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Thai Chopped Salad with Chicken


  • Author: Martha
  • Total Time: 30 minutes

Description

A Thai chopped salad with chicken is a vibrant and crunchy dish bursting with fresh, bold flavors. The salad is made with a mix of crisp vegetables like cabbage, carrots, bell peppers, and cucumber, along with fragrant herbs like cilantro and mint, creating a refreshing base. Grilled or shredded chicken is added for protein, bringing a savory depth to the salad. The dish is often dressed with a zesty Thai-inspired dressing made from ingredients like lime juice, fish sauce, garlic, ginger, and a touch of sweetness from honey or sugar, offering a perfect balance of tangy, salty, and slightly sweet flavors. Chopped peanuts and a sprinkle of chili flakes add a delightful crunch and a hint of heat, making this salad a satisfying, light, and flavorful meal.


Ingredients

Scale

Here’s what you’ll need to make this vibrant Thai Chopped Salad with Chicken:

For the Salad:

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (Halal certified)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 4 cups shredded cabbage (preferably Napa cabbage)
  • 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
  • 1 yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced
  • 1 medium cucumber, thinly sliced
  • 1 medium carrot, shredded
  • ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • ¼ cup green onions, chopped
  • ½ cup roasted peanuts, chopped (optional)
  • 1 avocado, diced (optional)

For the Dressing:

  • 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
  • 1 tablespoon fish sauce (ensure Halal-certified)
  • 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce (ensure Halal-certified)
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon chili paste or sriracha (adjust to your spice preference)
  • 1 tablespoon natural peanut butter (smooth or crunchy)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Ingredient Highlights

  • Chicken Breast: Lean protein that makes the salad filling and nutritious. Choose Halal-certified chicken for a truly Halal-friendly recipe.
  • Cabbage: Provides a crunchy base that is high in fiber, adding bulk to the salad and making it satisfying without being too heavy.
  • Bell Peppers: Sweet, crisp bell peppers bring both color and nutrients like vitamin C to the salad.
  • Carrots: Adds a slightly sweet flavor and plenty of beta-carotene, contributing to the salad’s vibrant color.
  • Peanuts: For a crunchy texture and extra flavor, chopped roasted peanuts are a great addition. You can skip them if you prefer a nut-free version.
  • Peanut Butter: Used in the dressing, peanut butter contributes to a creamy texture while adding richness and flavor.

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to create the perfect Thai Chopped Salad with Chicken:

Prepare the Chicken:

  1. Season and Cook the Chicken: Start by seasoning your chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil. Heat a grill pan or regular pan over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for 6-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Remove from the pan and set aside to rest for a few minutes before slicing it thinly against the grain.

Prepare the Salad Ingredients:

  1. Shred the Cabbage: While the chicken is cooking, shred the cabbage using a sharp knife or mandoline slicer. Place it in a large mixing bowl.
  2. Slice the Vegetables: Thinly slice the red and yellow bell peppers, cucumber, and carrots. Add them to the bowl with the shredded cabbage.
  3. Prepare Fresh Herbs and Toppings: Chop the cilantro and green onions, then add them to the salad. If using, chop the roasted peanuts and avocado for garnish.

Make the Dressing:

  1. Combine the Dressing Ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, fish sauce, honey (or maple syrup), soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, and chili paste or sriracha. Add the peanut butter and whisk until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the sweetness or spice levels according to your preference by adding more honey or chili paste.

Assemble the Salad:

  1. Toss the Salad: Add the sliced chicken to the salad mixture, then pour the dressing over the top. Toss everything together until the chicken and vegetables are well-coated with the flavorful dressing.
  2. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle the chopped peanuts (if using) and diced avocado on top. Serve immediately, and enjoy your delicious Thai Chopped Salad with Chicken!
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4-6
  • Calories: 350-400 kcal
  • Fat: 18g
  • Carbohydrates: 25g
  • Protein: 25g