Why Make This Recipe
Asian Chicken Cranberry Salad is a delightful dish that combines flavors and textures. It’s loaded with protein from the chicken and packed with nutrients from the fresh cabbage. The sweetness of dried cranberries adds a nice contrast to the savory elements, making it a tasty and healthy option. Plus, it’s easy to prepare and great for quick meals or gatherings.
How to Make Asian Chicken Cranberry Salad
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 2 cups cabbage, shredded
- 1 cup dried cranberries
- 1/4 cup sesame dressing
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds (optional)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
- In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cabbage, and dried cranberries.
- Drizzle the sesame dressing and soy sauce over the mixture, and toss to combine.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- If desired, top with sliced almonds for added crunch.
- Serve immediately or store in the fridge for meal prep.
How to Serve Asian Chicken Cranberry Salad
Serve the salad chilled or at room temperature. It makes a perfect lunch on its own or can be a side dish with grilled chicken or fish. You can also serve it in lettuce wraps for a fun twist.
How to Store Asian Chicken Cranberry Salad
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best enjoyed within a few days. If you prepare it for meal prep, keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat to avoid sogginess.
Tips to Make Asian Chicken Cranberry Salad
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in soy sauce before cooking.
- You can use any type of cabbage you like, such as green, red, or Napa.
- Try adding other ingredients, like sliced green onions or mandarin oranges, for added flavor.
Variation
You can switch up the protein by using shredded turkey or tofu for a vegetarian option. Different nuts, like walnuts or pecans, can also change the texture and flavor.
FAQs
Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?
Fresh cranberries are very tart and may not provide the same sweetness as dried ones. If you prefer a fresher taste, consider using them, but you might want to add a little more sweetener.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it a few hours in advance. Just keep the dressing separate until serving to maintain the cabbage’s crunch.
What dressing can I use if I don’t have sesame dressing?
If you don’t have sesame dressing, a simple mixture of olive oil, vinegar, and a bit of honey can work well as a substitute. Just make sure to adjust the flavors to your liking.
Asian Chicken Cranberry Salad
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 2 cups cabbage, shredded Any type of cabbage can be used.
- 1 cup dried cranberries
Dressing and Seasoning
- 1/4 cup sesame dressing Can substitute with olive oil and vinegar mixture.
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds Optional for added crunch.
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce Optional; marinate chicken for enhanced flavor.
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cabbage, and dried cranberries.
- Drizzle the sesame dressing and soy sauce over the mixture, and toss to combine.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- If desired, top with sliced almonds for added crunch.
Serving
- Serve immediately or store in the fridge for meal prep.