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Asian Chicken Cranberry Salad

End the sad desk lunch with this vibrant, crunchy 15-minute salad featuring shredded chicken, cabbage, sweet cranberries, and a glossy sesame ginger dressing.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 2 servings
Course: Main Course, Salad
Cuisine: American, Asian Fusion
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

Salad Base
  • 2 cups cooked chicken breast shredded or chopped
  • 3 cups green cabbage thinly shredded
  • 1 cup carrots julienned
  • 0.5 cup dried cranberries
  • 0.5 cup sliced almonds toasted
  • 0.25 cup fresh cilantro roughly chopped
Sesame Ginger Dressing
  • 3 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
  • 2 tbsp rice vinegar
  • 1 tbsp toasted sesame oil
  • 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp fresh ginger finely grated
  • 1 clove garlic minced

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Small jar with lid
  • Chef's Knife
  • Cutting board

Method
 

  1. Prepare the dressing: In a small jar with a tight-fitting lid, combine soy sauce, rice vinegar, toasted sesame oil, honey, olive oil, grated ginger, and minced garlic. Shake vigorously until smooth and emulsified.
  2. Toast the almonds: Place sliced almonds in a dry skillet over medium heat. Toast for 3-5 minutes, tossing frequently, until fragrant and golden. Remove from heat and let cool.
  3. Assemble the salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cabbage, carrots, dried cranberries, cooled toasted almonds, and fresh cilantro.
  4. Dress and serve: Pour the prepared dressing over the salad ingredients. Toss thoroughly to ensure everything is evenly coated. Serve immediately.
  5. Meal prep note: If making ahead of time, store the dressing in a separate container and only dress the salad right before eating to prevent sogginess.

Notes

To save even more time, use a store-bought rotisserie chicken and bags of pre-shredded cabbage mix or matchstick carrots.