Craving a delicious and healthy meal that's ready in under 30 minutes? Look no further! This Chicken Cashew Salad recipe is a fantastic option for a quick weeknight dinner or a light and satisfying lunch. Packed with protein, crunchy cashews, and vibrant veggies, this dish is a perfect example of easy recipes that don't compromise on flavor. Get ready to elevate your homemade cooking game with this simple yet incredibly satisfying recipe!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked and cubed (about 2 cups) Tip: You can grill, bake, or boil the chicken beforehand for convenience.
- 1 cup chopped celery
- 1/2 cup chopped red bell pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1/2 cup roasted cashews, roughly chopped
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a healthier option)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
- 1/2 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: Chopped fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish
Instructions:
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Prepare the Chicken: If you haven't already, cook the chicken breasts until fully cooked through. Let them cool completely before cubing. This ensures a nice, chilled salad.
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Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cubed chicken, celery, red bell pepper, and green onions.
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Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise (or yogurt), soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey (or maple syrup), sesame oil, and ginger. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Dress the Salad: Pour the dressing over the chicken and vegetables. Gently toss to coat everything evenly.
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Add Cashews: Stir in the chopped cashews.
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Chill and Serve: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. This step enhances the overall taste of this delicious dish. Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley before serving. Enjoy your homemade Chicken Cashew Salad!
Tips and Variations:
- For a spicier kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing.
- Add some crunch: Toasted sesame seeds or slivered almonds would be a tasty addition.
- Make it a meal: Serve this salad over a bed of mixed greens or brown rice for a more substantial meal.
- Meal prepping made easy: This salad is perfect for meal prepping. Prepare it in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 300-350
- Protein: 25-30g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 10-15g
This Chicken Cashew Salad recipe is a fantastic example of quick dinner ideas and healthy meals that are both easy to make and delicious to eat. It’s a perfect blend of savory and sweet flavors, and the crunchy cashews add a satisfying textural element. Whether you're a seasoned home cook or just starting out, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your recipe book. Give it a try and let us know what you think!