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Sweet Chili Chicken Salad

A vibrant and refreshing salad that combines tender chicken, crunchy vegetables, and a sweet-spicy dressing, perfect for any gathering.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Main Course, Salad
Cuisine: Asian
Calories: 320

Ingredients
  

For the Dressing
  • 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce Look for one with no preservatives for the best flavor.
  • 2 tbsp olive oil Extra virgin gives a lovely richness.
  • 2 tbsp toasted sesame oil Adds a nutty aroma.
  • 2 tbsp rice vinegar Helps to balance the sweetness.
  • 2 tbsp low sodium soy sauce Use more or less depending on your salt preference.
  • 1 tsp minced ginger Fresh is best for a zesty kick.
For the Salad
  • 2 cups cooked boneless skinless chicken breast, chopped Use leftovers or rotisserie chicken for convenience.
  • 2 cups shelled edamame Great source of protein.
  • 4 cups Romaine lettuce, chopped Crisp and hydrating.
  • 2 cups shredded red cabbage Adds color and crunch.
  • 1 cup shredded carrots For sweetness.
  • 1 cup Persian cucumbers, chopped You can substitute with English cucumbers.
  • 1/4 cup green onions, chopped For a mild onion flavor.
  • 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped Fresh herb lovers.
  • 2 tbsp fresh mint, chopped Adds a refreshing twist.
  • 2 tbsp fresh basil, chopped For a fragrant touch.

Method
 

Prepare the Dressing
  1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the sweet chili sauce, olive oil, toasted sesame oil, rice vinegar, soy sauce, and minced ginger until well combined. Taste and adjust seasonings if necessary.
  2. Allow the dressing to sit for at least 10 minutes to let the flavors meld.
Assemble the Salad
  1. In a large bowl, combine the chopped chicken, shelled edamame, Romaine lettuce, shredded red cabbage, shredded carrots, Persian cucumbers, green onions, cilantro, mint, and basil.
  2. Spend a few minutes chopping to ensure even texture and distribution throughout the salad.
Mix It Up
  1. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently until everything is well coated.
  2. Taste once more, and season with salt and pepper if needed.
  3. The salad should be vibrantly colorful, with each piece evenly coated in dressing.
Serve Immediately
  1. Enjoy your freshly tossed Sweet Chili Chicken Salad right away, or refrigerate for about 30 minutes for a refreshing, chilled dish.
  2. Avoid over-tossing! Gently mix to retain the integrity of the veggies and chicken.

Notes

Choose high-quality produce and fresh herbs for optimal flavor. This salad is forgiving and allows for substitutions.