Thai Chicken Salad with Peanut Dressing

Name: Thai Chicken Salad with Peanut Dressing
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded; 4 cups mixed salad greens; 1 cup shredded carrots; 1 cup red bell pepper, sliced; 1/2 cup cucumber, sliced; 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced; 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped; 1/4 cup roasted peanuts, chopped; 1/4 cup peanut butter; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon honey; 1 tablespoon rice vinegar; 1 teaspoon sesame oil; 1 clove garlic, minced; 1-2 tablespoons water (to thin out the dressing)

Highlighted under: Cultures on a Plate Recipes

This Thai Chicken Salad with Peanut Dressing is a vibrant and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and a creamy peanut dressing for a refreshing meal.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-16T22:02:18.543Z

This Thai Chicken Salad is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. The combination of crisp vegetables, tender chicken, and a rich peanut dressing makes it a satisfying meal any time of the day.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        A perfect balance of flavors with a creamy and slightly spicy dressing
Packed with fresh vegetables for a crunchy texture
Great for meal prep and can be enjoyed cold or at room temperature
Healthy protein from chicken keeps you full and satisfied

      

A Burst of Freshness

One of the standout features of this Thai Chicken Salad is its vibrant array of fresh vegetables. The combination of crunchy carrots, crisp cucumber, and sweet bell peppers not only adds color but also boosts the nutritional profile of the dish. Each bite delivers a delightful crunch that perfectly complements the tender, shredded chicken, making this salad not only visually appealing but also incredibly satisfying.

Fresh cilantro adds a fragrant herbaceous note that elevates the overall flavor. Its unique taste pairs beautifully with the rich peanut dressing, providing a refreshing contrast that keeps your palate engaged. This salad is a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your meals while enjoying an explosion of flavors.

The Creamy Peanut Dressing

The star of this recipe is undoubtedly the creamy peanut dressing. Made with simple ingredients like peanut butter, soy sauce, and honey, it strikes a perfect balance between sweetness and umami. The addition of garlic gives it a savory depth, while the rice vinegar adds just the right amount of tanginess, rounding out the flavors beautifully.

This dressing is not only delicious but incredibly versatile. You can use it on various salads or as a dip for spring rolls and veggies. Adjust the thickness by adding water to your preference, making it adaptable for different dishes. It's a keeper that you'll want to make again and again!

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether you're hosting a summer barbecue, preparing a light lunch, or looking for a meal prep option, this Thai Chicken Salad fits the bill. It's quick to assemble, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights or when you need to whip something up for guests on short notice. Plus, it can be made in advance and enjoyed cold or at room temperature, making it perfect for picnics or potlucks.

The salad is not only visually stunning but also offers a wholesome balance of protein and nutrients that will keep you satisfied. With the healthy chicken providing lean protein and the array of vegetables delivering essential vitamins and minerals, this dish is a guilt-free indulgence that won't let you down.

Ingredients

For the Salad

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
4 cups mixed salad greens
1 cup shredded carrots
1 cup red bell pepper, sliced
1/2 cup cucumber, sliced
1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
1/4 cup roasted peanuts, chopped

For the Peanut Dressing

1/4 cup peanut butter
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon honey
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 teaspoon sesame oil
1 clove garlic, minced
1-2 tablespoons water (to thin out the dressing)

Mix and match the vegetables according to your preference!

Instructions

Prepare the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and garlic until smooth. Add water, one tablespoon at a time, until desired consistency is reached.

Assemble the Salad

In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, salad greens, carrots, bell pepper, cucumber, red onion, and cilantro.

Dress the Salad

Drizzle the peanut dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine. Top with chopped peanuts.

Serve

Serve immediately or chill for later. Enjoy your healthy Thai Chicken Salad!

Feel free to customize the salad with your favorite vegetables!

Tips for Customization

Feel free to customize this salad to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. If you're looking for a vegetarian option, substitute the chicken with grilled tofu or chickpeas for added protein. You can also switch up the vegetables based on what you have on hand—broccoli, snap peas, or even edamame can work wonderfully in this salad.

For those who enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the dressing. This will give the salad an extra kick and enhance its Thai-inspired flavors. Personalizing this recipe ensures it remains a favorite in your meal rotation.

Storage and Meal Prep

If you're planning on making this salad ahead of time, store the dressing separately to keep the greens fresh and crisp. You can prepare the salad components in advance and combine them just before serving. This makes it an ideal meal prep option for busy individuals looking to eat healthy throughout the week.

When stored properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator, the salad can last for up to three days. Just be sure to give the dressing a good stir before drizzling it over the salad, as the ingredients may separate over time.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different protein?

Yes, tofu or shrimp can be great alternatives to chicken.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

→ Can I make the dressing ahead of time?

Absolutely! The dressing can be made a few days in advance and stored in the refrigerator.

→ Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, if you use gluten-free soy sauce, this salad can be gluten-free.