Asian Chicken Crunch Salad

Name: Asian Chicken Crunch Salad
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 1 pound chicken breast; 1/4 cup low sodium soy sauce (or tamari); 3 cups shredded purple cabbage; 3 cups shredded green cabbage; 1 cup shredded carrot; 1 red bell pepper (sliced); 3 tablespoons natural creamy peanut butter; Fresh cilantro

Published: December 12, 2025

by Vanessaa

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Prepare: With minimal cooking time and simple steps, you’ll have a flavorful meal ready in no time.
Packed with Nutrients: Fresh vegetables and lean chicken provide essential vitamins while keeping calories in check.
Versatile Ingredients: You can customize the salad based on your favorite veggies or add more protein options like tofu or shrimp.
Make Ahead Friendly: The salad stores well, making it great for lunches throughout the week.
Flavorful Dressing: The homemade peanut dressing adds a rich, savory touch that complements the crunch of the veggies perfectly.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this recipe, gather your essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment will make preparing your Asian Chicken Crunch Salad easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

A sharp knife
Cutting board
Mixing bowls
Whisk
Skillet or frying pan
Mandoline (optional)

Importance of Each Tool

Sharp Knife: A sharp knife ensures clean cuts, making prep work quicker and safer.
Mixing Bowls: Using mixing bowls helps keep ingredients organized while you prepare your salad components.
Skillet or Frying Pan: This is essential for cooking the chicken evenly to achieve that crispy texture.
Mandoline: For those who want perfectly shredded veggies quickly, a mandoline is an excellent time-saver.

Ingredients

This Thai peanut chicken crunch salad is the perfect meal prep recipe. It’s full of fresh, crisp veggies, crispy sesame chicken and a simple peanut dressing that you’ll want to put on everything!

For the Chicken Marinade

1 pound chicken breast
1/4 cup low sodium soy sauce or tamari
1 tablespoon minced garlic
1-2 tablespoons brown sugar (depending on preference)
1 tablespoon tahini
1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
2 teaspoons fresh grated ginger
1 tablespoon sriracha
1 tablespoon sesame seeds

For the Salad Base

3 cups shredded purple cabbage
3 cups shredded green cabbage
1 cup shredded carrot
1 red bell pepper (sliced into strips)
1/2 cup shelled edamame
1/2 cup diced green onion
1/2 cup chopped cilantro

For the Dressing

3 tablespoons natural creamy peanut butter
2 tablespoons rice vinegar
2 tablespoons honey
1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
2 tablespoons low sodium soy sauce or tamari
1 teaspoon fresh grated ginger
1 teaspoon minced garlic
2 teaspoons sriracha
2 tablespoons warm water (or more as needed to thin)

For Garnish

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Asian Chicken Crunch Salad

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Cut the chicken into small cubes, about 1 inch. In a shallow bowl, whisk together all ingredients for the chicken marinade. Add in the chicken cubes and let them marinate while you prepare the rest of the salad.

Step 2: Prepare the Dressing

In another bowl, whisk together all ingredients for the dressing until smooth. Set aside so it can meld flavors.

Step 3: Shred the Vegetables

Use a mandoline or knife to shred the cabbage. Then add all of your shredded vegetables—purple cabbage, green cabbage, carrots, bell pepper, edamame, green onions, and cilantro—to a large mixing bowl.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

Heat a skillet with a splash of oil over medium heat. Add in the marinated chicken but leave aside any remaining marinade. Cook on all sides for about 3 minutes or until browned. After browning, add in the remaining marinade.

Step 5: Finish Cooking Chicken

Cook until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit and the sauce has thickened. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

Step 6: Combine Salad

While cooling, toss your mixed vegetables with as much of the dressing as you prefer. Once combined, add in the cooked chicken and toss again to combine everything well.

Step 7: Serve

Garnish with additional cilantro and sesame seeds if desired. Enjoy your fresh Asian Chicken Crunch Salad!

How to Serve Asian Chicken Crunch Salad

Serving the Asian Chicken Crunch Salad is as versatile as it is delicious. This salad can be enjoyed in various ways, making it perfect for lunch, dinner, or even a light snack. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

As a Standalone Meal

Enjoy the salad on its own for a light and nutritious meal that’s packed with protein and vitamins.

In Lettuce Wraps

Use large lettuce leaves to create wraps filled with the salad. This adds a fun twist and makes it easy to eat on the go.

With Extra Dressing

Drizzle additional peanut dressing over the top for those who love a bit more flavor. It enhances the taste and gives a creamy texture.

On a Bed of Quinoa

Serve the salad over cooked quinoa for added fiber and protein. This makes it more filling while keeping it healthy.

As Part of a Meal Prep

Divide portions into containers for an easy meal prep option. This keeps your lunches organized and ready to grab during busy weekdays.

How to Perfect Asian Chicken Crunch Salad

To ensure your Asian Chicken Crunch Salad is both tasty and visually appealing, consider these helpful tips:

Choose Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh veggies to enhance flavor and crunchiness in your salad.
Marinate Longer: Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes for deeper flavor absorption.
Adjust Texture: Shred veggies finely or coarsely based on your preference; this changes the texture and mouthfeel.
Experiment with Proteins: Substitute chicken with tofu or shrimp for a different protein option that suits your diet.
Serve Chilled: Refrigerate the salad before serving; this keeps it crisp and refreshing, especially on warm days.
Add Crunch: Incorporate additional nuts or crispy noodles right before serving for an extra crunch factor.

Best Side Dishes for Asian Chicken Crunch Salad

Pairing side dishes with your Asian Chicken Crunch Salad can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options that complement the flavors of this salad beautifully.

Spring Rolls: Lightly fried or fresh spring rolls filled with vegetables make a perfect crunchy side.
Rice Noodles: Soft rice noodles tossed in sesame oil can serve as a delightful complement, providing additional texture.
Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup adds depth to your meal while keeping it light and comforting.
Fruit Salad: A tangy fruit salad can balance out the savory flavors of the chicken salad, offering freshness.
Cucumber Salad: A cool cucumber salad dressed in rice vinegar will enhance the overall freshness of your meal.
Edamame Beans: Steamed edamame sprinkled with sea salt is a nutritious side that echoes ingredients from the main dish.
Garlic Naan Bread: Soft garlic naan can be used to scoop up the salad, adding a unique twist to each bite.
Pickled Vegetables: A small serving of pickled vegetables provides acidity that brightens up the whole plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making the Asian Chicken Crunch Salad can be straightforward, but there are common pitfalls to avoid for the best results.

Using old ingredients: Fresh veggies are key for a crunchy salad. Always check the freshness of your produce before starting.
Skipping the marinade: Marinating the chicken adds flavor. Don’t rush this step; letting it sit while prepping will enhance the taste.
Overcooking the chicken: Keep an eye on cooking times. Overcooked chicken can become dry, so aim for that perfect golden brown.
Not adjusting the dressing: Everyone has different tastes. Start with a little dressing and add more as needed to suit your preference.
Ignoring texture variations: This salad is all about crunch! Include a variety of textures by using different types of cabbage and fresh veggies.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
The Asian Chicken Crunch Salad can last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Asian Chicken Crunch Salad

It’s best to avoid freezing this salad because of the fresh vegetables. However, if necessary, store in a freezer-safe container.
Use within 1 month for optimal quality, but note that texture may change after thawing.

Reheating Asian Chicken Crunch Salad

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place the chicken on a baking sheet, and heat until warmed through.
Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish and heat in short bursts, stirring in between until warm.
Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed, adding a splash of water if needed to retain moisture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I customize my Asian Chicken Crunch Salad?

You can definitely customize this salad! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or nuts based on personal preferences.

What is the best way to make Asian Chicken Crunch Salad ahead of time?

To prepare ahead, marinate the chicken and chop veggies separately. Combine just before serving for maximum freshness.

How can I make this salad vegetarian?

To make an Asian Chicken Crunch Salad vegetarian, simply replace the chicken with tofu or chickpeas for protein.

What can I substitute for peanut butter?

If you’re allergic or prefer not to use peanut butter, try almond butter or sunflower seed butter for a similar creamy texture.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

You can easily make this salad gluten-free by substituting soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos.

Final Thoughts

The Asian Chicken Crunch Salad is not only delicious but also versatile. With its vibrant mix of flavors and textures, it’s perfect for meal prep or as a refreshing side dish. Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite ingredients or dressings—this recipe invites creativity in every bite!

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