Thai Chicken Salad with Peanut Dressing is a vibrant, flavorful, and healthy dish that combines crisp vegetables, tender chicken, and a rich, nutty dressing. This salad delivers a perfect balance of textures and tastes — crunchy, creamy, tangy, and savory — making it ideal for lunch, dinner, or even meal prep.

Infused with Thai-inspired flavors like lime, ginger, garlic, and sesame, this salad is light yet satisfying. The peanut dressing ties all the ingredients together, providing a luscious coating without being overwhelming. Perfect for warm-weather meals, quick lunches, or a colorful side, this salad is both nourishing and delicious.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s fresh, flavorful, and versatile. The combination of crisp vegetables, tender chicken, and the rich peanut dressing creates a satisfying mix of textures and tastes.

It’s a healthier option that doesn’t compromise on flavor. It’s also highly customizable — you can add extra veggies, adjust spice levels, or even serve it as a wrap.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

This salad is a must-try because it blends freshness with bold Thai flavors in a simple, easy-to-make dish. It’s a perfect way to get protein, vegetables, and healthy fats all in one meal.

The peanut dressing elevates the salad, creating a restaurant-quality flavor at home. Quick to prepare, visually appealing, and packed with nutrients, this dish is ideal for health-conscious eaters and anyone who enjoys bold, exotic flavors.

Recipe Details

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 10 minutes (for chicken)
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Servings: 2–3
• Calories: ~400 kcal per serving
• Course: Main Course / Lunch / Dinner
• Cuisine: Thai / Asian-Inspired

Ingredients

For the Salad:

• 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or sliced
• 2 cups shredded cabbage (green or purple)
• 1 cup grated carrots
• 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 cucumber, thinly sliced or julienned
• 2 green onions, sliced
• ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• ¼ cup chopped roasted peanuts (for garnish)
• Optional: bean sprouts, edamame, or snow peas

For the Peanut Dressing:

• ¼ cup creamy peanut butter
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons lime juice (freshly squeezed)
• 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
• 1 small garlic clove, minced
• 2–4 tablespoons warm water (to thin, as needed)
• Optional: ¼ teaspoon red chili flakes for heat

Cooking Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. If using raw chicken, season with salt and pepper, then cook in a skillet with a little oil over medium heat until fully cooked (about 6–8 minutes per side).
2. Let rest, then shred or slice the chicken.

Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables

• Wash, peel, and slice all vegetables as indicated.
• Place cabbage, carrots, bell pepper, cucumber, and green onions in a large mixing bowl.

Step 3: Make the Peanut Dressing

1. In a small bowl, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, lime juice, honey, sesame oil, ginger, and garlic.
2. Gradually add warm water, 1 tablespoon at a time, until the dressing reaches a smooth, pourable consistency.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning or sweetness as desired.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad

• Add cooked chicken to the vegetable mixture.
• Pour dressing over the top and toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

• Sprinkle with chopped peanuts and fresh cilantro.
• Optional: add bean sprouts or a squeeze of lime juice. Serve immediately.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

1. Cook Chicken: Season and cook chicken until fully done. Shred or slice.
2. Prepare Veggies: Wash, peel, and cut cabbage, carrots, bell pepper, cucumber, and green onions.
3. Make Dressing: Whisk peanut butter, soy sauce, lime, honey, sesame oil, ginger, and garlic; thin with warm water.
4. Combine: Toss chicken and vegetables with peanut dressing.
5. Garnish: Top with chopped peanuts and cilantro. Serve immediately.

How to Serve

• Serve as a main course salad for lunch or dinner.
• Pair with steamed jasmine rice or quinoa for a heartier meal.
• Use as a filling for wraps or lettuce cups for a light, portable option.
• Add chili flakes or Sriracha for extra spice.

Recipe Tips

• Prep Ahead: Vegetables and chicken can be prepared ahead; toss with dressing just before serving.
• Customize Dressing: Adjust peanut butter, lime juice, or soy sauce for flavor preference.
• Crunch Factor: Toast peanuts lightly for extra flavor and crunch.
• Balance Flavors: Add a pinch of salt, a dash of honey, or extra lime to achieve perfect sweet, salty, and tangy balance.
• Serving Cold or Room Temp: This salad is best served fresh, but can be served slightly chilled or at room temperature.

Variations

• Spicy Thai Chicken Salad: Add chili flakes, Sriracha, or fresh jalapeño slices.
• Vegan Version: Replace chicken with tofu, tempeh, or edamame.
• Crunchy Variation: Add crispy wonton strips or fried noodles on top.
• Extra Veggies: Include snow peas, bean sprouts, shredded cabbage, or bell peppers of different colors.
• Nut-Free Option: Use sunflower seed butter instead of peanut butter and skip peanuts.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Keep salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
• Note: Dressing can be stored separately for up to 1 week; mix with salad just before serving.
• Freezing: Not recommended for this salad due to fresh vegetables; chicken can be frozen separately.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large mixing bowl
• Whisk or fork for dressing
• Knife and cutting board
• Small skillet (if cooking chicken)
• Measuring spoons and cups

FAQ

Q: Can I make this salad ahead of time?
A: Yes, prep vegetables and chicken ahead. Keep dressing separate until serving to prevent sogginess.

Q: Can I use rotisserie chicken?
A: Absolutely! Shredded rotisserie chicken saves time and adds flavor.

Q: How can I make it spicier?
A: Add chili flakes, Sriracha, or fresh chopped chili to the dressing.

Q: Can I replace peanuts with another nut?
A: Yes, cashews or almonds work well. For nut-free, use roasted seeds.

Q: Can I serve this as a wrap?
A: Yes, spoon salad into large lettuce leaves or tortillas for a delicious wrap.

Conclusion

Thai Chicken Salad with Peanut Dressing is a vibrant, healthy, and flavorful dish that’s easy to make and satisfying to eat. With tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and a rich, nutty dressing, it’s a perfect balance of textures and flavors.

This salad is ideal for quick lunches, weekend dinners, or meal prep, and can be easily customized to suit dietary preferences. Fresh, colorful, and packed with flavor, it’s a must-try for anyone who loves Thai-inspired cuisine and nutritious meals.