Thai Chicken Salad

Name: Thai Chicken Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 chicken breasts, cooked and shredded; 2 cups mixed salad greens; 1 cup cucumber, sliced; 1 cup bell peppers, sliced; 1/2 cup carrots, grated; 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped; 3 tablespoons lime juice; 2 tablespoons fish sauce; 1 tablespoon honey; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 1 clove garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon grated ginger

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

Experience a burst of fresh flavors with this vibrant Thai Chicken Salad recipe. Packed with tender chicken breast, crisp vegetables, and a zesty dressing, this healthy meal is perfect for a quick lunch or a light dinner. Enjoy the combination of herbal and citrus notes that will leave you feeling refreshed and satisfied.

Created by

Freya Cooper

Last updated on 2025-12-02T15:53:55.204Z

This Thai Chicken Salad is a delightful mix of flavors and textures, bringing a taste of Thailand right to your kitchen. The tender chicken paired with fresh vegetables creates a light yet satisfying meal.

        Why You'll Love It
        Quick and easy to prepare.
Healthy and packed with nutrients.
Bursting with fresh flavors.

      

A Wholesome Combination

The Thai Chicken Salad brings together a colorful medley of ingredients that are as nutritious as they are delicious. The tender shredded chicken provides a great source of lean protein, essential for muscle repair and overall health. Meanwhile, the salad greens and vibrant vegetables add a plethora of vitamins and minerals, making this dish a powerhouse of nutrition. Each bite is not only tasty but also guilt-free, allowing you to enjoy a satisfying meal while still adhering to your health goals.

Incorporating a variety of fresh vegetables like cucumbers, bell peppers, and carrots offers significant health benefits. Cucumbers are hydration champions, low in calories but high in water content, while bell peppers add a pop of color and a rich supply of vitamin C. Carrots contribute antioxidant properties and promote eye health. This balanced combo ensures you get a wide range of nutrients in every serving, making your meal both colorful and beneficial.

Zesty Dressing Elevates Flavors

What truly sets this Thai Chicken Salad apart is its vibrant dressing, which effortlessly elevates the overall flavor profile. The combination of lime juice, fish sauce, honey, and sesame oil creates a delightful blend of tangy, savory, and slightly sweet notes that will invigorate your taste buds. The garlic and ginger further enhance the dressing, adding warmth and depth to every mouthful.

This dressing isn’t just tasty—it also brings a host of health benefits. Lime juice is packed with antioxidants and vitamin C, which can boost your immune system. Similarly, honey offers natural sweetness along with antibacterial properties. Plus, sesame oil is rich in healthy fats and provides a nutty aroma that enhances the entire dish. With such a flavorful dressing, you’ll find yourself wanting to add it to other salads and dishes as well!

Versatile Meal Options

One of the best aspects of this Thai Chicken Salad is its versatility. It makes for a fantastic standalone meal, but you can also pair it with rice noodles or quinoa for a heartier option. This adaptability allows you to cater to different dietary preferences and make the salad suitable for various occasions, whether it’s a casual lunch, a picnic, or a light dinner.

You can also customize the salad by adding your favorite ingredients. For example, consider tossing in sliced avocados for a creamy texture or incorporating edamame for an extra protein boost. The dressing itself can be adjusted to suit your taste—feel free to experiment with the balance of lime juice and honey to find your perfect flavor. This salad is a canvas for creativity, encouraging you to make it uniquely yours!

Ingredients

For the Salad

2 chicken breasts, cooked and shredded
2 cups mixed salad greens
1 cup cucumber, sliced
1 cup bell peppers, sliced
1/2 cup carrots, grated
1/4 cup cilantro, chopped

For the Dressing

3 tablespoons lime juice
2 tablespoons fish sauce
1 tablespoon honey
1 tablespoon sesame oil
1 clove garlic, minced
1 teaspoon grated ginger

Mix all the ingredients together in a large bowl.

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken

Cook the chicken breasts in a pan over medium heat until fully cooked, then shred them.

Mix the Salad

In a large bowl, combine the salad greens, cucumber, bell peppers, carrots, and cilantro.

Make the Dressing

In a separate bowl, whisk together the lime juice, fish sauce, honey, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger.

Combine Everything

Add the shredded chicken to the salad and pour the dressing over the top. Toss to combine.

Serve immediately for a fresh meal or refrigerate for later.

Storage Tips

To keep the Thai Chicken Salad fresh and delicious, it’s best to store the components separately. Place the mixed salad greens and vegetables in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain their crispness. The dressing can be stored in a sealed jar; it usually keeps well for up to a week, allowing you to enjoy this meal multiple times throughout the week.

Once you’re ready to eat, simply combine the salad ingredients in a bowl, add the shredded chicken, and drizzle the dressing over the top. If you’ve made a larger batch, consider dividing it among several meals to ensure freshness and flavor in each serving. Just remember to toss the salad right before serving for the best texture!

Nutritional Information

This Thai Chicken Salad is not only vibrant but also a healthy option that’s low in calories and high in nutrients. A typical serving (including chicken and veggies) offers a balanced ratio of macronutrients: protein, healthy fats, and carbohydrates. By prioritizing simple ingredients, you pack your salad with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants to support overall wellness.

Moreover, the use of fresh herbs like cilantro adds a unique taste and additional nutritional benefits. Cilantro is known for its anti-inflammatory properties and is believed to aid in digestion. When combined with the hearty vegetables, lean chicken, and zesty dressing, this salad becomes a delightful and healthful choice for lunch or dinner.

Serving Suggestions

For an enhanced dining experience, consider serving the Thai Chicken Salad with a side of sliced fruit or a light soup. The contrast of flavors will round out your meal and add a refreshing element. Additionally, serve it on a warm day for a light and cooling main dish that’s perfect for hot weather.

If you’re entertaining guests, this salad can also be a stunning centerpiece on any table. Serve it in a large bowl and allow guests to help themselves, or portion it into individual servings for a more formal presentation. Pair with a chilled beverage, such as iced green tea or a citrus-infused sparkling water, to complement the zesty flavors perfectly.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, but it's best to keep the dressing separate until you're ready to serve.

→ What can I substitute for chicken?

You can use tofu for a vegetarian version.