Asian Chicken Cranberry Salad
This Asian Chicken Cranberry Salad is a quick, healthy, and delicious meal option. It combines shredded chicken, fresh greens, crunchy almonds, and sweet dried cranberries, creating a perfect balance of flavors and textures. The tangy, slightly sweet dressing with a hint of sesame is the ideal finishing touch.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast shredded
- 4 cups mixed greens
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1 cup shredded red cabbage
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/2 cup sliced almonds or chopped peanuts
- 1/4 cup green onions chopped
- 1/4 cup sesame seeds
- 3 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
- 1 tsp fresh ginger grated
- 1 clove garlic minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Chicken: If you’re using fresh chicken, cook it until it’s tender and then shred or dice it into bite-sized pieces. Rotisserie chicken is a convenient option that saves time and effort. Once shredded, store the chicken in an airtight container in the fridge.
- Chop the Vegetables: Finely chop your red cabbage and shred some carrots for a nice crunch. These veggies add a vibrant color and texture to the salad. Store them in separate airtight containers to keep them fresh and crisp.
- Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, honey, grated ginger, and minced garlic. This dressing is the star of the show, adding a tangy, slightly sweet, and aromatic touch to the salad. Store the dressing in a small jar or airtight container in the fridge.
- Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add mixed greens, shredded chicken, dried cranberries, shredded carrots, chopped green onions, and sliced almonds. Gently toss everything together to mix evenly.
- Add the Dressing: Pour the prepared dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly. Be careful not to over-mix, as you want to keep the ingredients intact.
- Garnish: Sprinkle sesame seeds on top before serving for added crunch and visual appeal.
- Taste and Adjust: Give your salad a taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. You might want to add a bit more salt, pepper, or honey to suit your taste.
- Serve: Transfer the salad to a serving dish or individual plates. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs or a drizzle of extra dressing for a finishing touch.
- Enjoy: Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious Asian Chicken Cranberry Salad! It’s perfect for a light lunch, a healthy dinner, or even a nutritious snack.
Notes
Nutritional Information per Serving
Here’s the detailed nutritional information for the Asian Chicken Cranberry Salad, based on the recipe and variations discussed:
Per Serving (4 servings)
Calories: 420 kcal
Protein: 30g
Carbohydrates: 28g
Fat: 20g
Fiber: 6g Breakdown of Key Nutrients Chicken: Provides lean protein, essential for muscle growth and repair. It’s also rich in vitamins B6 and B12, which support energy metabolism. Cranberries: Full of antioxidants, cranberries help support urinary tract health and boost the immune system. Mixed Greens: Packed with fiber and essential vitamins A, C, and K, mixed greens provide vital nutrients that support immune health, skin health, and overall well-being. Carrots: A great source of beta-carotene, which is converted into vitamin A in the body, contributing to healthy vision and skin. Almonds: Rich in healthy fats, fiber, and protein, almonds support heart health and aid in weight management. Mandarin Oranges: These citrus fruits are bursting with vitamin C, which supports the immune system and helps with the absorption of iron. Cilantro: Known for its detoxifying properties, cilantro is a refreshing herb that also provides antioxidants and anti-inflammatory benefits. Dressing Nutritional Contribution Soy Sauce: Provides essential minerals and adds a savory flavor.
Rice Vinegar: Adds a tangy flavor without overwhelming the dressing.
Sesame Oil: Rich in monounsaturated fats, beneficial for heart health.
Honey or Maple Syrup: Adds a bit of sweetness to round out the dressing.
Ginger and Garlic: Known for their medicinal properties, offering immune-boosting benefits. This salad is a balanced meal in itself, offering a range of nutrients essential for a healthy body. Its combination of proteins, healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals makes it an excellent choice for those seeking a nutritious yet delicious meal option.
Calories: 420 kcal
Protein: 30g
Carbohydrates: 28g
Fat: 20g
Fiber: 6g Breakdown of Key Nutrients Chicken: Provides lean protein, essential for muscle growth and repair. It’s also rich in vitamins B6 and B12, which support energy metabolism. Cranberries: Full of antioxidants, cranberries help support urinary tract health and boost the immune system. Mixed Greens: Packed with fiber and essential vitamins A, C, and K, mixed greens provide vital nutrients that support immune health, skin health, and overall well-being. Carrots: A great source of beta-carotene, which is converted into vitamin A in the body, contributing to healthy vision and skin. Almonds: Rich in healthy fats, fiber, and protein, almonds support heart health and aid in weight management. Mandarin Oranges: These citrus fruits are bursting with vitamin C, which supports the immune system and helps with the absorption of iron. Cilantro: Known for its detoxifying properties, cilantro is a refreshing herb that also provides antioxidants and anti-inflammatory benefits. Dressing Nutritional Contribution Soy Sauce: Provides essential minerals and adds a savory flavor.
Rice Vinegar: Adds a tangy flavor without overwhelming the dressing.
Sesame Oil: Rich in monounsaturated fats, beneficial for heart health.
Honey or Maple Syrup: Adds a bit of sweetness to round out the dressing.
Ginger and Garlic: Known for their medicinal properties, offering immune-boosting benefits. This salad is a balanced meal in itself, offering a range of nutrients essential for a healthy body. Its combination of proteins, healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals makes it an excellent choice for those seeking a nutritious yet delicious meal option.