Description
A vibrant and nutritious chicken cashew crunch salad featuring tender grilled chicken, fresh vegetables, crunchy roasted cashews, and crispy chow mein noodles, all tossed in a flavorful homemade Asian-inspired dressing. Perfect for a quick, healthy meal packed with texture and bold flavors.
Ingredients
Scale
Salad Ingredients
- 2 chicken breasts
- 4 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
- 1 bell pepper (any color), diced
- 1 carrot, julienned
- 2 green onions, sliced
- 1 cup unsalted roasted cashews
- 1 cup crispy chow mein noodles
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Dressing Ingredients
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 2 minced garlic cloves
- 1 tablespoon grated ginger
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Grill the Chicken: Begin by grilling the chicken breasts until fully cooked, ensuring the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for safety. Once done, let the chicken rest to keep it juicy before slicing into strips for the salad.
- Prepare the Vegetables: While the chicken is resting, chop the romaine lettuce, dice the bell pepper, julienne the carrot, and slice the green onions. Combine these in a large mixing bowl to create a colorful, fresh salad base.
- Add Cashews: Sprinkle the unsalted roasted cashews over the vegetable mixture, adding a satisfying crunch and nutty flavor to the salad.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, rice vinegar, minced garlic, grated ginger, and salt and pepper until well combined to create a flavorful dressing.
- Toss Salad with Dressing: Pour the dressing generously over the salad ingredients and toss thoroughly to ensure every piece is coated with the delicious dressing.
- Add Sliced Chicken: Fold the grilled chicken strips into the salad, distributing them evenly throughout the vibrant mix.
- Top with Crunchy Noodles: Just before serving, sprinkle the crispy chow mein noodles on top to add an enjoyable crunch that complements the textures of the salad.
- Garnish with Cilantro: Optionally, sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro over the salad for a bright, aromatic finish that enhances both flavor and presentation.
- Serve Immediately: Enjoy the salad fresh to best savor the crisp textures and vibrant flavors. It is ideal served right away to maintain the crunchiness of the toppings.
Notes
- Ensure chicken is cooked to the safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) before serving.
- To keep the salad crunchy, add the chow mein noodles just before serving.
- Fresh cilantro is optional but adds a nice aromatic touch that complements the Asian-inspired flavors.
- You can substitute grilled chicken with tofu for a vegetarian option.
- If you prefer a gluten-free version, use gluten-free soy sauce and gluten-free chow mein noodles or omit them.
- Store leftovers without the crispy noodles to prevent sogginess; add fresh noodles when ready to serve again.
