Introduction: A Refreshing, Flavorful Salad

Looking for a refreshing and nutritious salad that’s packed with flavor? The Asian Chicken Cranberry Salad combines the savory taste of rotisserie chicken, the sweetness of dried cranberries, and the crunch of colseslaw mix. Tossed in an Asian-inspired dressing, this salad is a vibrant, healthy option for lunch, dinner, or even as a side dish. The balance of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors with a variety of textures—from the crisp vegetables to the tender chicken—makes this salad stand out.

The great thing about this salad is its versatility: you can customize it by adding other ingredients such as nuts, seeds, or extra veggies. It’s quick to prepare and is a perfect meal prep option that stays fresh in the fridge for several days.

Let’s dive into how to make this delicious and satisfying Asian Chicken Cranberry Salad!

Ingredients

Here’s everything you’ll need to make Asian Chicken Cranberry Salad:

For the Salad:

  • 2 small bags of coleslaw mix (about 12 ounces each) – This is the base of the salad, providing crisp, crunchy texture.
  • 1 ½ cups dried cranberries – For a sweet contrast to the savory elements of the salad.
  • 4 cups rotisserie chicken, shredded – A convenient and flavorful way to add protein to the salad.
  • ¼ cup toasted sesame seeds – For extra crunch and nuttiness.
  • ¼ cup sunflower seeds – For added texture and crunch.
  • Cilantro – Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional but adds freshness).
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil – For flavor in the dressing.
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil – Adds a smooth base to the dressing.

For the Dressing:

  • 3 tablespoons rice vinegar – The tangy base for the Asian-inspired dressing.
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce – Adds depth and savory umami flavor.
  • 2 tablespoons honey – For a touch of sweetness to balance the vinegar.
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard – Adds tanginess and depth.
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil – To give the dressing its nutty richness.
  • 1 teaspoon fresh grated ginger – For a fresh, zesty kick.
  • 1 teaspoon garlic, minced – For an extra layer of savory flavor.
  • 1 tablespoon water – To thin out the dressing slightly, if needed.
  • Salt and pepper, to taste – To balance the flavors.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

  1. Shred the Rotisserie Chicken: If you haven’t already, remove the skin from the rotisserie chicken and shred the meat using a fork or your hands. You’ll need about 4 cups of shredded chicken for the salad.
  2. Set Aside: Once shredded, set the chicken aside to be added to the salad later.

Step 2: Prepare the Salad Base

  1. Coleslaw Mix: Open the 2 bags of coleslaw mix and add them to a large salad bowl. This mix will be the main base of your salad, providing a crisp texture and great crunch.
  2. Add Dried Cranberries: Add 1 ½ cups of dried cranberries to the salad base for a touch of sweetness.
  3. Add Seeds: Add ¼ cup toasted sesame seeds and ¼ cup sunflower seeds to the bowl for additional crunch and texture. These seeds will also add a lovely nutty flavor.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

  1. Combine the Ingredients: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the 3 tablespoons rice vinegar, 1 tablespoon soy sauce, 2 tablespoons honey, 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard, 1 tablespoon sesame oil, 1 teaspoon fresh grated ginger, and 1 teaspoon minced garlic.
  2. Adjust Consistency: If the dressing is too thick, add 1 tablespoon of water to thin it out. Taste the dressing and add salt and pepper to taste.
  3. Whisk Well: Whisk until the dressing is smooth and well-combined. Set it aside for later.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad

  1. Combine Chicken with Salad Base: Add the shredded 4 cups of rotisserie chicken to the bowl with the coleslaw mix, cranberries, and seeds. Toss it all together gently to combine.
  2. Add the Dressing: Pour the prepared dressing over the salad. Toss the salad thoroughly to ensure that the dressing evenly coats all the ingredients.
  3. Garnish with Cilantro: Optionally, garnish the salad with fresh cilantro for a burst of freshness.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

  1. Serve Immediately: Once everything is mixed, you can serve the Asian Chicken Cranberry Salad immediately. If you’re prepping this for a meal later, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
  2. Enjoy: This salad can be served as a main course or as a side dish. It’s great on its own, or paired with some crispy bread or a side of rice.

Nutritional Breakdown (per serving)

Here’s an approximate nutritional breakdown for each serving of Asian Chicken Cranberry Salad (assuming the recipe makes 6 servings):

  • Calories: ~350-400 kcal per serving
  • Protein: ~30g
  • Carbohydrates: ~20g
  • Fat: ~18g
  • Fiber: ~4g
  • Sugar: ~12g
  • Sodium: ~600mg

Keep in mind that the exact nutritional values can vary depending on the specific brands of ingredients you use (for example, different types of soy sauce or honey).

Tips for Success

Here are a few tips to make sure your Asian Chicken Cranberry Salad is perfect every time:

  1. Use Rotisserie Chicken for Convenience: Rotisserie chicken is an easy way to add protein without having to cook the chicken yourself. The skinless breast meat works best for this salad.
  2. Dress Just Before Serving: To keep the salad fresh and crisp, only dress the salad right before serving. If you’re prepping it in advance, store the dressing separately and combine them just before serving.
  3. Make it Vegan: For a vegan version, you can substitute the chicken with tofu, tempeh, or edamame. Use a plant-based alternative for the honey (like maple syrup) and make sure the soy sauce is gluten-free.
  4. Add More Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables to the salad. Cucumber, carrots, or bell peppers can add more crunch and flavor.
  5. Use Fresh Herbs: If you don’t have fresh cilantro, fresh mint or basil can provide a fresh, aromatic flavor to the salad.

Variations

Here are some variations you can try for a different twist on this Asian Chicken Cranberry Salad:

  • Spicy Asian Chicken Cranberry Salad: Add a few teaspoons of sriracha or red pepper flakes to the dressing for a spicy kick.
  • Fruity Asian Salad: Add fresh sliced oranges or mango to enhance the fruity element of the salad.
  • Noodle Salad: Add some cooked rice noodles or soba noodles for a heartier, more filling version of this salad.
  • Crunchy Asian Salad: Throw in some chopped almonds or crushed peanuts to add even more crunch to the salad.

Storage and Reheating

This salad is great for meal prep and can be stored for several days:

  • Refrigeration: Store the leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The dressing will keep the salad moist, but it’s best to store the dressing separately if you prefer the ingredients to stay crisp.
  • Freezing: It’s not recommended to freeze the salad because the dressing will not hold up well after being frozen and thawed. However, the chicken and vegetables can be stored in the freezer separately if needed.

Serving Suggestions

This Asian Chicken Cranberry Salad pairs beautifully with:

  • Crispy spring rolls or egg rolls for an appetizer.
  • Steamed jasmine rice or quinoa for a fuller meal.
  • Fresh fruit like pineapple or grapefruit to balance the savory flavors.

Final Thoughts

This Asian Chicken Cranberry Salad offers a perfect blend of sweet, savory, and crunchy elements that make it a satisfying meal. The rotisserie chicken provides a quick source of protein, while the cranberries and zucchini add freshness and texture. Paired with the tangy dressing, it’s a salad that’s perfect for any occasion.

Whether you’re looking for a light lunch, a side dish, or a healthy dinner option, this salad checks all the boxes. Plus, it’s easily customizable to suit your tastes. Give it a try, and enjoy a refreshing, flavorful meal that everyone will love!