine.
2. Make the Dressing:
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, honey, rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, and add a pinch of salt and pepper. Continue whisking until the dressing is smooth and nicely blended.
3. Dress the Salad:
Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients. Gently toss everything together with a large spoon or salad tongs until all the ingredients are well coated with the dressing.
4. Add the Finishing Touches:
Sprinkle the poppy seeds on top of the salad and give it a light toss to distribute them evenly throughout.
5. Chill and Serve:
Cover the salad and place it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. When you’re ready to eat, simply serve it chilled as a delightful main dish or a side salad.
Enjoy Your Delicious Salad!
This Easy Asian Chicken Cranberry Salad is a satisfying mix of sweet, savory, and crunchy textures. With vibrant colors and a refreshing taste, it’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy your meal!
FAQ for Easy Asian Chicken Cranberry Salad
Can I Use Leftover Chicken?
Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken or any cooked chicken will work perfectly for this recipe. Just shred it into bite-sized pieces and you’re ready to go!
What Can I Substitute for Mayonnaise?
If you’re looking for a lighter option or a dairy-free alternative, you can use Greek yogurt or a vegan mayonnaise. Both will still provide a creamy texture and delicious flavor for the dressing.
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftover salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, to keep the cabbage crunchy, it’s best to eat it within 24 hours.
Can I Add More Veggies?
Definitely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, or cucumbers for extra crunch and nutrition. Just remember to cut them into small pieces for even distribution in the salad!
