Name: Thai Crunch Chicken Salad with Peanut Dressing Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: Thai
Ingredients: 4 cups thinly shredded Napa cabbage; 2 cups (about 8 ounces) shredded cooked chicken; 2 cups fried wonton strips, homemade or store-bought; 1 cup chopped fresh cilantro; 2/3 cup chopped fresh mint; 2/3 cup julienned carrots; 2/3 cup julienned English cucumber; 3 scallions, thinly sliced (both white and green parts); 1 large red bell pepper, thinly sliced; 1/2 cup salted peanuts; 1/3 cup natural creamy peanut butter; 3 tablespoons lime juice; 2 teaspoons low-sodium soy sauce; 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger; 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil; 1 large clove garlic, grated; 1/4 cup water (plus extra for thinning if necessary)

Jump to Recipe· 4.1 from 8 reviews

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If you’re craving something fresh, vibrant, and bursting with texture and flavor, the Thai Crunch Chicken Salad with Peanut Dressing Recipe is exactly what you need. This delightful salad masterfully balances crisp Napa cabbage, tender shredded chicken, and a rainbow of crunchy veggies all brought together by a luxuriously creamy peanut dressing that sings with notes of lime, ginger, and garlic. Every bite offers a symphony of contrasts—from the fresh herbs to the toasted peanuts and crispy wonton strips—making it a dish that’s as exciting to eat as it is beautiful to serve.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows various fresh ingredients neatly arranged on a white marbled surface. There is a large half of a pale green lettuce leaf on the bottom left, next to a long green cucumber slice and an orange carrot. Above the carrot is a small white bowl filled with smooth, creamy light brown peanut sauce. To the right of the sauce are three lime wedges and a small clove of garlic, along with a small white spoon holding a little honey. Below and to the right is a fresh pale brown ginger root placed near a bunch of bright green cilantro and mint leaves. On the top right, there is a white bowl packed with chopped green onions. Next to it is a white bowl filled with crunchy golden-brown fried strips. Below these is a white bowl of shelled roasted peanuts and a white bowl filled with shredded cooked chicken that is a mix of white meat and light browns. A washed red bell pepper, halved to show its hollow interior and seeds, sits between the chicken and fresh vegetables. A small white bowl of dark soy sauce is placed near the center. All the ingredients are well spaced with bright colors contrasting against the clean white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering your ingredients for the Thai Crunch Chicken Salad with Peanut Dressing Recipe is a breeze, and each element plays an important role to build layers of texture, flavor, and color that make this salad unforgettable.

4 cups thinly shredded Napa cabbage: The crisp and mild base that adds refreshing crunch and volume.
2 cups shredded cooked chicken: Provides meaty substance and protein to satisfy your hunger.
2 cups fried wonton strips: Adds an irresistible crispy element, easily made at home or bought ready to go.
1 cup chopped fresh cilantro: Brings fresh, citrusy brightness that elevates the salad’s flavor.
2/3 cup chopped fresh mint: Offers a cooling contrast that perfectly complements the tangy dressing.
2/3 cup julienned carrots: Adds natural sweetness and beautiful orange pops of color.
2/3 cup julienned English cucumber: Contributes a juicy, subtle vegetable crunch.
3 scallions, thinly sliced: Both white and green parts lend a mild onion flavor and freshness.
1 large red bell pepper, thinly sliced: Adds vibrant color and a sweet, crisp bite.
1/2 cup salted peanuts: Toasted peanuts provide extra crunch and a salty, nutty depth.
1/3 cup natural creamy peanut butter: The creamy base of the dressing that brings rich nuttiness.
3 tablespoons lime juice: Adds sharp citrus acidity to balance the richness.
2 teaspoons low-sodium soy sauce: Brings umami and a touch of saltiness to the dressing.
1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger: Injects a warm, slightly spicy zing.
1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil: Adds a subtle, smoky aroma while enriching the dressing’s flavor.
1 large clove garlic, grated: Gives that signature garlic punch without overpowering.
1/4 cup water: Helps thin the dressing to the perfect consistency for drizzling.

How to Make Thai Crunch Chicken Salad with Peanut Dressing Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Peanut Dressing

Whisk together creamy peanut butter, fresh lime juice, soy sauce, grated ginger, toasted sesame oil, grated garlic, and water in a bowl until everything is perfectly combined. If the dressing feels too thick, just add an extra tablespoon of water at a time until it’s silky and pourable. This dressing is the heart of the dish, packing a punch of flavor that ties all the ingredients together.

Step 2: Combine the Salad Ingredients

In a large bowl, toss together the shredded Napa cabbage, cooked chicken, crispy wonton strips, cilantro, mint, carrots, cucumber, scallions, red bell pepper, and toasted peanuts. Each ingredient adds its unique texture and freshness, making the salad an exciting mix of crunchy, juicy, and herbal notes.

Step 3: Dress and Toss

Drizzle the vibrant peanut dressing over the salad ingredients, then toss gently to coat every bite with that luscious, nutty goodness. Don’t be shy with the dressing—its bold flavors bring the whole salad to life.

Step 4: Serve Immediately

The Thai Crunch Chicken Salad with Peanut Dressing Recipe is best enjoyed fresh, right after tossing so the wonton strips stay perfectly crisp and the vegetables maintain their crunch. Plate it up, grab a fork, and get ready to savor a salad experience that’s anything but ordinary.

How to Serve Thai Crunch Chicken Salad with Peanut Dressing Recipe

A white bowl filled with a colorful salad featuring three main layers: the bottom layer has mixed green lettuce and chopped cilantro with a fresh green texture; the middle layer contains thin strips of orange carrots, red bell peppers, and green onions; the top layer has shredded white chicken pieces, crunchy peanuts, and is drizzled with a creamy orange-colored dressing. A shiny silver fork and spoon rest in the bowl, slightly buried in the salad. The bowl is placed on a white marbled surface, with a small part of another similar bowl with salad visible at the top right corner. A small dish with leftover dressing is partially seen on the left with an orange cloth nearby. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To elevate your salad even more, sprinkle extra chopped peanuts or fresh herbs like more cilantro and mint on top. You might also add a few thin slices of red chili for a colorful kick if you enjoy a bit of heat. These simple garnishes add layers of flavor and visual appeal, making your Thai Crunch Chicken Salad a feast for the eyes as well as the palate.

Side Dishes

This salad shines as a standalone meal, but pairing it with jasmine rice or light coconut rice makes it even more satisfying. A side of fresh spring rolls or miso soup can complement the salad’s Asian-inspired flavors beautifully, bringing balance and variety to your meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the salad in crisp lettuce cups or cupcake liners for individual portions at a party. You can also arrange the salad on a large platter with the dressing drizzled on top and let guests toss their own servings, making it a beautiful interactive dish. The colorful ingredients naturally make a stunning presentation wherever you choose to serve it.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers of the Thai Crunch Chicken Salad with Peanut Dressing Recipe, transfer the salad and dressing into separate airtight containers to keep textures fresh. Store them in the refrigerator and combine just before serving again to maintain the crispness of the cabbage and wonton strips.

Freezing

This salad is best enjoyed fresh and does not freeze well due to the fresh vegetables and crispy ingredients. Freezing will compromise the crunchy textures and the delicate flavor balance of the peanut dressing, so it’s recommended to enjoy it within a couple of days instead.

Reheating

Since this is a chilled salad, reheating is not recommended. However, if you want warmed chicken on the side, heat it separately and add it fresh to the salad before serving for a delicious contrast.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cabbage?

Absolutely! While Napa cabbage offers a tender crunch that works beautifully, you can substitute it with green cabbage or even a mix of kale and cabbage for a different texture. Just keep in mind that other cabbages might be slightly tougher or more robust in flavor.

How can I make the fried wonton strips at home?

Homemade wonton strips are simple to make by slicing wonton wrappers into thin strips and frying them in hot oil until golden and crisp. Drain on paper towels and season lightly with salt. They add a fresher crunch compared to store-bought versions and are a fun little cooking project.

Is there a way to make the peanut dressing less thick?

If your peanut dressing feels too thick, just whisk in a little more water, 1 tablespoon at a time, until it reaches a smooth, pourable consistency. The lime juice also helps thin and brighten the dressing naturally.

Can this salad be made vegetarian or vegan?

Yes! You can replace the shredded chicken with tofu, tempeh, or extra crunchy veggies. Ensure the soy sauce and peanut butter are vegan-friendly, and it’s just as flavorful and satisfying without meat.

What other nuts can I use instead of peanuts?

If you have a peanut allergy or want a twist, toasted cashews or almonds work wonderfully to provide that crunch and nutty flavor. Just be sure to use creamy nut butter compatible with your substitute for the dressing.

Final Thoughts

The Thai Crunch Chicken Salad with Peanut Dressing Recipe is one of those rare dishes that pleases the senses in every bite—from the crunch and color to the bold fusion of flavors. It’s perfect for a quick lunch, a lively dinner, or even a show-stopping dish at your next gathering. Give it a try and you might find yourself making it again and again, sharing it with everyone you know because once you’ve tasted this salad, it’s simply unforgettable.

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Thai Crunch Chicken Salad with Peanut Dressing Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need