Asian Citrus Chicken Crunch Salad

In today’s post, we’re diving into a vibrant and refreshing recipe that’s perfect for any season but especially delightful in the warm months. Our Asian Citrus Chicken Crunch Salad combines fresh, crunchy vegetables with juicy mandarin oranges and tender chicken, all tossed in a tangy Asian-inspired dressing. It’s a dish that promises a burst of flavors and textures in every bite!

Ingredients:

For the Salad:

• 3 cups thinly sliced Napa cabbage
• 1 cup thinly sliced red cabbage
• 1 cup shredded carrots
• 1 cup thinly sliced sugar snap peas
• 3 green onions, thinly sliced
• 3 cups cooked, shredded chicken
• 1 cup mandarin orange segments, drained
• 1 cup chopped fresh cilantro leaves
• ⅓ cup toasted slivered almonds
• Optional: sesame seeds for garnish

For the Dressing:

• ¼ cup unseasoned rice vinegar
• 3 tablespoons toasted sesame oil
• 3 tablespoons coconut aminos
• 2 tablespoons avocado oil
• ½ teaspoon ground ginger
• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder

Directions:

1. Combine the Greens: In a large bowl, mix together the Napa cabbage, red cabbage, carrots, sugar snap peas, and green onions.
2. Prepare the Dressing: In a separate bowl, whisk together the rice vinegar, sesame oil, coconut aminos, avocado oil, ginger, and garlic powder until well blended.
3. Toss the Salad: Pour the dressing over the mixed greens in the large bowl and toss to ensure everything is evenly coated with the flavorful dressing.
4. Add the Final Touches: Just before serving, gently fold in the mandarin oranges, chopped cilantro, and toasted almonds to maintain their freshness and crunch.
5. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with sesame seeds if using, for an added visual appeal and extra crunch.

Serving Suggestions:

This salad makes a perfect light lunch on its own or can be paired with a soup or sandwich for a more filling meal. It’s also great for picnics and potlucks, as it can be made ahead—just add the almonds and oranges right before serving to keep everything fresh.

Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4

This Asian Citrus Chicken Crunch Salad is not just a feast for your taste buds but also a visual delight. The vibrant colors of the fresh vegetables combined with the bright citrus and the nutty crunch of almonds make this salad a must-try for any salad lover looking for a nutritious and delicious meal option. Enjoy crafting this delightful dish and savor the fresh flavors it brings to your table!