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Thai Chicken Salad

Thai Chicken Salad

A fresh and vibrant Thai Chicken Salad combining juicy grilled chicken, crisp mixed greens and crunchy vegetables, all tossed in a tangy, aromatic dressing of lime, fish sauce, garlic, chili flakes, and sugar. Perfect as a light lunch or satisfying dinner, this salad balances bold flavors, refreshing textures, and healthy ingredients for an easy, crowd-pleasing meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein

  • 2 chicken breasts, grilled or poached

Vegetables & Herbs

  • 4 cups mixed greens (romaine or butter lettuce)
  • 1 red bell pepper, julienned
  • 1 cucumber, thinly sliced
  • 1 carrot, julienned
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped
  • 2 green onions, chopped

Dressing

  • 3 tablespoons fresh lime juice
  • 2 tablespoons fish sauce
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1/4 teaspoon chili flakes (adjust to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon sugar

Toppings

  • 1/4 cup crushed peanuts (lightly toasted if preferred)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Season chicken breasts lightly with salt and pepper. Grill over medium heat for about 6-7 minutes per side until fully cooked. Let rest for a few minutes, then slice thinly to retain juices.
  2. Chop and Prep Vegetables and Herbs: While chicken cooks, wash and dry mixed greens. Julienne red bell pepper and carrot, thinly slice cucumber, and finely chop cilantro, mint, and green onions.
  3. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together fresh lime juice, fish sauce, minced garlic, chili flakes, and sugar until well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning for acidity and saltiness.
  4. Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, toss the mixed greens, prepared vegetables, and herbs with the dressing. Add sliced chicken on top and gently mix to coat evenly.
  5. Add the Final Crunch: Sprinkle crushed peanuts over the salad just before serving to add texture and a nutty finish.

Notes

  • Use freshly squeezed lime juice for the brightest flavor.
  • Let chicken rest after cooking to keep it juicy and tender.
  • Lightly toast peanuts to enhance flavor and crunch.
  • Adjust sweetness, acidity, and salt in the dressing gradually for balance.
  • Finely chop herbs to release more fragrance and flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: Thai chicken salad, fresh salad, grilled chicken, Thai dressing, healthy salad, gluten free, quick meal