Thai Chicken Mango Salad Recipe

Introduction

This Thai Chicken Mango Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish that combines crunchy cabbage, sweet mango, and tender shredded chicken. Tossed in a flavorful peanut-ginger dressing, it’s perfect for a light lunch or a colorful side.

Ingredients

• 5 cups shredded cabbage (regular or Napa cabbage works well)
• 1 1/2 cups matchstick carrots (or grated carrots)
• 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, julienned
• 1 ripe mango, thinly sliced
• 1 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1/3 cup roughly chopped cashews
• 2 cups shredded chicken
• 3 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 4 tablespoons tamari sauce
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, peeled and minced
• 2 tablespoons natural peanut butter
• 2 teaspoons sesame oil
• 3 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a large bowl, combine the shredded cabbage, carrots, red onion, red bell pepper, mango, cilantro, cashews, and shredded chicken.
2. Step 2: In a small bowl or mason jar, mix together the rice vinegar, tamari sauce, garlic, honey, ginger, peanut butter, sesame oil, and olive oil. Stir or shake well until the dressing is smooth and emulsified.
3. Step 3: Pour your desired amount of dressing over the salad—using about half is recommended. Toss thoroughly to coat all ingredients evenly.
4. Step 4: Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld. Serve chilled or at room temperature for best taste.

Tips & Variations

• For a vegetarian version, swap shredded chicken with firm tofu or chickpeas.
• Use lime juice instead of rice vinegar for a citrusy twist in the dressing.
• Add sliced fresh chili or a pinch of chili flakes if you like some heat.
• Roast the cashews lightly for a nuttier flavor and crunch.

Storage

Store the salad and dressing separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Toss the salad with the dressing just before serving to keep the vegetables crisp. Leftover salad is best eaten cold but can be brought to room temperature if preferred.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare this salad in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time but keep the dressing separate until just before serving to maintain freshness and crispness.

What can I use if I don’t have tamari sauce?

You can substitute tamari with soy sauce, though tamari is gluten-free and a bit less salty, so adjust quantities to taste.