Thai Chicken Salad

Name: Thai Chicken Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Thai
Ingredients: 3 boneless skinless chicken breasts (450g); 1 cup fresh cilantro, chopped; 1 medium red bell pepper, diced; 2 medium carrots, shredded; 1 medium cucumber, diced; 1/4 cup fresh lime juice (about 2 limes); 2 tbsp fish sauce; 1 tbsp brown sugar; 1/4 cup toasted peanuts, roughly chopped; Chili flakes (optional)

Published: March 24, 2025

by mimi

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This Thai chicken salad is incredibly easy to whip up, making meal prep a breeze
Its bold flavors and textures create an unforgettable taste experience
The colorful presentation will impress anyone at your table
Enjoy it as a light lunch or dinner; it’s versatile enough to suit any occasion!

Every time I serve this dish, my family’s reactions range from surprised delight to utter bliss; it’s become a staple at our gatherings.

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

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

Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts: Typically 3-4 breasts work well; adjust based on the number of servings you need.
Fresh Cilantro: Choose vibrant green leaves for maximum flavor; it’s essential to authentic Thai taste.
Red Bell Pepper: Adds sweetness and crunch; look for firm peppers without blemishes.
Carrots: Use fresh carrots; they provide both color and crunch to the dish.
Cucumber: Select firm cucumbers for the best texture; they add refreshing coolness.
Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed lime juice brightens the flavors; bottled juice just won’t cut it.
Fish Sauce: A little goes a long way; it adds that signature umami flavor typical in Thai cuisine.
Sugar: Balances the acidity of lime and fish sauce; use brown sugar for depth of flavor.
Peanuts: Toasted peanuts add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor; chop them roughly before adding.
Chili Flakes (optional): For those who enjoy some heat; adjust according to your spice preference.

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

Let’s Make it Together

Cook the Chicken: Start by bringing water to a gentle boil in a pot. Add the boneless skinless chicken breasts and simmer until cooked through, about 15-20 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the meat is no longer pink inside.

Shred the Chicken : Once cooled slightly, shred the chicken using two forks or your hands—make sure not to burn yourself! This creates tender pieces ready to absorb all those tasty flavors.

Chop Your Veggies : While shredding, chop your red bell pepper, cucumber, and carrots into bite-sized pieces. The goal is uniformity so every bite contains a mix of colors and textures.

Prepare the Dressing : In a bowl, whisk together fresh lime juice, fish sauce, sugar, and optional chili flakes until well-combined. Taste as you go—adjust sweetness or acidity based on your preference.

Toss Everything Together : In a large bowl, combine shredded chicken with chopped veggies and peanuts. Drizzle with dressing and toss gently until everything is coated in that zesty goodness.

Serve & Enjoy : Plate your Thai chicken salad beautifully—I recommend serving it chilled! Garnish with extra cilantro or crushed peanuts for that professional touch before digging in.

This delightful dish not only tantalizes your taste buds but also offers a burst of colors that makes any table come alive! Whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a quiet night in, this Thai chicken salad will surely be a hit.

You Must Know

This Thai chicken salad is not just a meal; it’s a tantalizing explosion of flavors and textures that excite your taste buds
Packed with fresh veggies, zesty dressing, and tender chicken, it’s perfect for lunch or dinner
Plus, it’s super easy to whip up in no time!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by marinating the chicken in a mix of soy sauce and lime juice for at least 30 minutes. While it marinates, chop your vegetables and prepare the salad dressing. Grill or pan-cook the chicken until golden brown, then toss everything together for optimal flavor.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap the vegetables based on what you have in your fridge. Consider adding avocado for creaminess, or peanuts for an extra crunch. You can also play around with different herbs like cilantro or mint to enhance freshness.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To enjoy again, simply toss with a little extra dressing before serving to refresh those vibrant flavors.

Chef's Helpful Tips

For a truly memorable Thai chicken salad, use fresh herbs for vibrant flavors
Always let cooked chicken rest before slicing to keep it juicy
Don’t skimp on the dressing; it brings all the ingredients together beautifully!

Sharing this dish at my last picnic turned out to be a hit! Everyone wanted the recipe, and I felt like a culinary rockstar.

FAQs

FAQ

What can I substitute for chicken in this salad?

You can use tofu or shrimp as alternative protein options for this salad.

How long does the dressing last?

Homemade dressing lasts about one week when stored properly in the fridge.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, prep ingredients ahead but add dressing right before serving for freshness.