Thai Chicken Salad Recipe
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Thai chicken salad is the perfect blend of fresh, vibrant flavors and satisfying textures! This recipe brings together tender rotisserie chicken, sweet mango, and crisp carrots, all tossed in a flavorful Thai-inspired dressing made with soy sauce, lime juice, and a hint of brown sugar. Light yet filling, this Thai chicken salad is a refreshing choice for a main dish that you’ll want to make again and again.
This Thai chicken salad recipe makes a very tasty lunch or light dinner. Chopped mango, green onions and cilantro give this salad a memorable flavor, and the Thai dressing of soy sauce, lime juice and brown sugar makes you want to eat more and more.
This Thai chicken salad is really healthy – not only it is low in calories, but it is also full of nutritious greens – lettuce, carrot, cilantro, green onions and mango. Chicken gives it a lean protein that keeps you full, and the unique ingredient mix make this salad so full of flavor! Thai chicken salad is an excellent main dish salad that you’ll want to make again and again.
Why You’ll Love Thai Chicken Salad
- Bursting with Fresh Flavors: The combination of mango, cilantro, and green onions brings a refreshing and unique taste to every bite, perfect for those who love vibrant, fresh flavors in their meals.
- Healthy and Filling: Packed with greens, lean protein from chicken, and nutrient-rich veggies, this salad is both low in calories and filling, making it a balanced option for lunch or dinner.
- Quick and Easy to Make: With only 10 minutes of prep time, you can enjoy a delicious meal without spending too much time in the kitchen. Perfect for busy days!
- Great for Meal Prep: You can easily make a large batch and keep it fresh by storing the salad and dressing separately, making it an ideal option for meal prepping.
- Thai-Inspired Dressing: The homemade dressing with lime juice, soy sauce, and brown sugar adds an exciting twist, giving you a taste of Thai cuisine without leaving home.
Ingredients for Thai Chicken Salad
- Rotisserie Chicken – Provides tender, cooked chicken that’s easy to shred and mix into the salad.
- Mangoes – Adds a sweet, juicy flavor that complements the savory and tangy dressing.
- Carrots – Shredded for a crisp texture and a boost of vitamins.
- Lettuce Leaves – Serves as the base, adding freshness and crunch to every bite.
- Cilantro – Adds a unique, fresh herb flavor that enhances the Thai taste.
- Green Onions – Mildly spicy, they add a gentle onion flavor to the salad.
- Limes – The juice is used to create a tangy, refreshing dressing.
- Brown Sugar – Balances the tanginess in the dressing with a touch of sweetness.
- Soy Sauce – Adds a salty, umami depth to the dressing.
- Olive Oil – Provides a bit of richness to the dressing, helping it coat the ingredients.
For the exact measurements of the ingredients, see the printable recipe card at the bottom of this article.
Kitchen Tools You Need to Make Thai Chicken Salad
- Knife – For chopping the chicken, mango, and other fresh ingredients.
- Cutting Board – Provides a safe surface for prepping all ingredients.
- Food Processor or Grater – To quickly shred the carrots.
- Mixing Bowl – Perfect for tossing all ingredients together with the dressing.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons – Ensures accurate measurements for the dressing components.
How to Make Thai Chicken Salad
- Peel and chop the mangoes into bite-sized pieces.
- Shred the carrots using a food processor or a grater for added texture.
- Chop the cilantro and green onions finely to distribute their flavors throughout the salad.
- Squeeze the limes to extract all the juice and discard the peels.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the lime juice, brown sugar, soy sauce, and olive oil to make the dressing.
- Combine the lettuce, mango pieces, shredded carrots, cilantro, green onions, and chopped chicken in a large salad bowl.
- Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and toss until everything is well-coated.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve this Thai chicken salad in large salad bowls for a filling main course, or plate it on a platter for a beautiful presentation at gatherings.
- Pair it with a side of Thai-inspired appetizers, like spring rolls or dumplings, for a complete meal experience.
- Add a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds or crushed peanuts on top for extra crunch and flavor.
- For a refreshing drink pairing, serve with iced green tea or lemonade to complement the salad’s bright flavors.
- If you want a spicier kick, add a drizzle of sriracha or sprinkle of red pepper flakes on top just before serving.
Tips for Success
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh mango, crisp lettuce, and vibrant cilantro are key to achieving the best flavor in this salad. Overripe mango or wilted lettuce can alter the taste and texture, so choose the freshest produce available.
- Prep Ahead for Convenience: To save time, you can shred the carrots, chop the green onions, and prep the cilantro in advance. Keep these ingredients in separate containers in the fridge until you’re ready to assemble the salad.
- Customize the Dressing: The balance of lime juice, soy sauce, and brown sugar is essential for the Thai flavor, but you can adjust the sweetness or tanginess to your liking. If you prefer a more tangy dressing, add extra lime juice; for more sweetness, add a little more brown sugar.
- Serve Immediately After Dressing: Once the salad is dressed, it’s best enjoyed right away to keep the lettuce crisp. If you’re planning to store any leftovers, hold off on adding the dressing until you’re ready to eat.
- Make It Your Own: Feel free to add other Thai-inspired ingredients, like sliced red bell peppers for a pop of color or thinly sliced cucumbers for added crunch. These extras can enhance the flavor and make the salad even more satisfying.
- Chop Ingredients Evenly: For a balanced bite, try to chop the ingredients into similar sizes. This will help the flavors blend and ensure that each forkful has a mix of mango, chicken, lettuce, and other tasty ingredients.
- Use Leftover Rotisserie Chicken: This recipe is a great way to use up leftover chicken. If you don’t have a rotisserie chicken, grilled or baked chicken breast works well too.
Variations and Substitutions
- Add a Spicy Kick: For those who enjoy heat, add thinly sliced red chili or a dash of chili oil to the dressing for extra spice. You can also mix in red pepper flakes to bring a hint of Thai chili flavor.
- Swap the Protein: While rotisserie chicken adds convenience and flavor, feel free to substitute it with grilled shrimp, tofu, or even cooked beef strips for a different twist.
- Try Different Greens: If you don’t have lettuce on hand, substitute with other greens like baby spinach, arugula, or mixed greens. Each brings a unique flavor profile that pairs well with the dressing.
- Use a Different Sweetener: For a refined-sugar-free option, replace brown sugar with honey, maple syrup, or coconut sugar, all of which will maintain the sweet balance in the dressing.
- Make It Nutty: Add chopped peanuts or cashews for a crunchy texture and nutty flavor. This addition also enhances the authentic Thai feel of the salad.
- Adjust for Dietary Needs: For a gluten-free version, use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce. Both options bring a similar depth of flavor while accommodating dietary restrictions.
- Add More Veggies: Customize with additional Thai-inspired vegetables like thinly sliced red bell pepper, cucumber, or snap peas for extra crunch and a boost of nutrients.
- Experiment with Fruits: While mango provides a tropical sweetness, you could also try using pineapple chunks or papaya for a new flavor experience that complements the Thai-inspired dressing.
Storage and Reheating
- Storing Leftovers: If you have leftovers, store the salad and dressing separately to keep everything fresh. Place the undressed salad in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Keep the dressing in a sealed jar or container in the fridge as well.
- Reheating (if using warm chicken): If you prefer warm chicken in your salad, store the chicken separately and reheat it briefly in the microwave or on the stovetop before adding it to the salad. Otherwise, the salad is best served cold.
- Prepping for Later: If making this salad ahead, prepare all ingredients and store each component separately. Combine and dress the salad just before serving for the freshest flavor and texture.
- Refreshing the Salad: After a day or two, the greens may lose some of their crispness. Add a few fresh lettuce leaves or a handful of mixed greens to revive the salad if needed.
- Storing Extra Dressing: The dressing can be stored in the fridge for up to a week. Shake well before using, as the ingredients may separate over time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use another protein instead of chicken?
Absolutely! This salad is versatile and pairs well with various proteins. Grilled shrimp, tofu, or even thinly sliced beef work beautifully in place of chicken. Just make sure to season them lightly to complement the Thai flavors in the dressing.
What can I substitute for mango in this recipe?
If mango isn’t available or isn’t to your taste, try pineapple, papaya, or even diced apples for a sweet and juicy alternative. These fruits will keep the salad refreshing and add a hint of sweetness to balance the savory dressing.
How do I keep the salad fresh if making it ahead?
To keep your salad fresh, store the dressing separately and add it right before serving. This will help maintain the crunch of the lettuce and other vegetables. If prepping for a few days, you can store each ingredient separately and combine them just before eating.
Is there a way to make this salad spicy?
Yes, for a spicy kick, add sliced red chilies, a drizzle of chili oil, or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes. You can also add a bit of sriracha to the dressing for some extra heat, adjusting to your preferred spice level.
Can I make this Thai chicken salad vegan?
Definitely! Replace the chicken with tofu, tempeh, or chickpeas for a vegan version. Make sure to use a vegan-friendly soy sauce, such as tamari, and check that your other ingredients are plant-based.
How can I adjust the sweetness or tanginess of the dressing?
The dressing is very flexible, so feel free to adjust it to your taste. For more sweetness, add a bit more brown sugar or honey. To increase the tang, squeeze in extra lime juice until you reach the desired balance.
Other Easy Chicken Recipes
Air Fryer Chicken with Broccoli: This quick and healthy air fryer chicken with broccoli is a perfect weeknight meal, combining tender chicken and crisp broccoli with minimal oil.
Oven-Baked Thin Sliced Chicken Breasts: These oven-baked thin sliced chicken breasts are juicy, flavorful, and ready in under 20 minutes—perfect for easy dinners or meal prep.
Air Fryer Chicken Skewers: Deliciously seasoned and perfectly cooked, these air fryer chicken skewers are a simple yet tasty dish that’s ideal for family meals or gatherings.
Broiled Chicken Tenderloins: These broiled chicken tenderloins are marinated to perfection and broiled for a quick, flavorful main dish that pairs well with any side.
Instant Pot Tortilla Soup with Chicken: This Instant Pot chicken tortilla soup is loaded with bold flavors and tender chicken, making it a comforting meal ready in a fraction of the time.
Air Fryer Frozen Chicken Burritos from Trader Joe’s: Cooking frozen chicken burritos in the air fryer gives them a perfectly crispy exterior and a hot, tasty filling in minutes.
Stir-Fried Chicken with Zucchini, Mushrooms, and Cauliflower Rice: This stir-fried chicken with zucchini, mushrooms, and cauliflower rice is a wholesome, low-carb dish packed with flavor and nutritious veggies.
Thai Chicken Salad Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 rotisserie chicken chopped
- 2 mangoes
- 2 carrots
- 1 large package lettuce leaves
- 1 bunch cilantro
- 4 green onions
- 2 limes
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Recommended Kitchen Tools (click the links below to see the items used to make this recipe)
Instructions
- Peel the mangoes and cut the mangoes into small pieces.
- Peel the carrots and shred them in a food processor.
- Chop the cilantro.
- Chop the green onions into small pieces.
- Cut the lime into quarters and squeeze each quarter of a lime into a cup so all the lime juice comes out. Discard the peel.
- Make a dressing: mix lime juice, brown sugar, soy sauce and olive oil.
- Mix the lettuce, chopped mango, shredded carrots, cilantro, green onions and cut-up chicken.
- Add the dressing to the salad and mix until all the ingredients are coated with the dressing.
This Thai chicken salad recipe makes 4 main-dish salad servings. If you are making this salad just for yourself, reserve the remaining dressing and refrigerate the remaining salad (without the dressing). As long as you don’t add the dressing, this salad will keep fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Enjoy this yummy and healthy Thai chicken salad! This recipe is a perfect way to use up leftover chicken (see even more ideas for leftover Rotisserie chicken recipes).
So fresh and delicious 😍
Love the combination of chicken, mango, and Thai dressing.