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Crunchy Thai Chicken Salad with Peanut Dressing Recipe

Crunchy Thai Chicken Salad with Peanut Dressing Recipe
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★★★★★

5.1 from 27 reviews

This Crunchy Thai Chicken Salad with Peanut Dressing is a vibrant and refreshing dish combining tender, juicy chicken breasts with crisp vegetables and fresh herbs. The creamy, tangy peanut dressing enriched with lime juice and soy sauce perfectly complements the crunchy texture of bell peppers, carrots, and cucumbers, bringing a burst of flavors inspired by Thai cuisine. Ideal for a light lunch or dinner, this salad is both nutritious and easy to prepare.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

  • 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tbsp oil (for cooking)

Vegetables & Herbs

  • 1 cup bell peppers (thinly sliced)
  • 1 cup carrots (julienned)
  • 1 cup cucumbers (diced)
  • ½ cup cilantro (chopped)
  • ½ cup mint (chopped)

Peanut Dressing

  • ½ cup unsweetened peanut butter
  • ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce
  • Juice of 2 limes
  • 1 tbsp honey (optional)
  • Water as needed for dressing consistency

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat, then cook the chicken breasts for about 6 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Remove from heat and allow the chicken to rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing.
  2. Chop the Vegetables: While the chicken rests, thinly slice the bell peppers, julienne the carrots, and dice the cucumbers. Chop the cilantro and mint and set all aside.
  3. Make the Peanut Dressing: In a bowl, combine the unsweetened peanut butter, low-sodium soy sauce, lime juice, and honey if using. Whisk together until the dressing is smooth. Add water a tablespoon at a time until you reach a pourable consistency suitable for drizzling over the salad.
  4. Assemble the Salad: Slice the rested chicken into strips or cubes. In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces, sliced bell peppers, carrots, cucumbers, cilantro, and mint. Toss everything together gently to combine.
  5. Add the Dressing: Drizzle the peanut dressing over the salad mixture and toss gently again to coat all the ingredients evenly with the dressing.
  6. Serve or Chill: Serve the salad immediately for the best texture and flavor, or cover and chill it in the refrigerator for up to 2 hours to let the flavors meld before serving.

Notes

  • Use low-sodium soy sauce to keep sodium levels in check.
  • Honey is optional and can be omitted or replaced with a sugar substitute for a less sweet dressing.
  • For a spicier kick, add a pinch of chili flakes or a dash of sriracha to the dressing.
  • This salad can be made ahead; store dressed salad separately to maintain crunchiness if preferred.
  • Serve on a bed of mixed greens for an extra boost of veggies.

Nutrition

Keywords: Thai chicken salad, peanut dressing, healthy salad, crunchy salad, easy Thai recipe

Find it online: https://lucabites.com/crunchy-thai-chicken-salad-with-peanut-dressing-recipe/