Can I make Asian Chicken Cranberry Salad without sesame oil?

Yes. It will lose some of that toasted flavor, but you can add a little extra ginger and a few more sesame seeds to help. A mild oil like avocado oil also works.

What is the best chicken to use if I am short on time?

Rotisserie chicken, hands down. Just pull it apart, remove the skin if you want, and you are ready.

Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?

I would not swap them directly. Fresh cranberries are very tart and crunchy. If you want a fresh fruit twist, try mandarin oranges or sliced apples.

How do I keep it from getting soggy at a party?

Keep the dressing separate until right before serving, and add crunchy toppings at the last minute. Also use coleslaw mix since it holds up longer than delicate greens.

Is this salad kid friendly?

Usually yes. If your kids are sensitive to strong flavors, use a little less ginger and garlic, and keep chili flakes out.

Delicious Asian Chicken Cranberry Salad

Name: Asian Chicken Cranberry Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 4 cups greens or coleslaw mix (Any mix of romaine, spring mix, or a crunchy cabbage blend can be used.); 2 cups cooked chicken (Shredded or cubed, rotisserie or grilled preferred.); 1 cup dried cranberries (For chew and sweetness.); 1/2 cup almonds or cashews (For crunch and richness.); 2 tablespoons sesame seeds (Toasted for nuttiness.); 2 tablespoons green onion (Chopped for freshness.); 1/4 cup soy sauce (Can substitute with gluten-free tamari.); 2 tablespoons rice vinegar (Provides tang.); 2 tablespoons sesame oil (A little goes a long way.); 2 teaspoons honey (For sweetness.); 1 teaspoon fresh ginger (Grated for freshness.); 1 clove garlic (Minced for flavor.)

Description

A fresh and satisfying salad featuring crunchy greens, tender chicken, and tart cranberries, all tossed in a flavorful sesame ginger dressing.

Ingredients

Salad Base

4 cups greens or coleslaw mix (Any mix of romaine, spring mix, or a crunchy cabbage blend can be used.)
2 cups cooked chicken (Shredded or cubed, rotisserie or grilled preferred.)

Crunchy & Sweet Add-Ins

1 cup dried cranberries (For chew and sweetness.)
1/2 cup almonds or cashews (For crunch and richness.)
2 tablespoons sesame seeds (Toasted for nuttiness.)
2 tablespoons green onion (Chopped for freshness.)

Sesame Ginger Dressing

1/4 cup soy sauce (Can substitute with gluten-free tamari.)
2 tablespoons rice vinegar (Provides tang.)
2 tablespoons sesame oil (A little goes a long way.)
2 teaspoons honey (For sweetness.)
1 teaspoon fresh ginger (Grated for freshness.)
1 clove garlic (Minced for flavor.)

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Instructions

Preparation

Add greens or coleslaw mix to a big bowl.
Add cooked chicken on top.
Sprinkle in dried cranberries, nuts, sesame seeds, and green onion.
Whisk dressing in a small bowl until smooth.
Drizzle a little dressing, toss, taste, then add more if needed.

Notes

For the best texture, keep the dressing separate until ready to serve. Store nuts separately during meal prep to maintain crunch. To customize, add mandarin oranges or crispy toppings like chow mein noodles.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Category: Dinner, Lunch, Salad
Cuisine: Asian, Fusion