Chicken Cashew Crunch Salad

If you’re looking for a quick and delicious meal that’s bursting with flavor, then you’ve come to the right place! My Chicken Cashew Crunch Salad is one of my all-time favorites. It’s fresh, crunchy, and oh-so-satisfying. Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a delightful dish for family gatherings, this salad checks all the boxes. Plus, it comes together in just 20 minutes!

What makes this Chicken Cashew Crunch Salad so special is its incredible blend of textures and flavors. With tender chicken, crispy veggies, and the delightful crunch of cashews, every bite is a treat. And let’s not forget about the creamy tahini dressing that ties everything together beautifully!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This salad is ready in just 20 minutes! Perfect for those hectic weeknights when you need something healthy in a flash.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love the crunchiness of the cashews and the sweetness of the carrots. It’s an easy way to sneak in some extra veggies!
• Meal Prep-Friendly: Make a big batch at the start of the week and enjoy it for lunches or dinners. It stays fresh in the fridge for up to two days.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with wholesome ingredients like cabbage, chicken, and nuts, this salad provides a balanced meal without sacrificing flavor.
• Delicious Flavor: The sesame-teriyaki dressing adds a unique twist that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple, wholesome ingredients to create this delightful Chicken Cashew Crunch Salad. With everything you need at your fingertips, you’ll be on your way to enjoying this tasty dish in no time!

For the Dressing:

• 1/4 cup tahini (well-stirred)
• 2 Tbsp. lower-sodium tamari
• 2 Tbsp. rice vinegar
• 1 Tbsp. maple syrup
• 1 Tbsp. toasted sesame oil
• 1 garlic clove, grated or finely minced

For the Salad:

• 5 heaping cups chopped Napa cabbage (or sub green cabbage or kale)
• 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
• 1 cup shredded (matchstick) carrots
• 3/4 cup finely chopped green onions (from 1 bunch)
• 3/4 cup roasted, salted cashews
• 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh cilantro
• 2 Tbsp. toasted sesame seeds (optional)

Variations

This Chicken Cashew Crunch Salad is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to mix things up according to your taste preferences or what you have on hand.

• Swap the protein: Use grilled shrimp or tofu instead of chicken for a different twist.
• Change up the greens: Try using spinach or arugula for a peppery touch.
• Add some fruit: Toss in some diced apples or mandarin oranges for a sweet contrast.
• Make it spicy: Add sliced jalapeños or red pepper flakes if you like a kick!

How to Make Chicken Cashew Crunch Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Dressing

Start by preparing your dressing. Combine all dressing ingredients in a glass jar or large measuring cup; whisk until smooth. This step is important because it allows all those wonderful flavors to meld together perfectly before they meet the salad.

Step 2: Assemble the Salad

In a large bowl, combine your chopped cabbage (or kale), shredded chicken, carrots, green onions, cashews, and cilantro. This mix creates a vibrant salad full of color and texture! Sprinkle everything with a few pinches of salt to boost those flavors even more.

Step 3: Dress and Toss

Pour your creamy dressing over the salad mixture and toss well to combine everything evenly. This step ensures that every bite is packed with deliciousness! Serve immediately for maximum crunchiness or refrigerate it if you’re prepping ahead—it’s still fantastic after sitting in the fridge for up to two days.

Now you’re all set to enjoy this amazing Chicken Cashew Crunch Salad! It’s not just food; it’s comfort on a plate!

Pro Tips for Making Chicken Cashew Crunch Salad

Creating this vibrant salad is a breeze, especially with these handy tips to ensure perfect results every time!

• Choose Fresh Ingredients: Using the freshest vegetables and rotisserie chicken enhances the flavor of your salad and adds a crunch that’s simply irresistible.
• Customize Your Greens: Feel free to swap Napa cabbage for green cabbage or kale based on your preference. Each green brings its own unique texture and taste, allowing you to tailor the salad to your liking.
• Make Ahead for Meal Prep: This salad keeps well in the refrigerator for up to two days. Prep it in advance, and you’ll have nutritious meals ready to go during your busy week!
• Adjust the Dressing: If you prefer a creamier dressing, add a little more tahini or some Greek yogurt (if you’re open to dairy alternatives). This will give your dressing a richer consistency and flavor.
• Feel Free to Experiment: Don’t hesitate to throw in additional vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas for extra color and crunch. The more, the merrier when it comes to salads!

How to Serve Chicken Cashew Crunch Salad

This Chicken Cashew Crunch Salad is not only delicious but also visually appealing! Here are some delightful ways to present this dish that will impress your family and friends.

Garnishes

• Chopped Peanuts: Adding some chopped peanuts on top can enhance the nutty flavor and provide an extra crunch.
• Sliced Avocado: A few slices of creamy avocado can elevate the salad’s richness while also adding healthy fats.
• Lime Wedges: Serving lime wedges on the side allows guests to squeeze fresh lime juice over their salads for an added zesty kick.

Side Dishes

• Quinoa Pilaf: A light quinoa pilaf seasoned with herbs complements the flavors of the salad while providing additional protein and fiber.
• Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad with a tangy vinaigrette pairs well, balancing out the richness of the Chicken Cashew Crunch Salad.
• Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes roasted until crispy make a hearty side that adds both sweetness and texture to your meal.
• Fruit Skewers: For a light dessert option, serve fruit skewers made with seasonal fruits. They offer a sweet contrast that rounds off your meal perfectly.

With these serving suggestions and tips, your Chicken Cashew Crunch Salad will be a hit at any table! Enjoy this delightful combination of flavors while savoring every bite.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Chicken Cashew Crunch Salad is not just delicious; it’s also a fantastic option for meal prep! With its fresh ingredients and flavorful dressing, you can easily whip up a batch ahead of time for quick weekday lunches or dinners.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• It’s best to keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve to prevent the vegetables from wilting.
• Enjoy leftovers within 2 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing

• This salad is not ideal for freezing due to the fresh vegetables, which may lose their texture when thawed.
• However, if you have extra dressing, you can freeze it in ice cube trays and use it later!

Reheating

• If you’ve stored the salad with the dressing mixed in, simply toss it gently to redistribute before serving.
• For any chicken that was left over, reheat in a microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Chicken Cashew Crunch Salad.

Can I make Chicken Cashew Crunch Salad ahead of time?

Absolutely! This salad is perfect for meal prep. Just store it in an airtight container, keeping the dressing separate until you’re ready to enjoy.

What can I substitute for tahini in Chicken Cashew Crunch Salad?

If you don’t have tahini on hand, try using almond butter or sunflower seed butter as a creamy alternative that will still provide great flavor.

How long does Chicken Cashew Crunch Salad last in the fridge?

When stored properly, this salad can last for up to 2 days in the refrigerator. Remember to keep the dressing separate until serving!

Is Chicken Cashew Crunch Salad suitable for a gluten-free diet?

Yes! By using lower-sodium tamari instead of regular soy sauce, this salad can easily accommodate those following a gluten-free diet.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this vibrant and nutritious Chicken Cashew Crunch Salad as much as I do! It’s not only quick and easy but also packed with flavors that brighten up any meal. Whether you’re preparing it for a busy weeknight or a delightful lunch, this recipe is sure to be a hit. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to share your creations!