Asian Chicken Cranberry Salad

Asian Chicken Cranberry Salad is the perfect blend of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors, making it a go-to option for light lunches, hearty dinners, or shared meals. With the crunch of coleslaw mix, the sweetness of dried cranberries, and the zest of mandarin oranges, every bite is bursting with vibrant flavors. Tossed in a flavorful Asian-inspired dressing, this salad offers a perfect balance of texture and taste that will leave everyone wanting more.

Ingredients

For the Salad:

• 12 cups coleslaw mix (2 small bags)
• 4 cups rotisserie chicken, finely chopped
• 1 ½ cups toasted sliced almonds (or cashews)
• 1 ½ cups dried cranberries
• ¾ cup red onion, finely diced
• 1 cup sesame sticks (optional)
• 1 ½ cups chopped cilantro
• 1–2 small cans mandarin oranges, drained
• Use ¼ cup of black sesame seeds or substitute with regular sesame seeds, depending on your preference.

For the Dressing:

• 1 cup extra-virgin olive oil
• ½ cup balsamic vinegar
• 4 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
• 3–4 cloves garlic, chopped
• 4 tablespoons honey (or brown sugar)
• 4 tablespoons minced ginger
• 2 teaspoons toasted sesame oil

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Salad Base

In a large mixing bowl, combine the coleslaw mix, rotisserie chicken, toasted almonds, dried cranberries, diced red onion, sesame sticks (if using), chopped cilantro, and mandarin oranges. Gently toss to distribute the ingredients evenly.

2. Toast the Sesame Seeds

Heat a dry skillet over medium heat and toast the sesame seeds until they are fragrant and lightly golden. Allow them to cool completely before incorporating them into the salad to maintain their crisp texture.

3. Make the Dressing

In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, soy sauce, chopped garlic, honey, minced ginger, and toasted sesame oil. Stir until the mixture is well combined and slightly emulsified.

4. Combine and Toss

Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss gently to ensure the ingredients are evenly coated. Sprinkle the toasted sesame seeds over the salad and give it one final toss to ensure even distribution.

5. Serve

Serve the salad immediately or let it sit in the refrigerator for 20–30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Garnish with additional sesame seeds or cilantro for an extra touch.

Helpful Tips for Perfecting Your Asian Chicken Cranberry Salad

Choose Fresh Ingredients
Using fresh and high-quality ingredients enhances the salad’s overall flavor and texture. Select crisp coleslaw mix and tender rotisserie chicken for the best results. Opt for dried cranberries and toasted nuts to add a delightful crunch and sweetness.

Balance the Dressing
The dressing combines savory, sweet, and tangy flavors. For optimal taste, adjust the quantities of honey and soy sauce according to your preference. Whisk the ingredients thoroughly to achieve a smooth and well-blended dressing.

Toast Nuts for Extra Flavor
Toasting sliced almonds or cashews intensifies their flavor and gives them a delightful crunch. Place them in a dry skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently until golden brown.

Incorporate Sesame Sticks Sparingly
For the best texture, add sesame sticks just before serving to keep them crisp and avoid sogginess. They offer a unique crunch that complements the salad beautifully.

Prepare Ahead of Time
To save time, chop and prepare the ingredients in advance. Store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator and toss them together just before serving.

Customize the Recipe
. Add sliced avocado, shredded carrots, or cucumber for additional freshness. This recipe is versatile and easy to personalize for different occasions.

Conservation and Storage

Refrigerating the Salad
To keep your Asian Chicken Cranberry Salad fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Separate the dressing from the salad if possible to prevent the greens and nuts from becoming soggy. When stored properly, the salad remains fresh for up to three days. For best results, toss the ingredients with the dressing just before serving.

Preparing for Later Use
If you plan to make the salad in advance, keep all the components separate. Store the coleslaw mix, chicken, cranberries, nuts, and sesame sticks in individual containers. The dressing should also be stored in an airtight container or jar in the refrigerator. Assemble the salad when you’re ready to serve to preserve the crunch and vibrant flavors.

Freezing Not Recommended
This salad does not freeze well due to its fresh and crisp ingredients. Freezing can cause the vegetables to lose their texture and the dressing to separate. For a dish that requires long-term storage, consider preparing just the dressing and keeping it frozen in an airtight container for up to one month. Thaw it in the refrigerator and whisk before using.

Reviving Leftovers
If the salad becomes slightly wilted, freshen it by adding a handful of new coleslaw mix or a sprinkle of freshly toasted nuts. This will restore some of the crunch and enhance the overall flavor.

Variations

Swap the Protein

For a creative twist, replace rotisserie chicken with grilled shrimp, pan-seared tofu, or shredded turkey. These options not only alter the flavor profile but also cater to different dietary needs. Grilled shrimp adds a coastal vibe, while tofu makes it vegetarian-friendly.

Play with the Greens

Instead of coleslaw mix, try using a combination of kale, arugula, and spinach. These greens offer a more robust flavor and additional nutrients, making the salad even healthier.

Add Crunchy Elements

If sesame sticks aren’t available, crushed ramen noodles or roasted sunflower seeds can serve as excellent substitutes. They maintain the desired crunch while adding a new dimension to the texture.

Enhance the Dressing

For an extra kick, mix in a teaspoon of chili flakes or Sriracha sauce to the dressing. Alternatively, replace honey with maple syrup for a subtly sweet variation.

Experiment with Fruits

Mandarin oranges can be swapped with diced mangoes or pomegranate seeds for a different fruity note. These options add bursts of color and flavor that complement the salad’s overall profile.

Serving Suggestions

Perfect for Any Occasion
Asian Chicken Cranberry Salad is versatile, making it a great choice for lunch, dinner, or a gathering. Serve it as a refreshing entrée on its own, accompanied by crusty bread or crackers for a satisfying meal. For a lighter option, pair it with a side of fresh fruit or a clear soup, like miso or chicken broth, to balance the flavors.

Ideal for Parties and Potlucks
This salad is an excellent addition to potlucks or buffet tables. Its vibrant colors and unique flavor combinations always make it a crowd-pleaser. Arrange the salad in a large, shallow bowl for easy serving, and keep a pair of tongs nearby for convenience. To add a festive touch, garnish the top with extra toasted sesame seeds and a few sprigs of fresh cilantro.

Creative Serving Ideas
Transform the salad into a wrap or sandwich by layering it in a tortilla or stuffing it into pita bread. For a gluten-free option, serve it over a bed of mixed greens or quinoa. Additionally, it works well as a topping for baked sweet potatoes, adding a delightful crunch and tangy sweetness. Whether as a standalone dish or part of a larger spread, this salad brings a burst of flavor to any table.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of protein?
Absolutely! While rotisserie chicken is convenient and flavorful, you can substitute it with grilled chicken, shredded turkey, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Shrimp or salmon can also add a unique twist to this salad.

How long can I store this salad?
The salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. However, if you plan to include sesame sticks, add them just before serving to maintain their crunch.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, this salad is great for meal prep. Assemble all the ingredients except for the dressing and sesame sticks. Store the dressing separately and mix it in when you’re ready to serve for the freshest flavor and texture.

What can I use as a substitute for dried cranberries?
Raisins, chopped dried apricots, or dried cherries are excellent alternatives. These options add a similar sweet-tart element to the salad.

Is it possible to make a vegan version?
Certainly! Substitute the chicken with plant-based options such as tofu or chickpeas for a vegetarian-friendly alternative. Use maple syrup instead of honey in the dressing and skip the cheese if included.

How can I adjust the sweetness of the dressing?
If you prefer a less sweet dressing, reduce the amount of honey or substitute it with a sugar-free alternative. On the other hand, adding a touch of brown sugar can enhance the sweetness if desired.

Print

For more delicious ideas, check out this Asian Chicken Cranberry Salad recipe!

Conclusion

Asian Chicken Cranberry Salad is a perfect blend of vibrant flavors and satisfying textures, making it a versatile dish suitable for any occasion. The combination of tender rotisserie chicken, sweet dried cranberries, crunchy nuts, and zesty mandarin oranges creates a balanced salad that pleases every palate. Additionally, the homemade sesame dressing adds a layer of richness and depth, tying all the ingredients together beautifully.

This salad is both simple to make and incredibly versatile. Whether you’re hosting a gathering, planning a picnic, or simply looking for a refreshing lunch, this recipe is a go-to option. You can adjust the ingredients to suit your preferences or dietary needs, ensuring it meets the tastes of your guests or family.

In conclusion, Asian Chicken Cranberry Salad delivers bold flavors and visual appeal while being both nutritious and satisfying. Make it your own and enjoy a dish that’s as delightful to make as it is to