Chicken Cashew Crunch Salad Recipe

If you’re looking for a vibrant, flavorful, and wonderfully textured salad that feels like a celebration in every bite, the Chicken Cashew Crunch Salad is an absolute must-try. This dish perfectly balances tender grilled chicken with crisp romaine, vibrant shredded cabbage and carrots, and that addictive crunch from toasted cashews and crispy wonton strips. Paired with a tangy sesame soy vinaigrette, it’s not just a salad, it’s a full experience that’s as satisfying as it is delicious.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in the Chicken Cashew Crunch Salad plays a key role, from the protein-packed grilled chicken to the colorful veggies and crunchy toppings that bring texture and vibrant flavor contrast. Getting these simple but essential ingredients right sets the foundation for a truly unforgettable dish.

• Grilled chicken breast (2 cups, sliced): The star protein, juicy and tender, providing hearty substance and flavor.
• Romaine lettuce (3 cups, chopped): Crisp and refreshing, adding a light green crunch to every bite.
• Shredded red cabbage (1 cup): Offers vibrant color and a slight earthiness, plus a satisfying crunch.
• Shredded carrots (1 cup): Adds natural sweetness and bright orange hue, balancing savory elements.
• Toasted cashews (1/2 cup): Brings rich, nutty crunch that’s absolutely addictive when sprinkled on top.
• Sliced green onions (1/4 cup): Adds a subtle sharpness and fresh aroma that brightens the salad.
• Crispy wonton strips (1/2 cup, optional): Enhances the Chicken Cashew Crunch Salad with an ultra-crispy texture and a hint of saltiness.
• Sesame seeds (2 tablespoons): Tiny bursts of nuttiness that also elevate the salad’s look with a subtle decorative touch.
• Sesame soy vinaigrette (1/4 cup): The perfect tangy and savory dressing that brings all components together harmoniously.

How to Make Chicken Cashew Crunch Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by grilling or pan-cooking the chicken breast until it’s cooked through and juicy. Let it cool completely before slicing it thinly—this ensures every bite is tender and easy to mix with the other ingredients.

Step 2: Chop the Veggies

While the chicken cools, chop the romaine lettuce and shred both the red cabbage and carrots. The freshness and crunch of these vegetables are essential to create that signature texture combination in the Chicken Cashew Crunch Salad.

Step 3: Toast the Cashews

In a dry pan over medium heat, toast the cashews for about 5 to 7 minutes, stirring frequently. Toasting enhances their natural nuttiness and adds a deeper flavor note that can’t be skipped.

Step 4: Combine the Dressing

Whisk together the sesame soy vinaigrette ingredients or use a high-quality store-bought version for convenience. This dressing is the glue that ties the salad’s complex flavors together with its perfect balance of savory and tangy.

Step 5: Toss Everything Together

In a large bowl, combine the chopped romaine, shredded cabbage and carrots, sliced chicken, and green onions. Pour the dressing over everything and toss gently but thoroughly to evenly coat.

Step 6: Add the Finishing Touches

Sprinkle the toasted cashews and sesame seeds on top. If you love extra crunch, add crispy wonton strips right before serving to keep them from getting soggy. This final step completes the beautiful texture layers that make Chicken Cashew Crunch Salad so memorable.

How to Serve Chicken Cashew Crunch Salad

Garnishes

Consider additional garnishes like fresh cilantro for a burst of herbal brightness or a light drizzle of chili oil to add some heat. These little touches can elevate the salad visually and flavor-wise, making it your own signature dish.

Side Dishes

The vibrant, crunchy nature of this salad pairs wonderfully with simple sides like steamed jasmine rice or light miso soup. These help balance the textures and keep everything feeling fresh and satisfying.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the Chicken Cashew Crunch Salad in large bowls for a casual family-style meal, or plate individual portions lined with lettuce leaves as edible cups for elegant entertaining. You can even skewer the chicken separately for guests to add at will, letting everyone customize their crunch experience to their liking.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store the salad components separately. Keep the grilled chicken, chopped veggies, and dressing in airtight containers. Add crunchy cashews and wonton strips just before serving to maintain their texture and flavor.

Freezing

This salad isn’t ideal for freezing because the fresh vegetables and dressing lose their texture upon thawing. However, grilled chicken breast can be frozen separately if you want to prep ahead; just thaw and slice before assembling the salad.

Reheating

Since this salad shines best fresh and cold, avoid reheating it. If you must warm the chicken, do so gently and separately, then let it cool before mixing. This approach keeps the bright, crisp qualities of the vegetables intact.

FAQs

Can I use other nuts instead of cashews?

Absolutely! Almonds, peanuts, or pecans can work well too. Just toast them to bring out their flavor and keep that satisfying crunch.

Is the sesame soy vinaigrette difficult to make?

Not at all! Most recipes use simple pantry staples like soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, and a little sweetener. It comes together in minutes and tastes far better than store-bought versions.

Can I make this salad vegan or vegetarian?

Definitely. Substitute the grilled chicken with tofu or tempeh, and choose or make a vegetarian-friendly vinaigrette. The salad remains delicious and packed with texture.

How long will the salad stay fresh?

When kept properly with components stored separately, it stays fresh for up to 2 days. Adding crunchy toppings just before serving is key.

What’s the best way to grill chicken for this salad?

Marinate the chicken briefly in a bit of soy sauce, garlic, and ginger if you like, then grill over medium heat until juicy and fully cooked. Rest it before slicing thinly for the best texture.

Final Thoughts

Chicken Cashew Crunch Salad is truly one of those dishes that makes you excited to eat healthy. Its vibrant colors, irresistible textures, and bold flavors come together effortlessly, perfect for lunch or a light dinner. I encourage you to try this recipe soon—you might just find yourself making it your go-to salad for any occasion!

Print