Introduction
This vibrant and delicious teriyaki chicken salad combines succulent grilled chicken marinated in a savory teriyaki sauce, crisp fresh vegetables, and a creamy homemade peanut dressing. It’s a perfect meal for a warm day or when you crave something nutritious and satisfying. Enjoy this delightful salad with bold flavors and textures that will tantalize your taste buds.
Detailed Ingredients
For the Chicken:
– 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 1 cup teriyaki sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1½ tablespoons canola oil
– Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the Salad:
– 1 head romaine lettuce, roughly chopped
– 2 cups shredded red cabbage
– 1½ cups julienned carrots
– 1 cup roasted cashews
– ½ cup chopped fresh cilantro leaves
– ½ cup thinly sliced green onions
– 1 cup crispy chow mein noodles
– 1 (15-ounce) can mandarin orange segments, drained
For the Peanut Dressing:
– ⅓ cup creamy peanut butter
– 2 tablespoons reduced sodium soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– 1 teaspoon Sriracha, or more to taste
– 2 tablespoons warm water, or more as needed
Prep Time
2 hours (for marinating the chicken)
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes
Yield: Serves 4-6
This chicken salad recipe is not only easy to prepare but also features a great balance of flavors and textures. The marinated chicken provides a rich taste, while the fresh veggies and crunchy toppings keep each bite exciting. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a daytime lunch, this dish is sure to please anyone at the table. Enjoy!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Marinate the Chicken
In a gallon-size Ziploc bag or large bowl, combine the chicken thighs and teriyaki sauce. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, turning occasionally.
Prepare the Peanut Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the peanut butter, soy sauce, ginger, rice vinegar, honey, sesame oil, Sriracha, and warm water until smooth. If the dressing is too thick, add more water as needed to achieve the desired consistency.
Cook the Chicken
Preheat a grill to medium heat and lightly oil the grates. Remove the chicken from the marinade, shaking off excess, and discard the marinade. Brush the chicken with canola oil and season with salt and pepper. Place the chicken on the grill and cook, turning occasionally, until fully cooked through, about 10 minutes. Remove from the grill and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing into bite-sized pieces.
Assemble the Salad
In a large bowl, combine the chopped romaine lettuce, shredded red cabbage, julienned carrots, roasted cashews, chopped cilantro, sliced green onions, crispy chow mein noodles, and mandarin orange segments. Add the sliced chicken to the salad mixture. Drizzle the peanut dressing over the salad and gently toss to combine.
Serve
Serve immediately, garnished with additional cashews and cilantro if desired.
Notes
Chicken Marinade Time
For best flavor, consider marinating the chicken overnight.
Cooking Method
If a grill is not available, the chicken can also be cooked in a skillet or baked in the oven.
Peanut Dressing Consistency
Adjust the thickness of the peanut dressing by adding warm water gradually until the desired consistency is achieved.
Salad Variations
Feel free to add additional vegetables or toppings according to your preference.
Storage
Leftover salad can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days; however, the crispy noodles may lose their crunch.
Cook Techniques
Marinating
Marinating the chicken in teriyaki sauce enhances its flavor and tenderness. Aim to marinate for at least 2 hours for the best results.
Grilling
Preheat the grill to medium heat and ensure the grates are lightly oiled to prevent sticking. Grill the chicken for about 10 minutes, turning it periodically to ensure even cooking.
Preparing Peanut Dressing
Whisk together the peanut butter and other ingredients until smooth. Adjust the consistency with warm water as needed.
Assembling the Salad
Combine all salad ingredients in a large bowl. Add the sliced chicken and drizzle with peanut dressing. Toss gently to ensure even coating.
FAQ
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, you can substitute boneless, skinless chicken breasts, but be mindful that they may require a shorter cooking time.
Can I make the salad ahead of time?
While the salad can be prepared ahead, it’s best to wait to add the dressing and crispy noodles until just before serving for optimal freshness and crunch.
What can I substitute for peanut butter in the dressing?
You can use almond butter or sunflower seed butter as an alternative, though the flavor will vary.
Is it necessary to use fresh ginger?
Fresh ginger adds a unique flavor, but ground ginger can be used as a substitute if fresh is not available.
How can I make this dish spicier?
Add more Sriracha or include chopped fresh chili peppers in the salad or dressing to increase the heat level.
Conclusion
This chicken salad with peanut dressing is a delightful combination of flavors and textures, making it a satisfying meal option. The marinated chicken adds a savory element, while the fresh vegetables and crunchy toppings bring a refreshing crunch. The creamy peanut dressing ties everything together beautifully, offering a tasty and balanced dish that is perfect for any occasion.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Grilled Salmon Salad
Try replacing the chicken with grilled salmon for a rich, omega-3 packed version. Pair with a sesame dressing for added flavor.
Quinoa and Black Bean Salad
Incorporate cooked quinoa and black beans for a hearty vegetarian option. This adds protein and fiber while maintaining an exciting texture.
Asian Noodle Salad
Mix in cold soba noodles and additional vegetables like bell peppers and snap peas for an Asian-inspired noodle salad.
Fruit and Nut Salad
Add seasonal fruits such as strawberries or mango along with a variety of nuts to enhance sweetness and crunch, offering a different twist on the classic salad.
Spicy Tuna Tartare
Substitute the chicken with spicy tuna tartare on a bed of the salad for a modern, sushi-inspired creation.
Teriyaki Shrimp Salad
Use grilled or sautéed shrimp marinated in teriyaki sauce as a protein alternative, accentuating the Asian flavors of the dish.
Veggie-Only Salad
For a lighter, vegetarian-friendly meal, create a salad solely based on fresh vegetables and a tangy ginger-lime dressing.
