Asian Chicken Cranberry Salad

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Bright, flavorful, and packed with texture, this Asian Chicken Cranberry Salad is your answer to light but satisfying meals. Think crisp lettuce, juicy roasted chicken breast, bursts of dried cranberries, and the crunch of peanuts and sesame seeds. It’s the kind of salad that skips the boring and dives straight into bold.

The sweet-tangy Asian-inspired dressing pulls everything together beautifully. Whether you’re prepping lunch for the week or serving guests something memorable, this dish adds just the right mix of freshness, protein, and flair to your table.

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Ingredients for this Asian Chicken Cranberry Salad

• 2 cooked chicken breasts, sliced
• 6 cups fresh romaine or green leaf lettuce, torn
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries
• 1/3 cup roasted peanuts (or cashews for a twist)
• 2 tablespoons sesame seeds
• 1/2 cup fresh cranberries (optional, for tart bursts)
• 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion
• 1/3 cup Asian sesame dressing (store-bought or homemade)
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Step 1: Prep the Chicken

Use either leftover cooked chicken or roast fresh chicken breasts seasoned simply with salt and pepper. Once cooled, slice into strips or bite-sized chunks.

Step 2: Assemble the Greens

Wash and dry your romaine or green leaf lettuce thoroughly. Tear into bite-size pieces and add to a large salad bowl as your base.

Step 3: Add the Crunch and Color

Sprinkle in the dried cranberries, roasted peanuts, sesame seeds, and fresh cranberries (if using). Thinly slice red onion and add for a sharp edge to balance the sweetness.

Step 4: Top with Chicken

Lay the sliced chicken evenly across the top. This keeps the presentation beautiful and lets everyone see the star protein.

Step 5: Dress and Toss

Drizzle your Asian sesame dressing over the entire salad. Start with a third of a cup, then adjust to taste. Toss gently to combine everything without bruising the lettuce.

Step 6: Taste and Serve

Season with a bit of salt and freshly cracked pepper, then give it a final toss. Serve immediately for the freshest flavor and crunch.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use rotisserie chicken instead?

Absolutely. Rotisserie chicken is a quick, flavorful substitute that works well in this salad.

What kind of lettuce is best?

Romaine or green leaf lettuce offers the right crunch and structure to hold up the toppings and dressing.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, just store each component separately and assemble when ready to serve.

Is the dressing spicy?

Typically, Asian sesame dressings are tangy and slightly sweet, not spicy. You can add a splash of sriracha if you’d like heat.

What other toppings can I add?

Mandarin oranges, shredded carrots, or crunchy wonton strips make great additions for more flavor and texture.

Is this gluten-free?

Check your dressing label. Some sesame dressings include soy sauce which contains gluten. Use tamari-based or gluten-free alternatives if needed.

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