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Asian Chicken Cranberry Salad is the quickest way I know to bring a bright and satisfying meal to the table in just fifteen minutes. I return to it all summer long because every bite brings together freshness and crunch with a burst of sweet cranberry flavor.
When I needed a last minute dish for an unexpected lunch guest I tossed this salad together and everyone raved about it now it is my staple whenever I have leftover chicken.
Ingredients
- Cooked chicken: shredded the protein that makes this salad a main dish Look for juicy rotisserie or home cooked chicken with plenty of flavor
- Mixed greens: offer a crisp and refreshing base Baby spinach or arugula are great picks that stay lively
- Dried cranberries: pack a tart and sweet pop Use ones that look glossy and plump so they are not too hard
- Sliced almonds: bring crunch and a nutty finish Choose slivers with even color and no bitterness
- Green onions: chopped give the salad a mild onion flavor and lift Look for firm stalks with bright green tops
- Sesame dressing: ties everything together with a toasty tang Use a dressing that is well balanced not too sweet or oily
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep the Ingredients:
- Shred the cooked chicken by hand or fork so it stays juicy Cut the green onions into thin slices and gather all the other components
- Build the Salad Base:
- Place the mixed greens in a large salad bowl Spread the chicken over the greens so it mixes evenly
- Add the Sweet and Crunchy Bits:
- Sprinkle dried cranberries all around Scatter sliced almonds throughout so every bite gets a bit of crunch
- Brighten with Onion:
- Top with chopped green onions making sure some green is visible for color and flavor
- Dress and Toss:
- Drizzle sesame dressing over everything Pour slowly so the dressing coats without drowning Stir gently from the bottom to distribute all ingredients evenly and keep the greens perky
- Chill or Serve:
- Serve the salad right away for freshest texture If you like it cooler cover and let it chill for a few minutes so flavors meld
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What I love most is the sweet tartness from the cranberries which always reminds me of family gatherings when we would sneak handfuls of dried fruit before dinner It is that playful flavor that keeps this salad on repeat for me
Storage Tips
If you are planning to meal prep store the salad components separately in airtight containers and only toss with dressing right before eating This keeps the greens crisp and prevents sogginess Leftovers can be kept in the fridge for up to two days after dressing but texture is best eaten soon
Ingredient Substitutions
Use turkey instead of chicken when you have extra holiday poultry Pumpkin seeds stand in for almonds if you want a nut free version For a lighter touch try a vinaigrette instead of sesame dressing or use yogurt based dressings
Serving Suggestions
This salad makes a quick lunch on its own or a lovely starter for a summertime dinner When feeding a crowd double the recipe and arrange on a platter For more substance add cooked quinoa or a handful of snap peas to the mix
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Cultural and Historical Context
Combining chicken with sweet dried fruit is a classic move in many Asian inspired salads The sesame dressing brings a layer of toasty richness that is common in East Asian fusion cooking This salad shows off how global flavors can blend with familiar ingredients for everyday meals
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?
Yes, fresh cranberries offer a tart bite and work well in this salad if you prefer a sharper flavor.
- → How can I add more flavor to the chicken?
Marinate the chicken in soy sauce before cooking or use grilled chicken to add smoky notes to the dish.
- → What type of salad greens should I use?
Mixed greens such as spinach, arugula, or spring mix provide a great base for this salad. Choose your favorite blend.
- → Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
You can assemble the ingredients in advance, but toss with dressing just before serving to keep the greens crisp.
- → Is there a substitute for sesame dressing?
Try a simple vinaigrette or a ginger-soy dressing if sesame dressing is unavailable. Adjust flavors to taste.