Asian Chicken Cranberry Salad Recipe
If you are craving a vibrant, fresh, and irresistibly flavorful dish that bursts with delightful textures and tastes, this Asian Chicken Cranberry Salad Recipe is calling your name. It masterfully combines tender rotisserie chicken, crunchy toasted almonds, sweet dried cranberries, and zesty mandarin oranges, all brought together with a heavenly homemade dressing that balances savory, sweet, and tangy notes beautifully. This salad is perfect for quick lunches, potlucks, or anytime you want something refreshing and satisfying in just 15 minutes.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients for this Asian Chicken Cranberry Salad Recipe is easier than you think. Each component plays a vital role: the crunchy coleslaw mix and nuts add texture, the dried fruits bring a burst of sweetness, and the dressing delivers depth and balance. Simple, accessible, and fresh, these ingredients will make assembling the salad a joy.
- 2 small bags of coleslaw mix (about 12 cups): The crunchy base that adds freshness and color.
- 4 cups rotisserie chicken (finely chopped): Tender protein that’s effortless and flavorful.
- 1 ½ cups toasted sliced almonds (or cashews): Adds a satisfying crunch and nutty flavor.
- 1 ½ cup dried cranberries: Sweet-tart bursts that brighten every bite; Orange Cranberries from Trader Joe’s are a lovely choice.
- ¾ cup red onion (finely diced): Provides a sharp, zesty contrast.
- 1 cup sesame sticks (optional): Found in the bulk aisle, these add an addictive crispy element.
- 1 ½ cups chopped cilantro: Freshness that ties the flavors together beautifully.
- 1-2 small cans mandarin oranges (drained): Adds juicy bursts of citrusy sweetness.
- ¼ cup black sesame seeds (or regular sesame seeds): For a subtle nutty crunch and visual appeal.
- 1 cup extra-virgin olive oil: Base for the dressing, lending smooth richness.
- ½ cup balsamic vinegar (regular or white): Adds a tangy depth that lifts the salad.
- 4 Tbsp. low-sodium soy sauce: Brings savory umami that complements the chicken and nuts.
- 3-4 cloves garlic (chopped): Essential for that aromatic kick.
- 4 Tbsp. honey or brown sugar: Balances acidity with natural sweetness.
- 4 Tbsp. minced ginger: Adds warmth and a bit of zing.
- 2 tsp. toasted sesame oil: Finishing touch for that unmistakable Asian flavor.
How to Make Asian Chicken Cranberry Salad Recipe
Step 1: Combine the Salad Base
Start by layering the crunchy coleslaw mix into a large mixing bowl. Sprinkle in the finely chopped rotisserie chicken, toasted almonds or cashews (or a mix of both for extra texture), dried cranberries, red onion, and sesame seeds. If you’re feeling adventurous or want an extra crunch, add those sesame sticks. Toss in the chopped cilantro for that fresh burst of herby goodness. Lastly, gently fold in the mandarin oranges, which bring a juicy sweetness that truly brightens the salad.
Step 2: Prepare the Dressing
In a blender, combine the extra-virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, soy sauce, chopped garlic, honey (or brown sugar), minced ginger, and toasted sesame oil. Add about three tablespoons of water to help everything come together smoothly. Blend until the dressing becomes creamy and well emulsified. This dressing is the magic that ties all the salad ingredients into one harmonious dish.
Step 3: Toss and Serve
Pour the freshly blended dressing over the salad mixture. How much you add depends on how moist or lightly dressed you prefer your salad. Use a gentle tossing motion to evenly coat all ingredients without bruising the delicate elements like the mandarin oranges. Once everything is beautifully mingled, your Asian Chicken Cranberry Salad Recipe is ready to be enjoyed.
How to Serve Asian Chicken Cranberry Salad Recipe
Garnishes
For a finishing touch, sprinkle some extra toasted sesame seeds or a few more toasted nuts on top. You can even add thinly sliced green onions or a scatter of fresh cilantro leaves. These garnishes not only enhance the look but bring an extra layer of flavor and texture, making every bite feel special.
Side Dishes
This salad pairs wonderfully with light and simple side dishes. Steamed jasmine rice, crisp vegetable spring rolls, or a refreshing cucumber salad are excellent companions. Its bright and balanced flavors also work as a standalone meal if you’re looking for something quick but substantial.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress guests or shake up your lunch routine? Serve this Asian Chicken Cranberry Salad Recipe in crispy lettuce cups or crunchy wonton bowls. You could even turn it into a wrap filling using large collard greens or tortillas. These creative presentations make the salad not just delicious but visually exciting.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This salad keeps well for a day or two when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. For best texture, it’s a good idea to keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve, especially if you want to avoid sogginess of the coleslaw mix and nuts.
Freezing
Due to the fresh produce and delicate ingredients like mandarin oranges and coleslaw mix, freezing this Asian Chicken Cranberry Salad Recipe is not recommended. It’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated for short-term storage.
Reheating
Since this salad is meant to be served cold or at room temperature, reheating is not necessary. If you want, you can gently warm the chicken separately and combine it with the chilled salad for a slightly different experience.
FAQs
Can I use fresh cabbage instead of coleslaw mix?
Absolutely! Fresh cabbage, either green or purple, works just as well. Just finely shred it to mimic the texture of coleslaw mix for the best results.
Is there a substitute for mandarin oranges if I can’t find them?
Yes, canned pineapple chunks or fresh orange segments make excellent alternatives that keep the citrusy sweetness alive in the salad.
Can I make this salad vegan?
Definitely. Replace the rotisserie chicken with chickpeas or tofu and swap honey for maple syrup or agave for a plant-based version full of flavor.
How long will the salad stay fresh in the fridge?
When stored properly in an airtight container, the salad will stay fresh for up to 2 days. Dressing separately is recommended for optimal freshness.
What can I use if I don’t have a blender for the dressing?
You can whisk the dressing ingredients vigorously by hand until well combined. It might not be as smooth, but the flavors will still shine wonderfully.
Final Thoughts
Trust me when I say this Asian Chicken Cranberry Salad Recipe will quickly become a favorite go-to for busy days and entertaining alike. Its vibrant combination of textures and perfectly balanced flavors create a bowl of pure delight. Give it a try, and I promise you’ll find yourself coming back for seconds every time.
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Asian Chicken Cranberry Salad Recipe
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings 1x
Description
A vibrant and refreshing Asian Chicken Cranberry Salad combining crunchy coleslaw mix, tender rotisserie chicken, toasted nuts, and a flavorful homemade sesame-ginger dressing. This quick and easy salad offers a delightful mix of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors perfect for a light lunch or dinner.
Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- 2 small bags of coleslaw mix (about 12 cups)
- 4 cups rotisserie chicken (finely chopped)
- 1 ½ cups toasted sliced almonds (or cashews)
- 1 ½ cups dried cranberries (such as Orange Cranberries)
- ¾ cup red onion (finely diced)
- 1 cup sesame sticks (optional)
- 1 ½ cups chopped cilantro
- 1–2 small cans mandarin oranges (drained, optional)
- ¼ cup black sesame seeds (or regular sesame seeds)
Dressing Ingredients
- 1 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- ½ cup balsamic vinegar (regular or white)
- 4 Tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
- 3–4 cloves garlic (chopped)
- 4 Tbsp honey or brown sugar
- 4 Tbsp minced ginger
- 2 tsp toasted sesame oil
- 3 Tbsp water
Instructions
- Assemble Salad: In a large bowl, layer the coleslaw mix with finely chopped rotisserie chicken, toasted almonds or cashews, dried cranberries, finely diced red onion, sesame seeds, sesame sticks if using, and fresh chopped cilantro. Add the drained mandarin oranges if desired for an extra burst of sweetness.
- Prepare Dressing: In a blender, combine extra-virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, low-sodium soy sauce, chopped garlic, honey or brown sugar, minced ginger, toasted sesame oil, and 3 tablespoons of water. Blend until the mixture is smooth and emulsified, creating a flavorful sesame-ginger dressing.
- Toss and Serve: Lightly pour the prepared dressing over the salad mixture according to your preferred moisture level. Gently toss all ingredients to evenly coat with the dressing. Serve immediately or chill for a short time to let flavors meld.
Notes
- To toast sliced almonds or cashews, place them in a dry skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently until golden and fragrant.
- Sesame sticks add a nice crunch but can be omitted if unavailable or for a gluten-free version.
- For a vegan version, substitute chicken with chickpeas or tofu and use maple syrup instead of honey.
- Adjust dressing quantity to suit taste and preferred salad moistness.
- Leftovers can be stored refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 2 days; add mandarin oranges fresh if possible to avoid sogginess.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Asian-inspired
