Easy Asian Chicken Cranberry Salad Recipe

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Chicken: Shredded cooked chicken is the star of this salad. You can use rotisserie chicken for convenience or any leftover chicken. For a lighter option, try shredded tofu or chickpeas for a vegetarian twist.

Cabbage: Green cabbage adds crunch and texture. You could use napa cabbage or even a pre-mixed coleslaw blend for variety. Purple cabbage is also a colorful substitute.

Mandarin Oranges: Fresh mandarin oranges give a lovely sweetness. If they’re out of season, canned segments work well! Just remember to drain them properly. Pineapple or apples can be good alternatives too.

Dried Cranberries: They bring sweetness and color. You can swap them for raisins, dried cherries, or even chopped dates for a different flavor boost.

Dressing Ingredients: If mayo isn’t your thing, try Greek yogurt for a healthier dressing base. If you need a vegan option, use vegan mayo or silken tofu blended until smooth.

How Do I Properly Toss a Salad Without Making a Mess?

Tossing a salad can sometimes feel like a battle! Here’s how to make it easy and mess-free:

• Use a large bowl to give everything room to move around.
• Start with your salad base (like cabbage) and add in the other ingredients gradually.
• Hold the bowl steady with one hand and use the other to gently lift ingredients from the bottom to the top, flipping them over.
• A big spoon or salad tongs can help—just be gentle to avoid bruising delicate ingredients.

Remember, tossing should be more about combining than smashing. Enjoy the process, and your salad will be just as fresh and appealing!

Easy Asian Chicken Cranberry Salad

Ingredients You’ll Need:

For the Salad:

• 3 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
• 4 cups shredded green cabbage (approx. half a small head)
• 1 cup shredded carrots
• 1/2 cup finely chopped red onion
• 1 cup mandarin orange segments (fresh or canned, drained)
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries
• 1/3 cup sliced almonds (toasted if desired)
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 1 tbsp poppy seeds

For the Dressing:

• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tbsp rice vinegar
• 2 tbsp honey
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tsp grated fresh ginger (optional)
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste

How Much Time Will You Need?

This salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus 30 minutes in the fridge to let the flavors come together. In total, you’re looking at about 45 minutes from start to finish to enjoy this fresh and flavorful dish!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Assemble the Base:

In a large salad bowl, start by combining the shredded chicken, shredded cabbage, shredded carrots, and chopped red onion. These ingredients create a crunchy, colorful base for your salad. Toss them gently to mix.

2. Add the Fun Ingredients:

Next, add in the mandarin orange segments, dried cranberries, sliced almonds, chopped cilantro, and poppy seeds. The oranges add sweetness, the cranberries bring tartness, and the almonds give a lovely crunch. It’s a delightful mix!

3. Make the Dressing:

In a smaller bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, rice vinegar, honey, soy sauce, grated ginger (if you’re using it), minced garlic, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Keep whisking until everything is well blended and smooth—this dressing is what pulls everything together!

4. Combine Everything:

Pour the dressing over the salad mixture. Gently toss everything together until all the ingredients are coated in that delicious dressing—be careful not to break the mandarin oranges!

5. Taste and Adjust:

Take a quick taste of your salad and adjust the seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed. You can also add a bit more honey for sweetness if you prefer.

6. Chill and Serve:

Cover the bowl and place it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This helps the flavors meld beautifully. When you’re ready to serve, dish it out cold and enjoy a refreshing, vibrant salad!

Enjoy your Easy Asian Chicken Cranberry Salad! 🌟🥗

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I Use Leftover Rotisserie Chicken for This Salad?

Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken is perfect for this salad and adds great flavor. Just shred it and mix it in with the other ingredients—easy and convenient!

How Long Can I Store This Salad?

The salad can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. However, be mindful that the cabbage may soften over time, so it’s best enjoyed within the first day or two for maximum crunch!

Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?

Yes! You can prep the salad a few hours ahead, just keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve to avoid sogginess. Combine everything right before serving for the freshest taste!

What Can I Substitute for the Mayonnaise in the Dressing?

If you’d like a lighter option, you can substitute the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or a vegan mayo for a delicious creamy texture without the extra calories. Blended silken tofu is another great dairy-free option!