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Crunchy Thai Chicken Salad with Peanut Dressing Recipe

Crunchy Thai Chicken Salad with Peanut Dressing Recipe

5.2 from 17 reviews

A vibrant and crunchy Thai chicken salad featuring tender grilled chicken breast, fresh bell peppers, carrots, cucumbers, and fragrant herbs, all tossed in a creamy, tangy peanut dressing. This refreshing salad balances savory, sweet, and citrus flavors for a light yet satisfying meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

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

Vegetables and 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, for sweetness)
  • Water as needed to thin dressing

Instructions

  1. Season and Cook Chicken: Season the chicken breasts evenly with salt and pepper. Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat, then cook the chicken for about 6 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Remove from heat and let the chicken rest to retain juices before slicing.
  2. Prepare Vegetables and Herbs: While the chicken cools, thinly slice the bell peppers, julienne the carrots, dice the cucumbers, and chop the cilantro and mint. Set aside in a large mixing bowl.
  3. Make Peanut Dressing: In a separate bowl, combine the unsweetened peanut butter, low-sodium soy sauce, freshly squeezed lime juice, and honey if using. Whisk thoroughly until smooth, adding water little by little to reach a pourable dressing consistency.
  4. Slice Chicken: Cut the rested chicken breasts into strips or bite-sized cubes to make them easy to mix with the salad ingredients.
  5. Toss Salad: Add the sliced chicken to the bowl with veggies and herbs. Pour the peanut dressing over the mixture and gently toss everything together to ensure an even coating.
  6. Serve: Serve the crunchy Thai chicken salad immediately for the freshest taste, or chill it in the refrigerator if preferred later. This salad makes a great light meal or side dish.

Notes

  • For a spicier kick, add some finely chopped red chili or a dash of chili flakes to the dressing.
  • If peanut allergy is a concern, substitute peanut butter with tahini or almond butter.
  • The salad is best consumed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
  • Adjust honey quantity based on your sweetness preference or omit for a sugar-free option.
  • Use low-sodium soy sauce to keep sodium levels moderate.

Nutrition

Keywords: Thai chicken salad, peanut dressing, crunchy salad, healthy chicken recipe, Thai cuisine, quick chicken salad