Name: Thai Chicken Salad with Peanut Dressing Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Thai
Ingredients: 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts; 1/3 cup soy sauce; 1 inch fresh ginger, peeled and minced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; ½ teaspoon minced hot pepper; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 2 tablespoons vinegar; 1 tablespoon sugar; 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice; 1 tablespoon olive oil; ½ teaspoon fish sauce; 1/4 cup peanut butter; ¼ cup water; 4 cups romaine lettuce; 1 cup cooked and shelled edamame; 1 cup shredded cabbage; 1 cup shredded carrots; ¾ cup wonton crisps or chow mein noodles

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If you are craving a vibrant, crunchy, and flavor-packed meal, this Thai Chicken Salad with Peanut Dressing Recipe is your ultimate go-to. Combining juicy grilled soy ginger chicken with fresh vegetables and a luscious, creamy peanut dressing, this salad brings together the perfect balance of savory, tangy, and nutty flavors. Whether you want a light lunch or an impressive dish to share with friends, this recipe delivers freshness and excitement in every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a round white bowl filled almost to the top with a smooth light brown sauce or dressing. A silver spoon rests inside the bowl with its handle leaning on the edge. Behind the bowl, there is a bright purple half cabbage with white veins and some white cabbage in the background, slightly out of focus. In the front right corner, there is a sliced red chili pepper with seeds visible inside. All items are placed on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Don’t be intimidated by the list; these simple ingredients each play a crucial role in creating layers of flavor, texture, and color that make this dish truly stand out.

Boneless skinless chicken breasts: The star protein that soaks up the marinade beautifully for juicy, flavorful bites.
Soy sauce: Adds umami depth and saltiness to both the chicken and peanut dressing.
Fresh ginger: Brightens the marinade with a zesty, slightly spicy kick.
Garlic: Infuses the dressing with its aromatic and savory punch.
Minced hot pepper: Adds a hint of heat to wake up your taste buds.
Vinegar: Brings acidity to balance the rich peanut butter in the dressing.
Sugar: Helps round out flavors with a touch of sweetness.
Fresh lime juice: Offers a fresh citrus zing that brightens the entire dish.
Olive oil: Provides smoothness and helps emulsify the dressing.
Fish sauce: Delivers authentic Thai salty depth and complexity.
Peanut butter: The creamy, nutty base that makes this dressing uniquely indulgent.
Water: Used to thin out the dressing to a perfect, drizzling consistency.
Romaine lettuce: Crisp and refreshing, the foundation of the salad’s crunch.
Edamame: Adds protein and a pop of vibrant green color.
Shredded cabbage: Offers texture and slightly sweet earthiness.
Shredded carrots: Bright hue and natural sweetness brighten each forkful.
Wonton crisps or chow mein noodles: The delightful crunch that finishes off the salad with a fun contrast.

How to Make Thai Chicken Salad with Peanut Dressing Recipe

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by whisking together the soy sauce and freshly minced ginger in a small bowl to form a beautifully aromatic marinade. Pop your boneless skinless chicken breasts into this mixture, ensuring they are well coated. Marinate in the fridge for about one hour—this step infuses the chicken with deep, savory, and slightly spicy flavors, making every bite juicy and packed with zest.

Step 2: Grill the Chicken to Perfection

Fire up your grill to medium-high heat, preparing for direct grilling. Place the marinated chicken breasts directly over the heat, grilling for about 5 to 8 minutes on each side. You’re looking for cooked-through chicken with clear juices, boasting those gorgeous grill marks that add a subtle smoky note to complement the ginger and soy marinade.

Step 3: Whisk Together the Peanut Dressing

While the chicken is grilling, make your star dressing. In a small bowl, combine minced garlic, hot pepper, soy sauce, vinegar, sugar, lime juice, olive oil, and fish sauce. Whisk until these ingredients mingle smoothly, then add your peanut butter and water. Whisk again until the dressing is creamy, luscious, and utterly irresistible. This dressing is the heart of the Thai Chicken Salad with Peanut Dressing Recipe’s charm, marrying savory, tangy, sweet, and nutty notes.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad

Now for the fun part! Layer your crisp romaine lettuce, cooked and shelled edamame, shredded cabbage, and shredded carrots in your serving bowls or on a platter. Slice your grilled chicken strips and arrange them on top. Finally, drizzle generously with the peanut dressing, ensuring every bite gets that delicious, creamy coating paired with fresh veggies and crunchy wonton crisps or chow mein noodles.

How to Serve Thai Chicken Salad with Peanut Dressing Recipe

A white bowl filled with layers of food on a white marbled surface, starting with green lettuce at the bottom, topped with sliced cooked chicken pieces, thin orange carrot strips, and shredded purple cabbage on one side. A woman's hand is pouring thick brown sauce smoothly over the top layers, adding a glossy texture. Some small crunchy strips are sprinkled on top of the chicken. There is a blurred purple cabbage and some nuts in the background. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Sprinkle some chopped peanuts or fresh cilantro over the salad for an extra layer of texture and color. A few lime wedges on the side let everyone brighten their bites with tangy citrus as they please, elevating the freshness factor.

Side Dishes

This salad works beautifully as a standalone meal, but for a heartier spread, serve it alongside steamed jasmine rice or an aromatic coconut rice. A light, crisp cucumber salad or simple spring rolls make perfect companions without overpowering the flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

For a stunning presentation, build your salad in individual mason jars for a picnic or lunch box favorite. Alternatively, use vibrant bowls or leaf your salad onto large banana leaves for an authentic, rustic vibe that will wow guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers, store the salad components separately in airtight containers. Keep the grilled chicken refrigerated and cover the salad veggies with a damp paper towel to preserve freshness, ideally consuming within 2 days.

Freezing

This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze the marinated chicken before grilling. Seal it tightly in a freezer-safe bag for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before grilling for the freshest flavor and texture.

Reheating

Gently reheat grilled chicken in a skillet or microwave until warmed through. Avoid reheating the salad greens or peanut dressing, as they are best served fresh to maintain their crispness and vibrant flavors.

FAQs

Can I use peanut butter alternatives in this recipe?

Absolutely! If you have allergies or prefer a different flavor, almond butter or cashew butter can substitute well, though it will slightly alter the taste of the dressing.

What type of chicken works best for this salad?

Boneless skinless chicken breasts are ideal because they absorb the marinade well and grill evenly, but chicken thighs also work if you want a juicier, more flavorful option.

Is this salad spicy?

The recipe includes minced hot pepper in the dressing, which gives a gentle heat. You can easily adjust or omit this ingredient depending on your spice tolerance.

Can I prepare this salad vegetarian or vegan?

Yes! Swap grilled chicken for tofu or tempeh, and replace fish sauce with soy sauce or tamari to keep it plant-based without losing any flavor complexity.

How long can I keep the peanut dressing?

Store leftover dressing in a sealed container in the fridge for up to one week. Give it a good stir before using, as natural separation may occur.

Final Thoughts

Trust me, once you try this Thai Chicken Salad with Peanut Dressing Recipe, it will become a beloved staple in your kitchen. The interplay of fresh veggies, juicy grilled chicken, and that creamy, tangy peanut dressing is pure magic. It’s quick to make, bursting with vibrant flavors, and perfect for any occasion. So grab those ingredients and treat yourself to an unforgettable salad experience!