Irresistible Mandarin Chicken Salad Recipe for Summer Bliss

Imagine a bowl filled to the brim with vibrant greens, juicy mandarin slices, and tender, perfectly seasoned chicken. The aroma of citrus mingles with savory notes, creating an irresistible invitation to dive in. This is not just any salad; it’s a Mandarin Chicken Salad that bursts with flavor and texture, promising a delightful culinary experience. For more inspiration, check out this dinner recipes recipe.

Picture yourself on a sunny picnic day, sharing this delicious dish with friends as laughter fills the air. It’s the kind of meal that brings people together, evoking fond memories of shared meals and joyful moments. Trust me, your taste buds are in for a treat that will make you crave more!

I still remember the first time I made this Mandarin Chicken Salad for my family; the smiles on their faces were priceless!

Essential Ingredients

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

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but you can adjust the amount depending on how many people you’re feeding.

• Fresh Spinach: Opt for bright green leaves; they not only taste amazing but also add fantastic color.

• Canned Mandarin Oranges: Choose fruit packed in juice rather than syrup for a fresher taste.

• Red Bell Pepper: Slice it thinly for that sweet crunch that contrasts beautifully with the salad’s other textures.

• Green Onions: Fresh green onions bring a milder onion flavor that complements the dish without overwhelming it.

• Sesame Seeds: Lightly toasted sesame seeds add a nutty crunch and visual appeal.

• Soy Sauce: Use low-sodium soy sauce to control saltiness while still adding depth of flavor.

• Citrus Dressing: A homemade dressing using orange juice and honey ties all the flavors together beautifully.

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

How to Make Mandarin Chicken Salad

Start by cooking your chicken: Season the boneless chicken breasts with salt and pepper. In a skillet over medium heat, cook them until golden brown and fully cooked (about 6-8 minutes per side).

Once cooked, let the chicken rest for about five minutes before slicing it into bite-sized pieces. This resting step allows those flavorful juices to redistribute throughout the meat.

Next up is prepping your salad base: In a large mixing bowl, combine fresh spinach, sliced red bell peppers, chopped green onions, and canned mandarin oranges. The mix of colors already makes it look stunning.

Now it’s time to dress it up: Drizzle your homemade citrus dressing over the salad mixture. Toss everything gently until well-coated; you want every piece enveloped in that sweet tangy goodness.

Finally, add the sliced chicken: Place your sliced chicken atop the salad and sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds for extra crunch and flavor. Serve immediately or chill in the fridge for about 15 minutes if you prefer it cold.

Enjoy every bite of this refreshing Mandarin Chicken Salad—it’s sure to become a favorite at your table!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by marinating the chicken for at least 30 minutes. Grill or sauté until golden brown, then let it rest before slicing. This ensures juicy, flavorful pieces.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out mandarin oranges for fresh grapefruit or add nuts for crunch. Experiment with different dressings to find your perfect flavor combination.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Enjoy cold or reheat gently in a pan for best results.

Sharing this salad recipe always brings back fond memories of summer picnics with friends. We’d dig into bowls of this colorful salad, laughing and enjoying every bite.

FAQ

What can I substitute for mandarin oranges?

You can use clementines or even diced peaches as a delicious alternative.

How can I make this salad vegan?

Swap chicken for chickpeas or tofu and use a plant-based dressing.

What dressing pairs well with Mandarin Chicken Salad?

A light sesame ginger dressing complements the flavors beautifully without overpowering them.

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Mandarin Chicken Salad

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Mandarin Chicken Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish that combines juicy mandarin slices, tender chicken, and fresh spinach, all drizzled with a homemade citrus dressing. Perfect for picnics or family dinners, this salad is not only delicious but also visually stunning. With a delightful balance of sweet and savory flavors, it’s sure to impress at any gathering. Enjoy this quick and easy recipe that promises to become a favorite!

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Ingredients

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• 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb)
• 4 cups fresh spinach
• 1 cup canned mandarin oranges (packed in juice)
• 1 red bell pepper (sliced)
• 2 green onions (chopped)
• 2 tbsp toasted sesame seeds
• 2 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
• 1/4 cup homemade citrus dressing (orange juice & honey)

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Instructions

1. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Cook in a skillet over medium heat for 6-8 minutes per side until golden brown. Allow to rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
2. In a large bowl, combine spinach, sliced red bell pepper, chopped green onions, and mandarin oranges.
3. Drizzle the citrus dressing over the salad mixture and toss gently until evenly coated.
4. Top the salad with sliced chicken and sprinkle with sesame seeds. Serve immediately or chill for a refreshing taste.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Skillet Cooking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bowl (approximately 250g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 12g
• Sodium: 350mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 5g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 70mg