Thai Peanut Chicken Salad

Name: Thai Peanut Chicken Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Thai
Ingredients: 3-4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb); 1 cup bell peppers, chopped; 1 cup carrots, julienned; 1 cucumber, thinly sliced; 1 cup red cabbage, shredded; ½ cup cilantro, chopped; ¼ cup green onions, sliced; ½ cup creamy peanut butter; ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce; 2 tbsp fresh lime juice; 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup; 1 tsp Sriracha sauce (optional)

Posted on April 5, 2025

There’s something magical about a Thai Peanut Chicken Salad that makes your taste buds dance like no one is watching. Imagine tender chicken bathed in a luscious, creamy peanut sauce, complemented by crisp veggies that crunch with every bite. The aroma of fresh herbs wafts through the air, tantalizing you to dive in and savor this delightful dish. Whether you’re enjoying it on a sunny picnic or serving it at a cozy dinner party, this salad is bound to steal the spotlight.

I remember the first time I made this Thai Peanut Chicken Salad for my family. My younger brother, who usually turns his nose up at anything green, inhaled his portion faster than I could say “extra peanuts.” It became an instant hit, and now it’s our go-to meal for gatherings and potlucks. The vibrant colors and bold flavors make it perfect for any occasion, promising an unforgettable flavor experience that leaves everyone craving more.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This Thai Peanut Chicken Salad offers an explosion of flavors and textures that delight every palate
It’s quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings
The colorful ingredients create a stunning presentation that’s sure to impress your guests
Plus, it’s versatile enough to customize based on your preferences or what’s in your fridge

My friends’ reactions were priceless when I served this dish during our last movie night they couldn’t believe how good healthy food could taste.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Use about 3-4 chicken breasts they cook evenly and absorb all those tasty flavors.
Fresh Vegetables: Crisp bell peppers and carrots add color and crunch opt for whatever looks freshest at the market.
Cucumber: Sliced thinly for a refreshing bite choose firm cucumbers for the best texture.
Red Cabbage: Its vibrant color not only enhances visual appeal but also brings a slight sweetness.
Cilantro and Green Onions: Fresh herbs provide a burst of flavor don’t skip these if you can help it.

For the Sauce:

Peanut Butter: Use creamy peanut butter for easy mixing natural varieties offer great flavor without additives.
Soy Sauce: Low-sodium soy sauce helps control saltiness while enhancing umami notes.
Lime Juice: Fresh lime juice brightens the dish bottled juice just doesn’t compare.
Honey or Maple Syrup: A touch of sweetness balances the salty notes beautifully.
Sriracha Sauce (optional): For those who like it spicy, add a dash for that extra kick.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Cook the Chicken: Begin by heating a skillet over medium heat with a drizzle of oil. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper before placing them in the pan. Cook until golden brown on both sides and fully cooked through.

Prepare the Veggies: While the chicken cools slightly, chop all your vegetables into bite-sized pieces. Aim for vibrant colors to make your salad visually appealing.

Make the Dressing: In a bowl, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, lime juice, honey or maple syrup, and sriracha if using. Adjust consistency with water until smooth and pourable.

Toss Everything Together: In a large mixing bowl, combine chopped vegetables and sliced chicken. Drizzle with dressing and toss until everything is evenly coated.

Garnish & Serve: Top your salad with chopped cilantro and green onions. Serve immediately or chill for about 30 minutes to let those flavors meld perfectly together.

This Thai Peanut Chicken Salad is not just a meal it’s an experience bursting with flavor. Enjoy every crunchy bite as you share stories around the table or savor it solo while binge-watching your favorite show.

You Must Know

Thai Peanut Chicken Salad is not just delicious it’s a colorful, crunchy feast for your senses
The combination of savory chicken and creamy peanut sauce creates a delightful harmony that dances on your palate
Plus, it’s perfect for meal prep, keeping well in the fridge for days

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by cooking the chicken first for maximum flavor. While it cooks, chop veggies and whip up the peanut sauce for efficiency and deliciousness.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out chicken for tofu or shrimp. You can also add fruits like mango or avocado for an extra layer of flavor.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. For best quality, enjoy cold rather than reheating.

Chef's Helpful Tips

To keep the salad fresh, add dressing right before serving
Use rotisserie chicken to save time without sacrificing flavor
Experiment with different nuts for crunch and taste variations

There’s something magical about sharing my Thai Peanut Chicken Salad with friends. One time, they raved about it so much that I ended up giving them the recipe talk about a compliment.

FAQ

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, but add dressing just before serving to keep everything fresh.

What can I substitute for peanuts?

Try cashews or sunflower seeds if you have nut allergies.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, just ensure you use gluten-free soy sauce in the dressing.