This Mandarin Orange Chicken Salad is a bright and tasty mix of juicy chicken, sweet mandarin oranges, and crunchy greens. It’s perfect for lunch or a light dinner!
I love how refreshing this salad is, especially with a drizzle of honey dressing. It always puts a smile on my face. Plus, you can whip it up in no time!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect here. For a quicker option, rotisserie chicken works wonders too. Just shred it and mix it in for extra flavor!
Salad Greens: A mix of romaine and radicchio adds color and crunch, but you can swap in whatever greens you have. Spinach or arugula can add a nice touch and change the flavor profile a bit.
Mandarin Oranges: Fresh mandarins are great, but canned segments in juice (not syrup) work just as well. You can even use fresh pineapple if you want to try something different!
Dressing Ingredients: Use tamari instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free option. For a vegetarian alternative, replace honey with maple syrup or agave nectar, and consider adding sesame seeds for flavor and crunch.
What’s the Key to Mixing Salads Without Making a Mess?
When preparing salads, it’s easy to mix too aggressively and create chaos! Here are some tips to keep everything nice and even without spilling:
- Start with the salad greens and carrots in the bowl, gently toss them with your hands or salad tongs first.
- Add the chicken and mandarin oranges last, tossing gently to avoid breaking the fruit.
- Drizzle the dressing over the top instead of mixing it in all at once – this helps control the amount and prevents sogginess.
- Redistribute toppings like peanuts and green onions at the end for a beautiful finish.
With these tips, you’ll create a salad that’s not only gorgeous but also full of flavor!
Mandarin Orange Chicken Salad
Ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked and diced
- 6 cups mixed salad greens (e.g., romaine, radicchio)
- 1 cup mandarin orange segments (fresh or canned, drained)
- 1/2 cup shredded carrots
- 3 green onions, sliced
- 1/3 cup chopped roasted peanuts
For the Dressing:
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes for heat
Time Needed:
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time, plus a little time for cooking the chicken if not already done. It’s quick, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a delightful lunch!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
First, cook your chicken breasts by grilling, baking, or pan-searing them until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Once cooked, let them cool for just a bit, then chop them into bite-sized pieces.
2. Mix the Salad Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the mixed salad greens, shredded carrots, and mandarin orange segments. This bright mix is sure to look appealing!
3. Add the Chicken:
Gently add the diced chicken to the bowl and toss everything together. Be careful not to squish the mandarin oranges!
4. Whisk the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, toasted sesame oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, and a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a little spice. This dressing will make the salad pop with flavor!
5. Dress the Salad:
Drizzle the dressing over the salad mixture, then toss lightly again to coat everything evenly.
6. Add Final Touches:
Sprinkle the chopped roasted peanuts and sliced green onions on top for a nice crunch and a pop of color.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the salad immediately for a fresh, crisp experience. Enjoy your vibrant and flavorful Mandarin Orange Chicken Salad!
Can I Use Leftover Chicken for This Salad?
Absolutely! Leftover roasted or grilled chicken is perfect for this salad. Just be sure to shred or dice it into bite-sized pieces before adding it to your greens.
How Can I Make This Salad Vegetarian?
To make this salad vegetarian, simply replace the chicken with a plant-based protein like chickpeas, tofu, or quinoa. You can also add more veggies for extra texture and nutrients!
Can I Make the Dressing in Advance?
Yes, the dressing can be made a day in advance and stored in the fridge. Just give it a good shake or whisk before using, as the ingredients may separate over time.
What Should I Serve with This Salad?
This salad pairs well with a side of rice or some crusty bread for a complete meal. Alternatively, you could serve it with sesame crackers for a light snack!
