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Chicken Cashew Crunch Salad: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe

Chicken Cashew Crunch Salad

This Chicken Cashew Crunch Salad is a complete meal packed with savory grilled chicken, crisp vegetables, buttery cashews, and the added crunch of chow mein noodles. It's a satisfying yet light dish, perfect for a healthy lunch or a refreshing weeknight dinner. A vibrant, tangy sesame ginger dressing ties all the incredible textures and flavors together beautifully.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Ingredients
  • 2 Chicken Breasts, grilled and sliced
  • 1 large head Romaine Lettuce, chopped
  • 1 Bell Pepper, any color, diced
  • 1 large Carrot, julienned or shredded
  • 1 cup Green Onions, sliced
  • 1 cup Unsalted Cashews, roasted
  • ½ cup Crispy Chow Mein Noodles
  • ¼ cup Fresh Cilantro, chopped (optional)
  • 1/4 cup Soy Sauce
  • 2 tablespoons Honey
  • 2 tablespoons Sesame Oil
  • 2 tablespoons Rice Vinegar
  • 1 clove Garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon Ginger, freshly grated
  • Salt and Pepper to taste

Equipment

  • Grill
  • Large salad bowl
  • Small bowl or jar with lid
  • Whisk

Method
 

Instructions
  1. Season your chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Grill them over medium-high heat for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until fully cooked through. Let them rest for 5 minutes before slicing into thin strips.
  2. While the chicken is grilling and resting, get your salad base ready. In a large salad bowl, combine the chopped romaine lettuce, diced bell pepper, julienned carrot, and sliced green onions.
  3. In a small bowl or a jar with a lid, combine the soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, rice vinegar, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Whisk or shake vigorously until the dressing is well combined and slightly emulsified. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.
  4. Add the roasted cashews and the sliced grilled chicken to the large bowl with the vegetables.
  5. Pour about half of the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat everything. Add more dressing as needed until you reach your desired level of sauciness.
  6. Just before you’re ready to serve, sprinkle the crispy chow mein noodles over the top and add the chopped cilantro, if using. Give it one last gentle toss.
  7. For the best experience and maximum crunch, serve the salad right away.

Notes

Ensure every component is completely cooled before you assemble the salad to prevent wilting. Toast the cashews yourself for better flavor. Use freshly grated ginger and garlic for a more vibrant dressing. To make ahead, store the vegetables, chicken, dressing, cashews, and noodles in separate containers and combine just before serving to maintain crunch.