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Zesty Chicken Citrus Crunch Salad Recipe

Zesty Chicken Citrus Crunch Salad Recipe


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4.7 from 32 reviews

  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 5 1x

Description

Refreshing chicken citrus crunch salad merges zesty Mediterranean flavors with crisp textures. Juicy chicken, tangy citrus, and crunchy nuts create a perfect harmony for summer dining experiences you’ll savor.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 cups cooked, shredded chicken
  • 3 cups thinly sliced Napa cabbage
  • 1 cup thinly sliced red cabbage
  • 1 cup shredded carrots
  • 1 cup thinly sliced sugar snap peas
  • 1 cup mandarin orange segments, drained
  • 1 cup chopped fresh cilantro leaves
  • 3 green onions, thinly sliced
  • ⅓ cup (0.33 cups) toasted slivered almonds
  • Sesame seeds (optional)
  • ¼ cup (4 tbsps) unseasoned rice vinegar
  • 3 tbsps toasted sesame oil
  • 3 tbsps coconut aminos
  • 2 tbsps avocado oil
  • ½ tsp ground ginger
  • ¼ tsp garlic powder

Instructions

  1. Assemble Base: In a large bowl, combine shredded chicken, finely sliced cabbage, julienned carrots, and thinly chopped green onions to create a crisp, colorful foundation.
  2. Craft Dressing: Whisk rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, honey, freshly grated ginger, and minced garlic until the mixture transforms into a harmonious, glossy emulsion.
  3. Marinate and Blend: Drizzle the vibrant dressing over the salad, tossing thoroughly to ensure each ingredient is lavishly coated with the zesty flavor profile.
  4. Elevate Texture: Gently fold in juicy orange segments, roughly torn cilantro leaves, and golden toasted sliced almonds, distributing them evenly to introduce layers of brightness and crunch.
  5. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle a delicate shower of toasted sesame seeds across the surface, providing a final nutty accent and elegant finishing touch to the Asian-inspired salad.

Notes

  • Maximize Flavor Fusion: Let the salad sit for 10-15 minutes after dressing to allow ingredients to marinate and blend tastes harmoniously.
  • Prevent Soggy Texture: Add crunchy almonds and sesame seeds just before serving to maintain their crisp, nutty texture.
  • Smart Protein Swap: Use rotisserie chicken or leftover grilled chicken for quick preparation and added convenience.
  • Temperature Tip: Serve chilled or at room temperature for optimal taste and refreshing eating experience.
  • Prep Time: 25 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner
  • Method: None
  • Cuisine: Asian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 5
  • Calories: 400
  • Sugar: 8 g
  • Sodium: 300 mg
  • Fat: 28 g
  • Saturated Fat: 4 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 24 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 20 g
  • Fiber: 5 g
  • Protein: 25 g
  • Cholesterol: 70 mg