Easy Thai Chicken Salad with Spicy Peanut Dressing – High-Protein, Fresh, and Flavor-Packed
A vibrant Thai chicken salad tossed in creamy peanut dressing, loaded with grilled chicken, crunchy cabbage, carrots, bell peppers, and lime. This high-protein, low-carb salad is perfect for healthy meal prep, gluten-free diets, and quick weeknight dinners. Customize it with your favorite fresh herbs and a touch of spice for an easy, flavor-packed lunch or dinner that satisfies.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken breast (or thighs)
- 2 cups shredded cabbage red or green
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1 bell pepper thinly sliced
- ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro
- ¼ cup chopped green onions
- ¼ cup chopped peanuts or cashews optional
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds optional
Dressing:
- ¼ cup creamy peanut butter
- 2 tbsp lime juice about 1 lime
- 1 tbsp soy sauce or tamari for gluten-free
- 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1 garlic clove grated
- 1 tsp grated fresh ginger
- Pinch red chili flakes or sriracha to taste
- Water to thin as needed
Instructions
- Make the Dressing: Whisk together all dressing ingredients in a bowl. Thin with water until pourable.
- Toss the Salad: In a large bowl, combine chicken, cabbage, carrots, peppers, cilantro, and green onions.
- Dress & Mix: Pour dressing over salad and toss until everything is evenly coated.
- Finish & Serve: Top with chopped peanuts, sesame seeds, and extra herbs if desired. Serve chilled.
Notes
Secret Tips for the Best Thai Chicken Salad
- Massage the Cabbage: Lightly massage your shredded cabbage with a pinch of salt before tossing—it softens the texture and helps absorb the dressing better.
- Use Rotisserie Chicken: If you're short on time, rotisserie chicken is a perfect shortcut and still delivers great flavor.
- Chill Before Serving: Let the salad rest in the fridge for 15–30 minutes before serving to let the flavors fully meld.
- Double the Dressing: It stores well for up to a week and makes a killer dip for veggies or drizzle for grilled meats.
- Roast the Peanuts: Toasting your peanuts in a dry skillet for 2–3 minutes enhances the crunch and gives your salad a deeper, nutty bite.
- Fresh Lime Over Bottled: Always go for fresh lime juice—it adds brightness bottled citrus can’t compete with.