Mandarin Chicken Salad

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Mandarin Chicken Salad is a fresh, flavorful dish that combines juicy grilled chicken, sweet mandarins, and a variety of crunchy vegetables. The bright, citrusy dressing ties everything together, making this salad the perfect balance of savory, sweet, and tangy. Whether as a light lunch, a side dish, or a main course, this salad is both satisfying and refreshing, perfect for any season.

Ingredients

this Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Salad:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, grilled and sliced
• 1 cup mandarin oranges, drained (canned or fresh)
• 4 cups mixed salad greens (spinach, lettuce, or arugula)
• 1/2 cucumber, thinly sliced
• 1/2 red bell pepper, julienned
• 1/4 cup shredded carrots
• 1/4 cup sliced almonds (toasted)
• 1/4 cup sesame seeds (optional)
• 1/4 cup green onions, chopped

For the Dressing:

• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon fresh grated ginger
• 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon lime juice
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Directions

For the Salad:

1. Grill the chicken breasts over medium heat for about 6-7 minutes per side or until fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C). Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing.
2. In a large salad bowl, combine the mixed salad greens, cucumber, red bell pepper, shredded carrots, and mandarins.
3. Add the grilled chicken slices on top of the salad, followed by the sliced almonds, sesame seeds, and green onions.

For the Dressing:

1. In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, sesame oil, grated ginger, garlic, lime juice, salt, and pepper until well combined.
2. Taste and adjust the seasoning, adding more honey for sweetness or lime juice for extra tang.

To Serve:

1. Drizzle the dressing over the salad just before serving and toss to combine. Serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves 4.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 10-15 minutes (for chicken)
Total time: 25-30 minutes

Variations

• Add avocado slices for extra creaminess and richness.
• Substitute grilled shrimp or tofu for the chicken to make it a seafood or vegetarian option.
• Add crispy wonton strips for extra crunch and flavor.
• For a spicier version, toss in a few chili flakes or a drizzle of sriracha in the dressing.

Storage/Reheating

Store the salad and dressing separately in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
The salad is best served fresh, but if storing, keep the dressing on the side to prevent the greens from wilting.

FAQs

Can I use other fruits in this salad?
Yes, you can swap mandarins for other citrus fruits like oranges or grapefruit, or even try apples or pears for a different flavor.

Can I use leftover chicken for this salad?
Absolutely! Leftover grilled or roasted chicken works perfectly in this salad.

Is this salad gluten-free?
Yes, this salad is gluten-free if you use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce in the dressing.

Can I make the dressing ahead of time?
Yes, the dressing can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Conclusion

Mandarin Chicken Salad is a light yet satisfying meal that’s full of flavor and crunch. With its bright citrus dressing, tender chicken, and fresh veggies, it’s a versatile dish that can be enjoyed year-round. Whether you’re making it for lunch, dinner, or as a side dish, it’s sure to become a go-to recipe for quick, healthy, and delicious meals!

Print