| Prep: 20 mins | Cook: 15 mins | Difficulty: Intermediate | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 350 | 12g | 2g | 36g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 16g | 5g | 32g | 1.25g |
There’s something truly satisfying about preparing and enjoying a delightful bowl of Asian-style Chicken Salad with Water Chestnuts. A fresh medley of crisp greens, crunchy nuts, and succulent chicken, all brought together by a burst of delectable Asian-inspired flavors. This recipe is one of my favorites, not only for its savory and fresh palate but also for the health benefits it packs in.
Gourmet Flavors Meets Health
The Asian-style Chicken Salad with Water Chestnuts is a far cry from my mountainous game meat menu. But it’s always refreshing to venture into different culinary landscapes. As you know, my love for food doesn’t limit me to hearty mountain fare. I find inspiration in a variety of cuisines from around the world, and this recipe picks notes from the light, healthy, and vibrant Asian cuisine. It stands out with its tangy dressing and the crunch from water chestnuts while still providing ample protein from the chicken. Plus, it’s loaded with vitamins and minerals from the colorful vegetables involved, accentuating its wholesome goodness.
Pairings and Complements
This salad pairs well with an array of dishes. You could serve it as a side to your favorite grilled salmon recipe for a summer evening. Alternatively, for a complete Asian-style meal, accompanying it with Stir-Fried Shrimp and Broccoli or Chicken Fried Rice could be an excellent idea. You could even enjoy it on its own, with a glass of chilled white wine, for a light lunch.
If you’re a fan of vibrant flavors and love to keep things healthy and hearty, this Asian-style Chicken Salad with Water Chestnuts is for you. Whether you are preparing a family dinner or looking for something easy yet satiating for a solo meal, this recipe has got you covered.
What You’ll Need
- 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 head Romaine lettuce
- 1.5 cups mandarin oranges, drained
- 1 cup diced fresh pineapple
- 1 can (8oz) sliced water chestnuts, drained
- 1 medium red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1.5 cups shredded carrots
- 3 green onions, thinly sliced
- 1 cup sliced almonds, toasted
- 1/4 cup sesame seeds, toasted
- For the Asian-style Dressing:
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, finely grated
- 1 clove garlic, finely minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Method
Step One
First, cook your chicken breasts. You can either grill, bake, or pan-sear them until they are fully cooked through. Once done, allow them to cool before slicing into thin strips.
Step Two
While your chicken is cooling, you can start to prepare your salad. Rinse your romaine lettuce before chopping it into bite-sized pieces and place it into a large bowl.
Step Three
Add the mandarin oranges, diced pineapple, sliced water chestnuts, thinly sliced red bell pepper, shredded carrots, and green onions to the bowl. Toss the ingredients together to combine.
Step Four
In a dry pan over medium heat, toast your sliced almonds and sesame seeds until lightly golden and fragrant. Allow to cool, then add to the salad.
Step Five
Now for the dressing. In a small bowl, combine the soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, sesame oil, grated ginger, and minced garlic. Season with salt and pepper to taste and whisk until well combined.
Step Six
Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss well to ensure every bite is full of flavor. Serve the salad topped with the sliced chicken and enjoy immediately for the best taste and texture.
