This colorful Asian Chicken Cranberry Salad mixes tender chicken with crunchy veggies and sweet cranberries. It’s fresh, tasty, and perfect for lunch or dinner!
I love how the sweet cranberries give a fun twist to the classic salad. It’s great for using up leftover chicken and feels like a treat! 🌼
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Chicken: Shredded chicken breast is perfect for this salad. You can also use rotisserie chicken for ease. If you want a vegetarian option, consider using chickpeas or tofu instead for that protein boost.
Cabbage: Green cabbage gives a nice crunch, but feel free to substitute with napa cabbage or even romaine lettuce for a different texture. Just make sure whatever you use is crisp!
Dried Cranberries: For a sweeter twist, you can swap dried cranberries with raisins or dried cherries. If you prefer less sweetness, try unsweetened coconut flakes instead.
Sesame Dressing: While a store-bought dressing saves time, homemade is easy! Combine soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and a touch of honey or maple syrup for a tasty alternative. Make it your own!
How Do I Make Sure My Salad is Well-Mixed?
Mixing the ingredients properly is key for a great salad, as you want every bite to be balanced. Start by placing all your ingredients in a large mixing bowl. Then, drizzle the sesame dressing over the top.
- Use a large spoon or salad tongs to gently toss everything together. This ensures that the dressing coats all the veggies and chicken evenly.
- Take your time while mixing to prevent crushing the delicate ingredients, like mandarin oranges.
- Finally, give a taste before serving! Adjust the salt, pepper, or more dressing as needed for your preferred flavor.
How to Make Asian Chicken Cranberry Salad?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
- 4 cups shredded green cabbage
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1 cup sliced almonds
- 1 cup dried cranberries
- 1 can (11 oz) mandarin oranges, drained
- 1/2 cup green onions, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
For the Dressing and Garnish:
- 1/4 cup sesame dressing (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds (for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 30 minutes to chill in the refrigerator. Perfect for a quick meal or as a side dish at your next gathering!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Salad Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, add the shredded chicken, green cabbage, shredded carrots, sliced almonds, dried cranberries, mandarin oranges, green onions, and chopped cilantro (if using). Use a big spoon to mix everything together gently, so you don’t squish the mandarin oranges.
2. Add the Dressing:
Drizzle the sesame dressing over the salad mixture. Toss everything together carefully until all the ingredients are nicely coated with the dressing. This is where the flavors start to blend!
3. Season to Taste:
Sprinkle salt and pepper over the salad to enhance the flavors. Adjust the amounts based on your preference. Give it another gentle toss to distribute the seasoning evenly.
4. Garnish and Chill:
Transfer the salad to a serving dish and sprinkle the sesame seeds on top for a lovely garnish. Cover the dish with plastic wrap or a lid and chill it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Once chilled, your salad is ready to be enjoyed! Serve it cold as a refreshing dish on its own or as a vibrant side salad at your next meal. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Rotisserie Chicken Instead of Cooked Chicken Breast?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and adds wonderful flavor. Just shred or chop the rotisserie chicken and use it in the same amount as you would cooked chicken breast. It will add a hint of smokiness to your salad!
How Long Can I Store This Salad in the Fridge?
This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that the cabbage may become slightly wilted, so if you prefer a crunchier texture, consider adding the dressing just before serving.
What Can I Use Instead of Mandarin Oranges?
If you don’t have mandarin oranges on hand, feel free to substitute them with fresh orange segments, canned peach slices, or even pineapple for a tropical twist! Just make sure to drain any canned fruit to avoid excess moisture in the salad.
Can I Make This Salad in Advance?
You can definitely prepare the salad a few hours ahead of time! Just store it in the fridge without the dressing to keep everything crisp. When you’re ready to serve, add the dressing, toss well, and garnish with sesame seeds for the best results!
