A vibrant, crunchy salad featuring tender chicken, sweet cranberries, and a tangy sesame-ginger dressing. This refreshing and flavorful dish is perfect for a light lunch or dinner, offering the perfect balance of textures and tastes in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick & Easy – Ready in just 10 minutes with no cooking required.
Healthy & Nutritious – Packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins for a satisfying meal.
Deliciously Balanced – A mix of sweet, savory, crunchy, and tangy flavors.
Meal-Prep Friendly – Make it ahead of time and store it for a convenient grab-and-go option.
Naturally Gluten-Free & Dairy-Free – Suitable for various dietary needs.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
4 cups mixed greens (such as spinach, arugula, and romaine)
1 cup shredded carrots
1 cup red cabbage, thinly sliced
1/2 cup dried cranberries
1/2 cup sliced almonds or chopped peanuts
1/4 cup green onions, chopped

For the Dressing:

1/4 cup soy sauce
2 tablespoons rice vinegar
1 tablespoon sesame oil
1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
1 garlic clove, minced
Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

Prepare the Salad – In a large salad bowl, combine the mixed greens, shredded carrots, red cabbage, dried cranberries, sliced almonds, and green onions.
Add the Chicken – Add the cooked chicken to the salad bowl and toss gently to combine.
Make the Dressing – In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, honey, grated ginger, and minced garlic until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Dress the Salad – Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to coat all the ingredients evenly.
Serve – Serve the salad immediately, or refrigerate for up to 2 hours to let the flavors meld. Enjoy!

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4 servings
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Calories: 320 kcal per serving

Variations

Vegetarian Option – Swap chicken for tofu or chickpeas.
Extra Crunch – Add crispy wonton strips or toasted sesame seeds.
Spicy Kick – Mix in sriracha or red pepper flakes to the dressing.
Citrus Twist – Add fresh mandarin orange slices for a burst of sweetness.
Nut-Free – Replace almonds with sunflower or pumpkin seeds for a nut-free version.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Dressing Storage: Keep dressing separate if making ahead; add before serving.
Reheating: Best enjoyed cold, but if using warm chicken, reheat separately before adding to the salad.

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken for this salad?

Yes! Rotisserie chicken is a great time-saving option for this recipe.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes! Just store the dressing separately and toss before serving to keep the greens fresh.

What can I substitute for soy sauce?

Use tamari for a gluten-free option or coconut aminos for a soy-free alternative.

Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?

Dried cranberries add sweetness, but if using fresh, balance with a bit of honey.

What other nuts work well in this salad?

Cashews, pecans, or walnuts make great substitutes for almonds or peanuts.

How do I make this salad keto-friendly?

Use a sugar-free sweetener in the dressing and replace cranberries with chopped avocado.

Is this salad good for meal prep?

Yes! Just keep the dressing separate and add it when ready to eat.

What other vegetables can I add?

Cucumbers, bell peppers, snap peas, or shredded Brussels sprouts are great additions.

Can I use a different dressing?

A peanut or tahini-based dressing would also work well with this salad.

Is this salad filling enough for a meal?

Absolutely! With protein-rich chicken, healthy fats, and fiber-packed veggies, it’s a complete meal.

Conclusion

This Asian Chicken Cranberry Salad is the perfect blend of fresh, crunchy, and flavorful ingredients, making it a go-to meal for busy days. Whether you’re meal prepping or making a quick lunch, this vibrant salad is packed with nutrition and deliciousness. Try it today and enjoy a refreshing, satisfying dish!