Thai Peanut Chicken Salad

There’s something magical about a vibrant bowl of Thai Peanut Chicken Salad. Picture this: tender chicken mingling with crunchy veggies, all tossed in a creamy, nutty dressing that will make your taste buds dance. It’s like a party on your plate, and trust me, you’ll want to join in. The aroma of fresh cilantro and zesty lime fills the air, promising a flavor explosion that’s both refreshing and satisfying.

This dish isn’t just food it’s an experience. I still remember the first time I made it for a summer barbecue. Friends gathered around, plates piled high, laughter echoing through the yard as everyone dug into my creation. The compliments flowed as freely as the lemonade, and that’s when I realized this salad was destined to be a staple at every gathering. Whether it’s a sunny picnic or a cozy family dinner, Thai Peanut Chicken Salad is always a crowd-pleaser.

I remember making this salad for my cousin’s wedding reception. Everyone couldn’t stop raving about how delicious it was

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 chicken breasts work well adjust based on the number of hungry guests.
• Red Bell Pepper: Choose firm peppers for crunch they add sweetness and color to your salad.
• Cucumber: A crisp cucumber adds refreshing crunch peel it if you prefer a milder flavor.
• Carrots: Grate or julienne fresh carrots for vibrant color and extra crunch who doesn’t love some orange on their plate?
• Fresh Cilantro: Use fresh cilantro for a burst of flavor it really elevates the dish
• Peanuts: Toasted peanuts lend amazing crunch use unsalted ones for better control over seasoning.

For the Sauce:

• Peanut Butter: Creamy peanut butter creates that rich base smooth varieties blend best into the dressing.
• Soy Sauce: Low-sodium soy sauce helps control saltiness without sacrificing flavor.
• Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed lime juice adds brightness skip bottled options for maximum zing
• Honey or Maple Syrup: Sweeten things up with honey or maple syrup adjust according to your taste preference.
• Garlic Clove: Minced fresh garlic gives depth avoid powdered garlic for more robust flavor.
• Ginger Root: Grated ginger brings warmth and spice it’s like giving your dressing a little kick

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Cook the Chicken : Start by preheating your grill or pan over medium heat. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper before cooking them until golden brown about 6-7 minutes per side.

Chop Your Veggies : While the chicken cooks, chop up your red bell pepper, cucumber, carrots, and cilantro. Let those colors shine they’re nature’s confetti

Make the Dressing : In a bowl, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, lime juice, honey or maple syrup, minced garlic, and grated ginger until smooth. This dressing is where magic happens

Toss It All Together : Once the chicken has cooked through (165°F internally), let it rest before slicing it thinly. Toss together sliced chicken with veggies and peanuts in a large bowl.

Add That Dressing : Pour that heavenly dressing over everything Gently toss until everything is coated in deliciousness. You want every bite bursting with flavor.

Serve & Enjoy : Serve immediately or chill in the fridge if you want to savor those flavors longer. Garnish with extra peanuts or cilantro if you’re feeling fancy

This Thai Peanut Chicken Salad is more than just another recipe it’s an adventure waiting to happen It’s perfect for those busy weeknights or lazy weekends when you need something quick yet tasty. So grab those ingredients and get ready to impress yourself (and anyone lucky enough to share this delightful dish with you).

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by marinating the chicken in peanut sauce while chopping vegetables. Cook the chicken until golden brown, then mix everything together for maximum flavor and freshness.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out chicken for tofu or shrimp, add extra veggies like bell peppers, or throw in some crunchy nuts for added texture.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Enjoy chilled or reheat briefly in the microwave, but be careful not to overheat the salad.

Sometimes I whip up this Thai Peanut Chicken Salad when friends come over, and their faces light up at first bite it’s like magic every single time.

FAQ

Can I use another protein instead of chicken?

Absolutely Tofu or shrimp work beautifully in this Thai Peanut Chicken Salad recipe.

How long can I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to three days in the fridge.

What if I don’t have peanut sauce?

You can easily make homemade peanut sauce using peanut butter, soy sauce, and lime juice.

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Thai Peanut Chicken Salad

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Thai Peanut Chicken Salad is a vibrant and delicious dish that combines tender chicken with crunchy vegetables, all tossed in a creamy peanut dressing. This refreshing salad is perfect for gatherings, meal prep, or a quick weeknight dinner. With its delightful mix of flavors and textures, it’s sure to impress your family and friends!

• Author: Jennifer
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6
• Category: Salad
• Method: Grilling/Pan Cooking
• Cuisine: Thai

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb)
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 cucumber, diced
• 2 medium carrots, grated
• 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1/2 cup toasted peanuts
• 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
• 3 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
• Juice of 2 limes (about 4 tbsp)
• 2 tbsp honey or maple syrup
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1 tsp grated ginger

Instructions

1. Preheat grill or pan over medium heat. Season the chicken with salt and pepper, then cook until golden brown (about 6-7 minutes per side) until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Let rest before slicing.
2. While the chicken cooks, chop the red bell pepper, cucumber, carrots, and cilantro.
3. In a bowl, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, lime juice, honey or maple syrup, garlic, and ginger until smooth.
4. In a large bowl, combine sliced chicken with vegetables and toasted peanuts. Pour the dressing over everything and toss gently to coat.
5. Serve immediately or chill in the fridge for enhanced flavors.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (approx. 200g)
• Calories: 380
• Sugar: 9g
• Sodium: 550mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 15g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Fiber: 6g
• Protein: 26g
• Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: For added flavor, marinate the chicken in peanut sauce for an hour before cooking. Feel free to substitute chicken with tofu or shrimp for different protein options. Customize with additional veggies like snap peas or broccoli.