Asian Chicken Cranberry Salad

This vibrant Asian Chicken Cranberry Salad is my answer when I want something crisp, satisfying, and perfect for potlucks or quick family dinners. Packed with crunchy veggies, protein-rich chicken, sweet cranberries, and a zingy homemade dressing, this salad wins hearts at every gathering and is speedy enough for busy weeknights.

I first tossed this together after a friend dropped by unexpectedly and it instantly became my go-to for impressing guests without any fuss. My family now requests it every summer barbecue.

Ingredients

• Coleslaw mix: Provides crunch and color Look for fresh firm shreds without browning
• Rotisserie chicken: Adds protein and makes this a satisfying main meal Use well-seasoned chicken for best flavor
• Toasted sliced almonds or cashews: Supply a buttery crunch Toasted nuts taste richer so avoid raw if possible
• Dried cranberries: Sweet tart notes that brighten the salad I love using orange cranberries for a hint of citrus
• Red onion: Adds sharp bite and sweetness Choose firm onions with shiny skin
• Sesame sticks: Optional for extra crunch Use fresh sticks for the best snap
• Cilantro: Infuses freshness Fresh vibrant green leaves have the best aroma
• Mandarin oranges: Deliver juicy bursts of sweetness Canned segments should look plump and not mushy
• Sesame seeds: Sprinkle nutty depth Toasted seeds are more aromatic
• Olive oil: Base of the dressing Choose extra virgin for fuller flavor
• Balsamic vinegar: Lends tangy complexity White balsamic gives a sweeter lighter note
• Soy sauce: Adds umami Choose low-sodium to keep things balanced
• Garlic: Brings aromatic warmth Fresh cloves are more pungent than jarred
• Honey or brown sugar: Balances acidity Use good-quality honey for floral hints
• Ginger: Offers spicy brightness Minced fresh ginger adds zing
• Toasted sesame oil: Delivers that classic nutty Asian flavor Only a little needed
• Water: Helps blend the dressing smoothly Use filtered water for the cleanest taste

Instructions

Prep the Salad Base:

Chop the cooked rotisserie chicken finely to ensure even bites In a very large bowl layer the coleslaw mix followed by the chicken almonds or cashews dried cranberries diced red onion sesame seeds optional sesame sticks and chopped cilantro Gently scatter the drained mandarin oranges across the top for juicy sweetness

Make the Dressing:

Combine the extra virgin olive oil balsamic vinegar low sodium soy sauce chopped garlic honey or brown sugar minced ginger toasted sesame oil and a bit of water in a blender Blend until completely smooth so the ginger and garlic are fully combined and the dressing turns creamy

Dress and Toss:

Drizzle the fresh dressing over the salad a little at a time and toss gently with clean hands or large salad servers Coat every ingredient but avoid overdressing as you want everything lightly glistening but not soggy Add more dressing if you like your salad juicy Keep any extra in a jar in the fridge

Serve Immediately:

Once well tossed transfer to a pretty platter or serve straight from the large bowl This salad is best enjoyed fresh when the textures are crisp and the flavors are at their brightest

My favorite part of this recipe is the way orange cranberries and fresh ginger make every bite vivid and unexpected Once I made the salad with my kids around the holidays and we ended up eating the leftovers for breakfast because we just could not resist the freshness

Storage Tips

This salad is at its best the day it is made but you can prep all the components ahead and keep them in separate containers in the fridge Toss with dressing just before serving If you do have leftovers store tightly covered without the sesame sticks to keep things from getting soggy

Ingredient Substitutions

No rotisserie chicken around You can use any cooked chicken breasts or thighs even leftover turkey is wonderful If you dislike cilantro try flat-leaf parsley or just more coleslaw mix Swap cashews for almonds for a buttery crunch or pumpkin seeds for a nut free version

Serving Suggestions

Serve this salad on its own for a light main It makes a lively side alongside grilled steak or salmon Try piling it into lettuce wraps for a fun party appetizer or tuck into tortillas for easy wraps with a twist

Cultural and Historical Context

This salad draws inspiration from classic Asian slaws mixing sweet dried fruits silkily tart dressings and nutty crunch The combination of savory soy and sweet citrus is often found in celebratory Asian dishes though using rotisserie chicken and cranberries gives it a modern American spin I first brought this to a Lunar New Year potluck where it fit right in with both traditional and fusion dishes

Seasonal Adaptations

Swap in apples or pears for the cranberries when fall arrives Substitute fresh orange segments for mandarin oranges during citrus season Use fresh pea shoots or thinly sliced snap peas in spring for even more crunch

Success Stories

This salad has shown up at everything from bridal showers to midweek packed lunches It is a frequent star at my annual summer block party and every time a neighbor asks me for the recipe

Freezer Meal Conversion

While the full salad will lose its crunch in the freezer you can freeze the chopped chicken and dressing in separate airtight containers Thaw in the fridge then toss with fresh slaw mix and toppings just before serving

This salad is so versatile and brings instant brightness to any meal. Give it a try for your next family dinner or gathering!

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I substitute rotisserie chicken with another protein?

Yes, cooked turkey or shredded tofu both work well for a similar taste and texture.

→ Are there nut-free alternatives for the almonds or cashews?

Try roasted sunflower or pumpkin seeds for crunch without nuts.

→ How can I make the dressing creamier?

Add a spoonful of Greek yogurt or a splash of tahini to the dressing blend for a creamy texture.

→ Is it possible to prepare this dish ahead of time?

Prep all components and store separately. Toss with dressing just before serving for best texture.

→ What can I use instead of mandarin oranges?

Fresh orange segments or diced mango offer a fresh, juicy alternative to canned mandarins.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to two days. Keep dressing separate for best results.