Thai Peanut Chicken Salad Recipe

The Ultimate Thai Peanut Chicken Salad Recipe You’ll Crave Every Day

When it comes to meals that are equal parts delicious, versatile, and healthy, Thai Peanut Chicken Salad tops the list. This dish has been my go-to for everything from quick lunches to meal prep, and it never fails to impress family and friends. Whether you enjoy it as a wrap, sandwich, or paired with noodles, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

In this post, I’ll share my tried-and-true recipe for Thai Peanut Chicken Salad, complete with exact measurements, tips for customization, and even a few product recommendations to make your cooking experience seamless. Let’s dive in!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Thai Peanut Chicken Salad is more than just a salad; it’s a flavor-packed, nutrient-rich dish that caters to a variety of tastes and dietary preferences. Here’s why it’s so special:

Bursting with Flavor: The creamy peanut dressing combines sweet, savory, tangy, and spicy notes for a taste explosion.

Versatile: Serve it as a wrap, sandwich, over rice noodles, or even as a low-carb, keto-friendly option.

Healthy: Packed with protein, fiber, and healthy fats, it’s as nutritious as it is delicious.

Crunch Factor: Crunch slaw adds a satisfying texture that keeps you coming back for more.

Ingredients

For the Salad:

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced (grilled or rotisserie works best)

2 cups crunch slaw (a mix of shredded cabbage, carrots, and snap peas)

1 cup cooked rice noodles (optional for a heartier version)

1/4 cup chopped cilantro (optional, for garnish)

1/4 cup chopped peanuts (optional, for garnish)

For the Dressing/Sauce:

1/4 cup creamy peanut butter

2 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari (for gluten-free)

1 tablespoon lime juice

1 tablespoon rice vinegar

1 tablespoon honey or a low-carb sweetener (like stevia or monk fruit)

1 teaspoon sesame oil

1 teaspoon grated ginger

1 clove garlic, minced

1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (adjust to taste for spice level)

2-3 tablespoons water (to thin the dressing as needed)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Dressing:

In a medium bowl, whisk together the peanut butter, soy sauce, lime juice, rice vinegar, honey, sesame oil, ginger, garlic, and chili flakes. Gradually add water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dressing reaches your desired consistency. Set aside.

2. Assemble the Salad:

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, crunch slaw, and rice noodles (if using). Pour the dressing over the mixture and toss until everything is evenly coated.

3. Customize and Serve:

Serve the salad as-is for a low-carb option, or get creative:

Wrap: Spoon the salad into large lettuce leaves or whole-grain tortillas for a portable wrap.

Sandwich: Pile the salad onto toasted bread for a hearty sandwich.

With Noodles: Serve over cooked rice noodles or pasta for a filling meal.

My Experience Making Thai Peanut Chicken Salad

I’ve been experimenting with Thai Peanut Chicken Salad for years, and it’s always a hit. The first time I made it, I was hosting a casual lunch for friends. I served it as a wrap, and everyone was asking for the recipe by the end of the meal. Over time, I’ve tweaked the dressing to perfection and found new ways to serve it. Now, it’s my go-to for meal prep because it stays fresh for days and can be adapted for any occasion.

Product Recommendations

1. Cuisinart Mini-Prep Plus Food Processor

This compact food processor is perfect for quickly mincing garlic and ginger or blending the dressing to a smooth consistency. It’s a kitchen essential for anyone who loves making homemade sauces and dressings.

Get it on Amazon and elevate your meal prep game today!

2. OXO Good Grips Salad Spinner

To keep your crunch slaw crisp and fresh, a good salad spinner is invaluable. The OXO Good Grips Salad Spinner is easy to use and ensures your veggies are perfectly dry before tossing them with the dressing.

Order now on Amazon to make every salad a masterpiece.

3. Reusable Silicone Food Storage Bags

For meal prep enthusiasts, these eco-friendly silicone bags are ideal for storing your Thai Peanut Chicken Salad. They’re leak-proof, durable, and perfect for keeping your salad fresh on the go.

Shop on Amazon and say goodbye to single-use plastic bags.

Tips for Customization

Spice It Up: Add more chili flakes or a dash of sriracha for extra heat.

Go Peanut-Free: Swap peanut butter for almond butter or sunflower seed butter.

Add Fresh Herbs: Toss in basil or mint for a refreshing twist.

Protein Alternatives: Substitute chicken with shrimp, tofu, or tempeh for variety.

Health Benefits

Thai Peanut Chicken Salad is a powerhouse of nutrition:

High Protein: Chicken and peanuts provide a protein boost to keep you full.

Low Carb: Skip the noodles for a keto-friendly version.

Rich in Vitamins: Crunch slaw is packed with fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants.

Healthy Fats: The peanut dressing offers heart-healthy fats.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare the salad and dressing separately, then toss them together just before serving to keep everything fresh and crunchy.

How long does it last in the fridge?

Stored in an airtight container, the salad will stay fresh for up to 3 days.

Can I freeze Thai Peanut Chicken Salad?

It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze the cooked chicken and dressing separately for up to 3 months.

Thai Peanut Chicken Salad is a versatile, flavorful dish that fits seamlessly into any lifestyle. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week, hosting a casual lunch, or looking for a quick and healthy dinner, this recipe has you covered.

Try it out and let me know your favorite way to enjoy it! Share your creations on social media and tag me—I’d love to see your delicious twists on this classic dish.