Delicious and Nutritious Asian Chicken Cranberry Salad

Imagine a dish that combines the rich tapestry of Asian flavors with the vibrant, tangy sweetness of cranberries. The Asian Chicken Cranberry Salad is just that – a delightful blend of tastes and textures that promises to be a hit at any gathering. This salad, a staple on the Reluctant Entertainer blog since 2015, is not just a recipe; it’s a celebration of fresh, wholesome ingredients coming together in a harmonious mix. Whether it’s a potluck, a holiday party, or a simple weeknight meal, this salad stands out with its light, refreshing, and utterly delicious profile. For more chicken-based dishes, explore Ina Garten’s Chicken Recipes, offering a variety of flavorful options.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Preparing this salad is a journey of simplicity and joy. The key lies in the quality of ingredients and the precision of preparation. Start with two small bags of coleslaw mix, ensuring a crisp, fresh base. Rotisserie chicken, finely chopped, adds a rich, savory depth. Toasted almonds or cashews bring in a delightful crunch, while dried cranberries offer a burst of tangy sweetness. Finely diced red onion, chopped cilantro, and optional mandarin oranges and sesame sticks contribute layers of flavor and texture.

For the dressing, a blend of extra-virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, low-sodium soy sauce, chopped garlic, honey or brown sugar, minced ginger, and toasted sesame oil creates a dressing that’s both tangy and sweet, with a hint of Asian flair.

In terms of tools, you’ll need a large bowl for mixing, a blender for the dressing, and utensils for chopping and toasting. The simplicity of the tools underscores the ease of making this salad, making it accessible to cooks of all skill levels.

Ingredients List

• 2 small bags of coleslaw mix (about 12 cups): Provides a crisp, fresh base.
• 4 cups rotisserie chicken, finely chopped: Adds savory depth.
• 1 ½ cups toasted sliced almonds or cashews: Introduces a nutty crunch.
• 1 ½ cup dried cranberries: Offers a tangy sweetness.
• ¾ cup red onion, finely diced: Brings a mild, sharp flavor.
• 1 cup sesame sticks (optional): Adds extra crunch.
• 1 ½ cups chopped cilantro: Contributes a fresh, herby note.
• 1-2 small cans mandarin oranges, drained (optional): Gives a citrusy zest.
• ¼ cup black sesame seeds, or regular: Enhances the salad’s visual appeal.
• 1 cup extra-virgin olive oil: Forms the base of the dressing.
• ½ cup balsamic vinegar, regular or white: Adds a sweet acidity.
• 4 Tbsp. low-sodium soy sauce: Introduces a savory umami flavor.
• 3-4 cloves garlic, chopped: Infuses a pungent aroma.
• 4 Tbsp. honey or brown sugar: Balances with sweetness.
• 4 Tbsp. minced ginger: Offers a spicy, warm note.
• 2 tsp. toasted sesame oil: Rounds out the dressing with its rich flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Creating the Magic: Step by Step

1. Layer the Base: In a large bowl, combine the coleslaw mix with the finely chopped chicken, toasted almonds or cashews, dried cranberries, diced red onion, sesame seeds, optional sesame sticks, and fresh cilantro. If using, add the mandarin oranges.
2. Blend the Dressing: In a blender, combine the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, soy sauce, garlic, honey or brown sugar, ginger, and sesame oil. Add 3 tablespoons of water and blend until smooth.
3. Dress and Toss: Just before serving, drizzle the dressing over the salad mixture to your desired level of moistness. Gently toss the salad to ensure even coating.

Nutritional Information & Health Benefits

The Asian Chicken Cranberry Salad is not just a feast for the taste buds; it’s a powerhouse of nutrition. The coleslaw mix, rich in vitamins and fiber, forms a healthy, low-calorie base. Chicken, a great source of protein, supports muscle growth and repair. Almonds and cashews add heart-healthy fats and proteins, while cranberries provide antioxidants and vitamins C and E. The red onion brings in quercetin, an anti-inflammatory compound, and cilantro offers digestive benefits.

The dressing, made with olive oil, is rich in monounsaturated fats, beneficial for heart health. Balsamic vinegar aids in digestion and blood sugar control, while soy sauce provides essential minerals. Garlic and ginger, known for their medicinal properties, offer immune-boosting benefits.

This salad is a balanced meal in itself, offering a range of nutrients essential for a healthy body. Its combination of proteins, healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals makes it an excellent choice for those seeking a nutritious yet delicious meal option.

Common Mistakes To Avoid & How to Perfect the Recipe

Avoiding common pitfalls can elevate your Asian Chicken Cranberry Salad from good to exceptional. Here are some tips:

• Overdressing: Too much dressing can make the salad soggy. Add dressing gradually and taste as you go.
• Not Toasting Nuts: Toasting nuts enhances their flavor. Don’t skip this step for a richer taste.
• Ignoring Ingredient Quality: Fresh, high-quality ingredients make a significant difference. Opt for fresh coleslaw mix and ripe mandarin oranges.
• Overlooking Chicken Preparation: Use well-cooked, finely chopped chicken. Rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and flavor enhancer.

To perfect the recipe, balance the flavors. The sweetness of cranberries and honey should complement the tanginess of balsamic vinegar and the savory notes of soy sauce. Adjust the ingredients to suit your taste, and remember, the salad’s beauty lies in its versatility. For a different chicken salad flavor, consider trying the Ina Garten Curried Chicken Salad, which offers a unique twist on traditional recipes.

Tips, Notes and Storing

Maximizing Your Salad Experience

• Variations: Feel free to experiment with different nuts or dried fruits.
• Make-Ahead: Prepare the salad a few hours in advance, but add the dressing just before serving.
• Storing: Store in an airtight container in the fridge. It stays fresh for a couple of days.
• Serving Suggestions: Serve as a main dish or a side salad. It pairs well with grilled meats or a light soup.

Remember, the salad’s flavors meld beautifully over time, making it a great option for leftovers. For a fall-themed salad, explore our Autumn Harvest Honeycrisp Apple and Feta Salad, a perfect blend of seasonal flavors

FAQs about Asian Chicken Cranberry Salad

1. Can I make this salad vegan? Yes, replace the chicken with tofu or just increase the amount of nuts and seeds.
2. Is this salad gluten-free? Yes, if you use gluten-free soy sauce.
3. Can I use a different type of vinegar? Absolutely! Apple cider vinegar is a great alternative.
4. How long does the salad last in the fridge? It stays fresh for 2-3 days in an airtight container.
5. Can I freeze this salad? Freezing is not recommended as it will affect the texture of the fresh ingredients.

If you’re looking for another salad with a crunch, try Paula Deen’s Broccoli Salad, a delightful mix of textures and flavors.

Conclusion

A Salad for All Seasons: The Asian Chicken Cranberry Salad is more than just a dish; it’s a celebration of flavors, textures, and nutrition. Perfect for any occasion, it’s a testament to the joy of cooking and the pleasure of eating. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a novice in the kitchen, this salad is sure to delight and impress. So, gather your ingredients, embrace the process, and get ready to enjoy a salad that’s as nourishing as it is delicious.

Expand your salad repertoire with the Kathleen Ashmore Artichoke Salad Recipe, a delightful dish that complements any meal.

Delicious and Nutritious Asian Chicken Cranberry Salad

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Craving something fresh, flavorful, and healthy? Try our Asian Chicken Cranberry Salad! Packed with crisp coleslaw, juicy chicken, and tangy cranberries, it’s perfect for any meal. Easy to make and irresistibly delicious, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to delight your taste buds.

• Author: Ember
• Prep Time: 15
• Total Time: 15
• Yield: 10
• Category: Salad
• Method: Mixing
• Cuisine: Asian

Ingredients

• 2 small bags of coleslaw mix (about 12 cups): Provides a crisp, fresh base.
• 4 cups rotisserie chicken, finely chopped: Adds savory depth.
• 1 ½ cups toasted sliced almonds or cashews: Introduces a nutty crunch.
• 1 ½ cup dried cranberries: Offers a tangy sweetness.
• ¾ cup red onion, finely diced: Brings a mild, sharp flavor.
• 1 cup sesame sticks (optional): Adds extra crunch.
• 1 ½ cups chopped cilantro: Contributes a fresh, herby note.
• 1–2 small cans mandarin oranges, drained (optional): Gives a citrusy zest.
• ¼ cup black sesame seeds, or regular: Enhances the salad’s visual appeal.
• 1 cup extra-virgin olive oil: Forms the base of the dressing.
• ½ cup balsamic vinegar, regular or white: Adds a sweet acidity.
• 4 Tbsp. low-sodium soy sauce: Introduces a savory umami flavor.
• 3–4 cloves garlic, chopped: Infuses a pungent aroma.
• 4 Tbsp. honey or brown sugar: Balances with sweetness.
• 4 Tbsp. minced ginger: Offers a spicy, warm note.
• 2 tsp. toasted sesame oil: Rounds out the dressing with its rich flavor.

Instructions

1. Layer the Base: In a large bowl, combine the coleslaw mix with the finely chopped chicken, toasted almonds or cashews, dried cranberries, diced red onion, sesame seeds, optional sesame sticks, and fresh cilantro. If using, add the mandarin oranges.
2. Blend the Dressing: In a blender, combine the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, soy sauce, garlic, honey or brown sugar, ginger, and sesame oil. Add 3 tablespoons of water and blend until smooth.
3. Dress and Toss: Just before serving, drizzle the dressing over the salad mixture to your desired level of moistness. Gently toss the salad to ensure even coating.

Notes

1. Toast the Nuts: Enhance flavor by toasting almonds or cashews before adding them to the salad.
2. Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh coleslaw mix and ripe mandarin oranges for the best taste.
3. Balance the Dressing: Adjust the dressing ingredients to suit your taste, ensuring a perfect balance of sweet and tangy.