Craving a delicious Asian-inspired dish? This Asian Chicken Cranberry Salad is perfect for potlucks, holiday gatherings, or even as a satisfying main course! Bursting with vibrant flavors, it’s a tasty treat for any occasion.
INGREDIENTS
- 2 small bags of coleslaw mix (about 12 cups)
- 4 cups finely chopped rotisserie chicken
- 1 ½ cups toasted sliced almonds (or cashews)
- 1 ½ cups dried cranberries (Orange Cranberries from Trader Joe’s recommended)
- ¾ cup finely diced red onion
- 1 cup sesame sticks (optional, available in the bulk aisle)
- 1 ½ cups chopped cilantro
- 1-2 small cans of mandarin oranges (drained)
- ¼ cup black sesame seeds (or regular sesame seeds)
- 1 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- ½ cup balsamic vinegar (regular or white)
- 4 Tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
- 3-4 cloves garlic, chopped
- 4 Tbsp honey (or brown sugar)
- 4 Tbsp minced ginger
- 2 tsp toasted sesame oil
Equipment
- Blender (A Vitamix works great for this recipe)
INSTRUCTIONS
- In a large bowl, layer the coleslaw mix, chicken, almonds (or cashews), cranberries, red onion, sesame seeds, sesame sticks (if using), and cilantro. Add the mandarin oranges if desired.
- In a blender, combine the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, soy sauce, garlic, honey, ginger, and sesame oil. Add 3 tablespoons of water and blend until smooth.
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad, adding to your preferred level of moisture. Toss gently and serve. (You may have some dressing leftover.)
Notes: Feel free to adjust the ingredients to your taste. Add more crunch with extra sesame sticks, or customize the sweetness with honey or brown sugar.
