Paleo Chinese Chicken Salad

This Paleo Chinese Chicken Salad is a vibrant and crunchy salad that bursts with sweet and savory flavors. The almond butter sesame dressing, naturally sweetened with dates, makes this dish compliant with both paleo and Whole30 diets. Ideal for lunches or dinners, it’s not just delicious but also easy to prepare and perfect for meal prep, ensuring you can enjoy fresh flavors any day of the week.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful Dressing: The almond butter sesame dressing adds a rich and sweet taste that elevates the salad.
• Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have a wholesome meal ready in no time.
• Versatile Serving Options: Perfect as a main dish or a side, making it suitable for various occasions.
• Meal Prep Friendly: This salad stores well, allowing you to enjoy leftovers for lunch the next day.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with protein from chicken and healthy fats from nuts, it’s both satisfying and nutritious.

Tools and Preparation

To create this delightful Paleo Chinese Chicken Salad, you’ll need a few essential tools to streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Chef’s knife
• Cutting board
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk or fork
• Skillet

Importance of Each Tool

• Chef’s knife: A sharp knife makes chopping ingredients quick and efficient, ensuring uniform sizes for even cooking.
• Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl allows you to combine all ingredients without spilling, making mixing easier.
• Skillet: A non-stick skillet ensures that the chicken cooks evenly without sticking, enhancing flavor retention.

Ingredients

For this recipe, gather the following ingredients:

For the Dressing

• 3 medjool dates (pitted and softened if necessary by soaking in very hot water for 5 minutes)
• 1/4 cup almond butter
• 3 Tbsp coconut aminos
• 1 Tbsp sesame oil
• 1/2 inch fresh ginger (peeled and chopped)
• 2 cloves garlic (peeled and chopped)
• 2 Tbsp rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)

For the Salad

• 2 cups slaw mix
• 1 cup purple cabbage (shredded)
• 1 bunch scallions (green and white parts, thinly sliced)
• 3/4 cup raw cashews (or almonds, chopped)
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro (chopped)
• 1/2 cup mandarin oranges

For Cooking the Chicken

• 2 Tbsp avocado oil (ghee or coconut oil)
• 1 1/2 lbs chicken thighs (boneless and skinless)
• 3/4 tsp onion powder
• 3/4 tsp garlic powder
• Sea salt and black pepper

How to Make Paleo Chinese Chicken Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Dressing

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the softened medjool dates, almond butter, coconut aminos, sesame oil, ginger, garlic, and rice vinegar.
2. Whisk together until smooth. Set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

1. Heat avocado oil in a skillet over medium heat.
2. Season the chicken thighs with onion powder, garlic powder, sea salt, and black pepper.
3. Add the seasoned chicken to the skillet and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until fully cooked through. Remove from heat and let rest before slicing.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

1. In a large bowl, combine slaw mix, shredded purple cabbage, sliced scallions, chopped cashews or almonds, chopped cilantro, and mandarin oranges.
2. Add the cooked chicken slices on top of the salad mixture.
3. Drizzle with the prepared dressing before tossing everything together to combine well.

Step 4: Serve

Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to one day for enhanced flavors. Enjoy your refreshing Paleo Chinese Chicken Salad!

How to Serve Paleo Chinese Chicken Salad

This delicious Paleo Chinese Chicken Salad is versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you need a light lunch or a satisfying dinner, these serving suggestions will elevate your meal experience.

As a Standalone Meal

• This salad is hearty enough to serve on its own. Just toss everything together and enjoy the vibrant flavors and textures.

In Lettuce Wraps

• Scoop the salad into large lettuce leaves for a fun, low-carb option. The crisp lettuce adds an extra crunch to every bite.

With Extra Protein

• Top your salad with additional protein such as grilled chicken or shrimp for an even more filling dish.

As a Meal Prep Option

• Prepare the salad in advance and store it in individual containers. This makes for easy grab-and-go lunches throughout the week.

With a Side of Fresh Fruit

• Pair the salad with a side of fresh fruit like pineapple or berries. The sweetness complements the savory flavors beautifully.

How to Perfect Paleo Chinese Chicken Salad

To ensure your Paleo Chinese Chicken Salad is absolutely delightful, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh vegetables and herbs enhance flavor and texture, making your salad more enjoyable.
• Adjust Sweetness – Depending on your taste, you can add more dates or reduce them for less sweetness in the dressing.
• Customize Crunch – Feel free to add extra nuts or seeds for additional crunch and nutrition. Sunflower seeds are an excellent option.
• Chill Before Serving – Allowing the salad to chill in the fridge for 30 minutes lets all the flavors meld together beautifully.
• Experiment with Proteins – While chicken thighs are perfect, try turkey or beef for a different taste profile that keeps this dish exciting.

Best Side Dishes for Paleo Chinese Chicken Salad

Pairing side dishes with your Paleo Chinese Chicken Salad can enhance your meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Crispy Roasted Vegetables – Toss seasonal vegetables in olive oil and roast until crispy for a warm side that complements the salad well.
2. Zucchini Noodles – Lightly sauté zucchini noodles with garlic and olive oil to create a low-carb pasta option alongside your salad.
3. Cauliflower Rice – Fluffy cauliflower rice is great as a side, offering texture without adding many carbs.
4. Sweet Potato Wedges – Baked sweet potato wedges provide natural sweetness and fiber, balancing the savory notes of the salad.
5. Steamed Broccoli – A simple steamed broccoli side adds color and nutrients without overpowering the main dish.
6. Avocado Slices – Add fresh avocado slices on the side for creaminess that pairs perfectly with crunchy salads.
7. Kimchi – This fermented side dish brings tangy flavors that contrast nicely with the sweet elements of your salad.
8. Coconut Chia Pudding – For something sweet after your meal, this pudding made with coconut milk is both healthy and satisfying.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Paleo Chinese Chicken Salad, it’s easy to overlook some details. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Using regular soy sauce: Many people mistakenly use soy sauce instead of coconut aminos. Coconut aminos are a great substitute that is paleo compliant.

• Overcooking the chicken: Cooking chicken thighs too long can make them dry. Aim for a juicy texture by monitoring cooking time closely.
• Skipping the dressing: Some may forget to make or add the almond butter sesame dressing, which is crucial for flavor. Always prepare this dressing ahead of time.
• Not checking labels: When using canned ingredients like Mandarin oranges, it’s important to check for added sugars or preservatives that aren’t Whole30 compliant.
• Ignoring freshness: Using wilted vegetables can affect the texture and taste of your salad. Always use fresh produce for the best crunch and flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Best consumed within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Paleo Chinese Chicken Salad

• Freezing is not recommended due to the texture changes in vegetables.
• If necessary, freeze only the chicken separately and store for up to 2 months.

Reheating Paleo Chinese Chicken Salad

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and reheat covered until warmed through (about 15 minutes).
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts of 1-minute intervals, stirring in between until warm.
• Stovetop: Warm on low heat in a skillet, stirring gently to avoid overcooking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Paleo Chinese Chicken Salad.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes! This salad can be prepared a day in advance. Just keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve.

What can I use instead of chicken thighs?

You can substitute chicken breast or even turkey if you prefer a leaner protein option while still keeping it paleo-friendly.

Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! It holds well in the fridge and makes a fantastic lunch option throughout the week.

Can I customize my Paleo Chinese Chicken Salad?

Yes! Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or cucumbers for more crunch and variety.

Final Thoughts

This Paleo Chinese Chicken Salad is not only delicious but also versatile. Its crunchy textures combined with sweet and savory flavors make it an appealing dish for any meal. Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite veggies or nuts!