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Asian Chicken Cranberry Salad Recipe

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This Asian Chicken Cranberry Salad combines rotisserie chicken, mandarin oranges, toasted nuts, and a zesty balsamic dressing for a light, flavorful meal that’s as healthy as it is delicious. With a perfect mix of savory, sweet, and crunchy textures, this easy-to-make salad is ideal for lunch or dinner and is naturally gluten-free.

Ingredients

1½ cups chopped cilantro

4 Tbsp. minced ginger

1 cup sesame sticks (optional)

½ cup balsamic vinegar (white or regular)

4 cups rotisserie chicken, finely chopped

1½ cups toasted sliced almonds (or cashews)

1–2 small cans mandarin oranges, drained

3–4 cloves garlic, chopped

¼ cup black sesame seeds (or regular)

1 cup extra-virgin olive oil

4 Tbsp. low-sodium soy sauce

¾ cup red onion, finely diced

2 small bags coleslaw mix (12 cups)

2 tsp. toasted sesame oil

1½ cup dried cranberries

Instructions

  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the coleslaw mix, rotisserie chicken, chopped cilantro, and red onion.

  • In a separate bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, soy sauce, toasted sesame oil, and extra-virgin olive oil.

  • Add the minced ginger, chopped garlic, and sesame seeds to the dressing mixture and stir to combine.

  • Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss everything together until evenly coated.

  • Add the mandarin oranges, dried cranberries, toasted almonds (or cashews), and sesame sticks (if using), and gently toss again.

  • Serve immediately or refrigerate for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Notes

  • Chicken Alternatives: Use grilled, poached chicken, or turkey instead of rotisserie chicken.

  • Nut Alternatives: Swap sliced almonds or cashews with walnuts, pecans, or macadamia nuts.

  • Fruit Variations: Consider using apples, pears, or grapes instead of mandarin oranges for a fresh twist.

  • Dressing Options: Sweeten the dressing with honey or maple syrup, or add sriracha/chili flakes for heat.

  • Vegetarian Version: Omit chicken and increase nuts and dried fruits for a vegetarian-friendly option.

Find it online: https://recipesbyjanet.com/asian-chicken-cranberry-salad-recipe/