Chicken Cashew Crunch Salad

Chicken Cashew Crunch Salad combines everything I crave in a satisfying lunch or light dinner—juicy grilled chicken, crisp veggies, a zippy homemade dressing, and an irresistible crunch from cashews and chow mein noodles. The medley of flavors and textures in each bite keeps things interesting, and it is a recipe I reach for every time I want something fresh but filling that never gets boring.

I started making this after craving a restaurant salad at home and now it is requested during every family picnic or backyard dinner. It is always a hit and the leftovers are even better the next day.

Ingredients

• Chicken breasts: grilled and sliced for hearty protein choose ones without added solutions for best flavor
• Romaine lettuce: chopped brings crispness and holds up well to generous toppings look for a firm head with deep green leaves
• Bell pepper: diced adds sweetness and pretty color opt for ones that feel heavy and glossy
• Carrot: julienned delivers vibrant crunch and color try to pick carrots that are firm and bright orange
• Green onions: sliced give gentle onion flavor and freshness look for unwilted bright stems
• Unsalted cashews: roasted provide the salad’s signature crunch and creamy flavor select golden cashews with a pleasant snap
• Crispy chow mein noodles: add a playful topping choose high quality noodles for the best crunch
• Fresh cilantro: chopped optional introduces herbal brightness to the dish only use leaves that are green and perky

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Chicken:

Grill chicken breasts over medium heat for about eight to ten minutes per side or until cooked through and juices run clear Let them rest for five minutes before slicing into strips so they stay moist

Chop the Vegetables:

In a large wide bowl combine chopped romaine lettuce diced bell pepper julienned carrot and sliced green onions Use your hands to toss everything so the colors are evenly distributed

Add Cashews:

Toss roasted unsalted cashews into the bowl dispersing them throughout so each bite lands a bit of crunch You will want to gently mix so the cashews stay whole

Make the Dressing:

In a small bowl whisk together soy sauce honey sesame oil rice vinegar minced garlic and grated ginger Taste and adjust with a pinch of salt and pepper as you like The dressing should be glossy and balanced between tangy and sweet

Combine Ingredients:

Drizzle the dressing all over the salad Mix with tongs until every ingredient is coated and glistening being careful not to bruise the lettuce

Add Chicken:

Fold in the sliced grilled chicken arranging it throughout the salad so there is chicken in every scoop

Top with Noodles:

Sprinkle crispy chow mein noodles over the assembled salad just before serving so they keep that signature crunch

Garnish:

Scatter chopped cilantro on top if desired for a fresh herbal note that brightens up the flavors

Serve Immediately:

Transfer the salad to plates or a big platter serving right away so every element is at its peak crispness and flavor

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Cashews are my favorite ingredient here Their rich buttery flavor makes this salad taste indulgent yet nourishing I remember my kids picking out extra cashews every time which always makes me smile

Storage Tips

This salad is best enjoyed fresh for maximum crunch but it can be made in advance with a few tweaks If prepping ahead keep dressing cashews and chow mein noodles separate from the vegetables and grilled chicken Store everything in airtight containers in the fridge When ready to serve gently toss together and top with the noodles right before eating for the best texture Leftovers will keep well for up to two days but the noodles may soften slightly

Ingredient Substitutions

You can easily swap proteins and vegetables to fit what you have on hand Shredded rotisserie chicken works beautifully in place of grilled Use spinach or mixed greens rather than romaine if that is what you have Red or orange bell pepper both add color Try toasted sliced almonds if you are out of cashews or add edamame for extra plant protein Rice sticks can even step in for the chow mein crunch in a pinch

Serving Suggestions

This salad is filling enough for a meal but also pairs well with light side dishes For a larger spread serve it alongside steamed dumplings rice paper rolls or coconut jasmine rice If you want to serve as a starter use smaller plates and offer it before a spicy Asian noodle main I love piling leftovers into lettuce cups for a fun twist the next day

Cultural Roots

Chicken Cashew Crunch Salad blends flavors from Chinese American cuisine with the bright crunch of fresh vegetables and a lightly sweet dressing Cashews are often found in stir fries and crunchy noodle salads across Asia and America alike The salad format makes it both familiar and special at any gathering or weekday meal

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This crowd pleaser is as good for outdoor picnics as it is for cozy weekday dinners The mix of flavors and textures always reminds me of a summer evening spent outdoors with friends everyone reaching for seconds and wondering why salads do not always taste this good

Frequently Asked Questions

→ What type of chicken works best?

Grilled boneless, skinless chicken breasts work well for a tender, flavorful addition, but rotisserie or leftover chicken can also be used.

→ Can I substitute other nuts for cashews?

Yes, toasted almonds or peanuts deliver a similar crunch and pair well with the salad's flavors.

→ Is the dressing spicy?

No, the dressing is tangy and savory. To add heat, mix in a pinch of red pepper flakes or sriracha.

→ Can the salad be prepared in advance?

You can prepare all ingredients ahead, but toss with the dressing and add crunchy noodles just before serving to maintain texture.

→ How can I make this vegetarian?

Replace the chicken with marinated tofu or tempeh for a plant-based option that complements the crisp vegetables and cashews.

→ Do I need to use all the listed vegetables?

No, you can substitute or omit ingredients to your taste—try adding snap peas or red cabbage for variety.