Print

Asian Chicken Cranberry Salad Recipe

4.8 from 122 reviews

A quick and refreshing Asian Chicken Cranberry Salad featuring shredded rotisserie chicken, crunchy coleslaw mix, dried cranberries, and a zesty sesame-ginger dressing. This vibrant salad combines sweet, savory, and fresh flavors with a delightful almond crunch, perfect for a light lunch or easy dinner.

Ingredients

Scale

Salad Ingredients

  • 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (preferably rotisserie)
  • 1/2 cup dried cranberries
  • 1 cup shredded cabbage
  • 1/2 cup shredded carrots
  • 1/4 cup thinly sliced green onions, plus extra for garnish
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
  • 1/4 cup sliced almonds

Dressing Ingredients

  • 2 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp honey
  • 1 tbsp rice vinegar
  • 1 tsp sesame oil
  • 1/2 tsp freshly grated ginger

Instructions

  1. Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large bowl, add the shredded cooked chicken, shredded cabbage and carrots (or coleslaw mix), dried cranberries, sliced green onions, and chopped fresh cilantro. Gently toss to mix the ingredients evenly, ensuring vibrant colors and textures combine well. Hold off adding the almonds at this stage to preserve their crunch.
  2. Prepare Dressing: In a small bowl or a jar with a lid, combine soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and freshly grated ginger. Whisk with a fork or shake the jar vigorously until the honey dissolves and the ingredients are fully blended into a smooth dressing.
  3. Dress the Salad: Just before serving, pour the prepared dressing over the salad mixture. Toss gently but thoroughly so each ingredient is lightly coated without wilting the cabbage and carrots, keeping the salad crisp and fresh.
  4. Add Crunch and Serve: Sprinkle sliced almonds over the salad for a satisfying crunchy texture. Optionally garnish with extra sliced green onions. Serve immediately for best texture and flavor.

Notes

  • Using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken significantly reduces prep time.
  • A bag of coleslaw mix can conveniently replace separate shredded cabbage and carrots.
  • Add the almonds last to maintain their crunch.
  • The dressing can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 3 days.
  • This salad is best served fresh to keep the vegetables crisp.

Keywords: Asian chicken salad, cranberry salad, no cook salad, easy lunch recipe, sesame ginger dressing, healthy chicken salad, quick weeknight meal