Description
Mandarin Chicken Salad
Ingredients
2 grilled chicken breasts, sliced
6 cups mixed salad greens (romaine, spinach, or arugula)
1 cup mandarin orange segments (fresh or canned, drained)
1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 cup shredded purple cabbage
1/4 cup sliced almonds, toasted
Sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
Dressing:
1/4 cup olive oil
2 tbsp rice vinegar
1 tbsp honey
1 tbsp soy sauce
1 tsp sesame oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
Prepare the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, rice vinegar, honey, soy sauce, sesame oil, salt, and pepper. Set aside.
Assemble the salad: In a large bowl or on a platter, arrange the salad greens as the base. Top with grilled chicken slices, mandarin orange segments, cherry tomatoes, purple cabbage, and sliced almonds.
Add dressing: Drizzle the dressing over the salad just before serving. Toss gently to combine.
Garnish and serve: Sprinkle with sesame seeds if desired, and serve immediately.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes (for grilled chicken)
Total Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: 310 kcal per serving
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Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed steps for a perfect salad every time. First, prepare your chicken. Season two boneless, skinless chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Grill over medium-high heat for 5-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing. While the chicken cooks, make the dressing. In a jar or small bowl, combine 1/4 cup olive oil, 2 tablespoons rice vinegar, 1 tablespoon honey, 1 tablespoon soy sauce, and 1 teaspoon sesame oil. Seal the jar and shake vigorously, or whisk until fully emulsified. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Next, assemble your base. In a large serving bowl, layer 6 cups of mixed greens. Arrange 1/2 cup shredded purple cabbage and 1/2 cup halved cherry tomatoes on top. Drain 1 cup of mandarin oranges well if using canned. Scatter the oranges over the salad. Add the sliced grilled chicken. Finally, sprinkle 1/4 cup of toasted sliced almonds over everything.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile salad is perfect as a light main course for lunch or dinner. For a heartier meal, serve it alongside a bowl of miso soup or vegetable spring rolls. To make it a complete meal-prep option, store the dressing separately and keep the almonds in a small bag to maintain their crunch. You can also swap the almonds for crispy wonton strips for a different texture, or add avocado slices for extra creaminess and healthy fats.
How-to Summary
Quick summary: Grill and slice chicken. Whisk dressing ingredients in a bowl. In a large serving bowl, layer greens, cabbage, tomatoes, mandarin oranges, and chicken. Top with almonds. Drizzle with dressing, toss gently, and serve immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different protein? Absolutely. Shredded rotisserie chicken, grilled shrimp, or baked tofu are excellent substitutes for the grilled chicken breasts.
How do I toast sliced almonds? Place almonds in a dry skillet over medium heat. Cook for 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently, until they become fragrant and turn a light golden brown.
Can I make this salad ahead of time? You can prep components ahead, but assemble just before serving. Store dressing, chopped veggies, chicken, and nuts separately. Combine and dress only when ready to eat to prevent sogginess.
Is there a substitute for sesame oil? Sesame oil provides a distinct flavor, but if you don’t have it, you can use more olive oil and add a pinch of ground ginger to the dressing for a similar aromatic note.
How long will leftovers keep? Once dressed, the salad is best eaten immediately. Undressed components can be stored in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid these pitfalls for the best results. First, do not add the dressing until you are ready to serve, as it will wilt the greens. Second, ensure your mandarin orange segments are thoroughly drained to prevent excess liquid from watering down the salad and dressing. Third, do not skip toasting the almonds; this step is crucial for maximizing their flavor and crunch. Finally, do not overcook the chicken, as it will become dry. Letting it rest before slicing is key to keeping it juicy.
Conclusion
This Mandarin Chicken Salad is a flawless blend of sweet, savory, and crunchy textures, coming together in just 20 minutes. It’s a nutritious, protein-packed meal that feels indulgent yet is incredibly simple to prepare. By following the step-by-step guide and avoiding common mistakes, you can create a restaurant-quality salad at home. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or for impressing guests, this recipe is sure to become a regular in your healthy eating rotation.