Thai Peanut Chicken Salad

There’s something undeniably magical about the combination of crisp vegetables and tender chicken, all drizzled in a creamy peanut sauce. Thai Peanut Chicken Salad is a whirlwind of flavors that will dance on your taste buds and leave you craving more. Imagine biting into crunchy cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and perfectly seasoned chicken, all harmoniously intertwined with a luscious dressing that sings sweet and savory notes.

This delightful salad isn’t just a dish it’s a memory waiting to happen. Picture yourself hosting a sun-soaked picnic or whipping it up for a cozy family dinner. The vibrant colors and enticing aromas will have everyone rushing to the table, eagerly anticipating that first mouthful of deliciousness. Trust me once you make this salad, it will become an instant favorite in your recipe repertoire.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • This Thai Peanut Chicken Salad is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings
  • The balance of fresh ingredients creates an explosion of flavor that’s both satisfying and healthy
  • Its stunning presentation makes it a showstopper at any event while being versatile enough to serve as a main or side dish

I remember the first time I made this salad for my friends during a summer barbecue. They devoured it within seconds, begging for the recipe before I even had the chance to sit down

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

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

  • Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Use about 3-4 chicken breasts for tender meat that soaks up all those tasty flavors.
  • Fresh Vegetables: Crisp cucumbers, vibrant bell peppers, and juicy tomatoes add crunch and color to your salad.
  • Peanut Butter: Creamy or chunky your choice Just ensure it’s unsweetened for better control over sweetness.
  • Soy Sauce: Opt for low-sodium soy sauce to keep the saltiness in check while enhancing flavor.
  • Honey: A touch of sweetness balances the savory elements local honey can enhance the overall flavor profile.
  • Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed lime juice adds brightness bottled juice just won’t cut it.
  • Garlic and Ginger: Freshly minced garlic and ginger elevate the flavor don’t settle for powdered versions here
  • Cilantro (optional): For those who love it, fresh cilantro adds an aromatic kick that complements the dish beautifully.

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

Let’s Make it together

Cook the Chicken: Start by preheating your grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Season your chicken breasts with salt and pepper before placing them on the grill until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

Prepare Vegetables: While the chicken cooks, chop your cucumbers, bell peppers, and tomatoes into bite-sized pieces. Arrange them in a large bowl so they look inviting.

Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, lime juice, minced garlic, and grated ginger until smooth. This creamy concoction should be aromatic if not, add more lime

Combine Ingredients: Once your chicken has cooled slightly after cooking, slice it into strips. Toss it with your vegetables in the big bowl before drizzling on that irresistible dressing.

Toss & Serve: Gently toss everything together until well-coated with dressing. If you’re feeling fancy, garnish with chopped cilantro before serving.

Enjoy this colorful salad as a refreshing lunch or dinner option that’s sure to impress even your pickiest friends You might want to double the recipe because leftovers seem to disappear faster than you can say “Thai Peanut Chicken Salad.”

You Must Know

  • This Thai Peanut Chicken Salad is not just a salad it’s a flavor explosion The crunchy veggies paired with creamy peanut dressing create a delightful texture
  • Perfect for meal prep, it stays fresh and delicious for days, making your lunch game strong and exciting

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by cooking the chicken first to lock in flavors, then chop fresh veggies while the chicken rests. This order keeps everything fresh and ensures your salad shines

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out chicken for tofu or shrimp for a vegetarian or seafood twist. Experiment with cilantro, lime juice, or chili flakes to elevate flavors.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To enjoy warm, gently microwave without overheating nobody wants rubbery chicken.

Chef's Helpful Tips

  • To elevate your Thai Peanut Chicken Salad, consider marinating the chicken overnight for extra flavor
  • Use a mix of crunchy and soft vegetables to enhance texture
  • Always taste the peanut dressing before serving adjust sweetness and spice levels as needed for perfection

Once, I made this salad for a picnic and forgot the dressing at home. My friends still rave about how delicious it was even without it who knew?

FAQs

FAQ

What can I use instead of chicken in Thai Peanut Chicken Salad?

Tofu or grilled shrimp works wonderfully as alternative proteins in this salad.

Can I make the dressing ahead of time?

Yes, prepare the peanut dressing in advance and store it in the fridge for up to one week.

How do I keep my salad from getting soggy?

Keep the dressing separate until ready to serve to maintain freshness and crunchiness of veggies.

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Thai Peanut Chicken Salad


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

  • Author: Ann Foster
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 4

Description

Thai Peanut Chicken Salad is a vibrant, flavor-packed dish that brings together tender chicken and crisp vegetables, all coated in a creamy peanut sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights or sunny picnics, this salad is not just a meal—it’s an experience that will delight your taste buds. With its refreshing crunch and rich dressing, it’s sure to become a staple in your recipe collection.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 34 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb)
  • 1 cup cucumbers, diced
  • 1 cup bell peppers, diced
  • 1 cup tomatoes, diced
  • 1/2 cup creamy natural peanut butter
  • 3 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
  • 2 tbsp honey
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated
  • Cilantro (optional)

Instructions

  1. Grill or pan-sear the chicken breasts over medium-high heat until cooked through (165°F), about 6-7 minutes per side. Let cool slightly before slicing.
  2. In a large bowl, combine diced cucumbers, bell peppers, and tomatoes.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, lime juice, garlic, and ginger until smooth.
  4. Add sliced chicken to the vegetable mix and drizzle with dressing. Toss gently to combine.
  5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for later.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Salad
  • Method: Grilling/Pan-searing
  • Cuisine: Thai

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bowl (approximately 400g)
  • Calories: 450
  • Sugar: 10g
  • Sodium: 700mg
  • Fat: 22g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 18g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 33g
  • Fiber: 5g
  • Protein: 32g
  • Cholesterol: 75mg

Related Articles

Sloppy Joes

There’s something undeniably magical about a plate piled high with Sloppy Joes, dripping with rich, tangy sauce and nestled between two soft buns. It’s messy,

Learn More

Ann Foster

Chef & Blogger

Hi, I’m Ann Foster! Born and raised in California’s Central Valley, I found my passion for cooking in my grandmother’s kitchen. After graduating from the Culinary Institute of America, I traveled across the country exploring new flavors and cooking techniques. This website is my passion project—where I share delicious recipes meant to bring people together, one meal at a time. Welcome to my culinary journey!

Chef Ann