This Asian Chicken Cranberry Salad combines tender chicken, crunchy vegetables, toasted almonds, and tangy dried cranberries for a deliciously fresh and flavorful dish. The sesame-soy dressing adds a zesty kick, making this salad perfect for lunch, a light dinner, or a healthy meal prep option.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Ready in 15 minutes with no cooking required.
- Perfect Balance of Flavors: Sweet cranberries, savory chicken, and a zesty Asian-inspired dressing.
- Great for Meal Prep: Can be prepped in advance for easy lunches or dinners.
- Nutritious and Light: Packed with lean protein, fiber, and a variety of textures.
Ingredients
For the Salad
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
- 1 cup romaine lettuce, chopped
- ½ cup red cabbage, thinly sliced
- ¼ cup carrots, julienned
- ¼ cup dried cranberries
- ¼ cup green onions, sliced
- ¼ cup sliced almonds, toasted
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
For the Dressing
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon honey
- ½ teaspoon ginger, grated
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Salad
- In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, romaine lettuce, red cabbage, carrots, dried cranberries, green onions, toasted almonds, and sesame seeds.
Step 2: Make the Dressing
- In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, honey, grated ginger, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Step 3: Combine and Serve
- Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and gently toss to coat everything evenly.
- Serve immediately or chill for 15 minutes to let the flavors meld.
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Large salad bowl
- Small mixing bowl
- Whisk or fork for mixing
- Cutting board and knife
Serving and Storage Tips
Serving Suggestions: This salad is best enjoyed immediately or after a short chill. Serve as a light lunch or dinner, or as a side dish to complement Asian-inspired main dishes.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. For best results, keep the dressing separate until just before serving.
Meal Prep Tip: Prepare the salad ingredients and dressing separately, then combine just before eating to keep it fresh.
Recipe Variations
- Add Fresh Herbs: Toss in fresh cilantro or basil for a burst of flavor.
- Crunchy Wonton Strips: Add crunchy wonton strips for extra texture.
- Fruit Swap: Replace cranberries with mandarin oranges or sliced apples for a different flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the dressing for a touch of heat.
Helpful Notes
- Toasted Almonds: Toast the almonds in a dry skillet over medium heat for a few minutes to bring out their flavor.
- Adjust the Dressing: For a sweeter dressing, add a bit more honey. For more acidity, add extra rice vinegar.
- Use Fresh Ginger and Garlic: Freshly grated ginger and minced garlic add the best flavor to the dressing.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
Ina Garten’s Salad Advice: Always season salads to taste after adding the dressing for a perfectly balanced flavor.
Gordon Ramsay’s Flavor Tip: Marinate the shredded chicken briefly in a bit of soy sauce and sesame oil before adding to the salad for an extra depth of flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Yes, rotisserie chicken works great in this salad for added convenience.
Can I make this salad vegetarian?
You can replace the chicken with tofu or chickpeas for a vegetarian version.
What can I substitute for soy sauce?
Try tamari or coconut aminos for a gluten-free option that’s similar in taste to soy sauce.
Can I use different greens?
Absolutely! Spinach, mixed greens, or arugula would also work well in this salad.
How do I keep the salad from getting soggy?
If making in advance, keep the dressing separate and add it just before serving.
This Asian Chicken Cranberry Salad is a fresh, light, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any time of the year. With its vibrant colors, crunchy textures, and delicious dressing, it’s sure to be a favorite! Enjoy!
