Asian Chicken Cranberry Salad

by

Introduction

Asian Chicken Cranberry Salad is a delightful fusion dish that combines the vibrant flavors of Asia with the tart sweetness of cranberries. This salad is not only visually appealing but also packed with nutrition, making it a perfect choice for a light lunch or a refreshing dinner. The use of rotisserie chicken provides a quick and easy protein source, while the crunchy elements and a zesty dressing tie everything together beautifully. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the details of making this delicious salad, its origins, and various ways to enjoy it.

Overview of the Recipe

Asian Chicken Cranberry Salad is a harmonious blend of coleslaw mix, finely chopped rotisserie chicken, toasted sliced almonds or cashews, dried cranberries, finely diced red onion, and optional sesame sticks. The salad is further enhanced with chopped cilantro, mandarin oranges, and sesame seeds. The dressing is a flavorful mix of extra-virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, low-sodium soy sauce, garlic, honey, minced ginger, and toasted sesame oil. The combination of these ingredients results in a salad that is both crunchy and refreshing, with a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors.

History and Origin

While the exact origin of Asian Chicken Cranberry Salad is unclear, it is a modern creation that blends traditional Asian flavors with Western ingredients. Salads featuring chicken and nuts are common in many cuisines, but the addition of cranberries and mandarin oranges gives this dish a unique twist. The use of a soy-based dressing with balsamic vinegar showcases the fusion aspect, combining elements from different culinary traditions to create a new, delightful dish.

Ingredients

  • 12 cups coleslaw mix (2 small bags)
  • 4 cups rotisserie chicken, finely chopped
  • 1 ½ cups toasted sliced almonds (or cashews)
  • 1 ½ cups dried cranberries
  • ¾ cup red onion, finely diced
  • 1 cup sesame sticks (optional)
  • 1 ½ cups chopped cilantro
  • 1-2 small cans mandarin oranges, drained
  • ¼ cup black sesame seeds (or regular sesame seeds)
  • 1 cup extra-virgin olive oil
  • ½ cup balsamic vinegar
  • 4 Tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
  • 3-4 cloves garlic, chopped
  • 4 Tbsp honey (or brown sugar)
  • 4 Tbsp minced ginger
  • 2 tsp toasted sesame oil

Instructions

Prepare Salad

  1. Layer the Ingredients:
    • In a large bowl, layer 12 cups of coleslaw mix.
    • Add 4 cups of finely chopped rotisserie chicken on top.
    • Sprinkle 1 ½ cups of toasted sliced almonds or cashews.
    • Add 1 ½ cups of dried cranberries.
    • Finely dice ¾ cup of red onion and add to the bowl.
    • If using, add 1 cup of sesame sticks.
    • Chop 1 ½ cups of cilantro and add to the salad.
    • Drain and add 1-2 small cans of mandarin oranges.
    • Sprinkle ¼ cup of black sesame seeds over the mixture.

Make Dressing

  1. Combine Ingredients:
    • In a blender, combine 1 cup of extra-virgin olive oil, ½ cup of balsamic vinegar, and 4 tablespoons of low-sodium soy sauce.
    • Add 3-4 cloves of chopped garlic.
    • Mix in 4 tablespoons of honey or brown sugar.
    • Add 4 tablespoons of minced ginger.
    • Finally, add 2 teaspoons of toasted sesame oil.
  2. Blend the Dressing:
    • Add 3 tablespoons of water to the blender.
    • Blend until the mixture is smooth and well combined.

Combine

  1. Dress the Salad:
    • Lightly pour the dressing over the salad mixture. Adjust the amount based on your preference for moistness.
  2. Toss and Serve:
    • Gently toss the salad to ensure even distribution of the dressing and ingredients.
    • Serve immediately.

Pairing and Serving Suggestions

Asian Chicken Cranberry Salad pairs well with a variety of dishes. Here are some suggestions to complement your meal:

  • Soups: A light miso soup or a clear chicken broth can be a great starter.
  • Bread: Serve with a side of crusty bread or garlic toast for added texture.
  • Rice: A small serving of steamed jasmine rice or brown rice can make the meal more filling.
  • Beverages: Complement the salad with a refreshing iced tea, lemonade, or sparkling water.

Variations of the Recipe

This salad is versatile and can be customized in many ways. Here are a few variations:

  • Protein: Substitute rotisserie chicken with grilled shrimp, tofu, or thinly sliced beef for a different protein source.
  • Nuts: Try using pecans, walnuts, or pine nuts instead of almonds or cashews.
  • Fruits: Fresh mango or pineapple can be used instead of mandarin oranges for a tropical twist.
  • Greens: Mix in some baby spinach or arugula for added greens and nutrition.
  • Dressing: Experiment with different dressings, such as a citrus vinaigrette or a peanut sauce, to change the flavor profile.

Health Benefits

Asian Chicken Cranberry Salad is not only delicious but also packed with health benefits:

  • High in Protein: The rotisserie chicken provides a good amount of protein, essential for muscle repair and growth.
  • Rich in Antioxidants: Cranberries and almonds are high in antioxidants, which help combat oxidative stress and inflammation.
  • Nutrient-Dense: The coleslaw mix, cilantro, and mandarin oranges offer a variety of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin K, and potassium.
  • Healthy Fats: The olive oil and nuts provide healthy fats that are beneficial for heart health.

FAQs

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the salad ingredients and the dressing separately ahead of time. Store them in the refrigerator and combine them just before serving to keep the salad fresh and crunchy.

How long does this salad last in the fridge?

The salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, for the best texture and flavor, it is recommended to consume it within a day.

Can I use a different type of vinegar in the dressing?

Yes, you can use apple cider vinegar or rice vinegar as a substitute for balsamic vinegar. Each type will give the dressing a slightly different flavor.

Is this salad gluten-free?

To make the salad gluten-free, ensure that the soy sauce used is labeled gluten-free. All other ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

Conclusion

Asian Chicken Cranberry Salad is a delightful and versatile dish that combines the best of both Asian and Western culinary traditions. Its vibrant flavors, crunchy texture, and refreshing taste make it a perfect choice for any meal. Whether you are looking for a light lunch, a side dish, or a main course, this salad is sure to please. Try out the variations and pairings to find your perfect combination, and enjoy the health benefits that come with this nutritious and delicious salad.

Leave a Comment