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Asian Chicken Cranberry Salad

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A refreshing salad featuring finely chopped rotisserie chicken, crisp coleslaw mix, toasted almonds, dried cranberries, and a zesty homemade dressing. Ideal for a quick meal or as a dish to share at gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Salad:

  • 12 cups coleslaw mix (from 2 small bags)
  • 4 cups rotisserie chicken, finely chopped
  • 1½ cups toasted sliced almonds or cashews
  • 1½ cups dried cranberries
  • ¾ cup red onion, finely diced
  • 1 cup sesame sticks (optional)
  • 1½ cups chopped fresh cilantro
  • 12 small cans mandarin oranges, drained (optional)
  • ¼ cup black or regular sesame seeds

For the Dressing:

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

Instructions

  • Assemble the Salad:
    • In a large bowl, layer the coleslaw mix, chopped chicken, toasted almonds or cashews, dried cranberries, diced red onion, sesame sticks (if using), chopped cilantro, and mandarin oranges (if using). Sprinkle with sesame seeds.
  • Prepare the Dressing:
    • In a blender, combine the extra-virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, soy sauce, chopped garlic, honey or brown sugar, minced ginger, and toasted sesame oil. Add 3 tablespoons of water and blend until smooth.
  • Dress the Salad:
    • Drizzle the prepared dressing over the salad mixture. Toss gently to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated. Serve immediately.

Notes

  • Variations: For a vegetarian option, substitute the chicken with tofu or tempeh. You can also add other fresh vegetables like bell peppers or cucumbers for extra crunch.
  • Storage: If not serving immediately, store the salad and dressing separately to prevent sogginess. Combine just before serving.
  • Nuts: Feel free to substitute almonds with cashews or a mix of both, depending on your preference.