Description
A vibrant and nutritious Asian Chicken Cranberry Salad combining tender cooked chicken, fresh vegetables, dried cranberries, and a flavorful sesame dressing. This salad offers a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and crunchy textures, ideal for a light lunch or dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Salad Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced (Use organic chicken for best flavor.)
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup red cabbage, shredded
- 1/2 cup carrots, grated
- 1/2 cup celery, diced
- 1/2 cup green onions, sliced
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds (Optional, for crunch.)
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped (Fresh cilantro adds flavor.)
Dressing and Seasoning
- 1/2 cup sesame dressing (Adjust amount to taste.)
- Salt and pepper, to taste (Season to enhance flavor.)
Instructions
- Preparation: Gather all ingredients and ensure the chicken is cooked by grilling, baking, or poaching until thoroughly done. Then shred or dice the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
- Combine Vegetables: In a large bowl, add the chopped spinach, shredded red cabbage, grated carrots, diced celery, and sliced green onions, mixing them together gently.
- Add Chicken and Cranberries: Incorporate the shredded chicken and dried cranberries into the vegetable mixture, distributing evenly.
- Add Dressing: Pour the sesame dressing over the salad mixture. Adjust the amount depending on how creamy and flavored you prefer the salad.
- Season: Sprinkle salt and pepper according to taste. Toss the salad gently to make sure every ingredient is coated with the dressing.
- Finish with Almonds and Cilantro: Top the salad with sliced almonds and chopped cilantro for added texture and burst of fresh herb flavor. Toss lightly once more.
- Serve or Chill: Serve the salad immediately for fresh crunch or chill it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to allow the flavors to blend beautifully.
Notes
- For best flavor and texture, use freshly cooked chicken rather than precooked meat.
- If you prefer a nut-free version, omit the sliced almonds.
- The salad tastes great chilled, so prepare in advance and refrigerate before serving.
- Adjust the sesame dressing quantity according to your preference for creaminess and flavor intensity.
- Fresh cilantro adds a distinct aroma but can be omitted if you are not a fan of its taste.
