Transform leftover roast chicken into a vibrant and flavorful Thai-inspired salad that's ready in minutes! This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a light and satisfying lunch, showcasing the versatility of simple ingredients. Forget boring chicken salad – this recipe bursts with the bright, zesty flavors of Thailand, thanks to a unique blend of fresh herbs, crunchy vegetables, and a tangy lime dressing. The satisfying combination of textures and tastes will quickly become a new favorite.
Forget complicated recipes and lengthy prep times. This Thai-inspired roast chicken salad utilizes your leftover roast chicken, making it both economical and incredibly convenient. Ready to experience the delicious simplicity of this recipe? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions below!
Tools Needed
- Mixing bowl
- Pestle and mortar
Ingredients
- Roast chicken thigh (and/or leg)
- Apple (any type)
- Green beans
- Onion: a small chunk
- Cherry tomatoes
- Garlic
- Chili (bird's eye chilies): 2
- Lime juice
- Fish sauce: 2 tablespoons
- Sugar: 1 1/2 tablespoons
- Crushed peanuts
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Ingredients
- Slice the apple, onion, and cherry tomatoes. Snap the green beans in half.
- Finely chop the garlic and chili. The finer the better for better flavor infusion.
Step 2. Make the Thai Dressing
- Pound the garlic, chili, and cherry tomatoes to release their juices and add flavor.
- Add the green beans to the pestle and mortar and gently pound to bruise them. This helps them absorb the dressing.
- Add the fish sauce and sugar to the pestle and mortar, and mix well to create the dressing.
Step 3. Combine Salad Ingredients
- Transfer the apple, onion, and green beans to a mixing bowl. Add the dressing and gently mix, ensuring the onion absorbs the lime juice.
- Add the cooked chicken thigh (and/or leg), sliced into bite-sized pieces. Gently toss to combine.
Step 4. Serve
- Garnish with crushed peanuts.
Read more: Authentic Thai Bean Sprout Salad (Kerabu Tauge) Recipe
Tips
- The lime juice 'cooks' the raw onion and green beans, giving them a pleasant texture.
- This recipe is great for using up leftover ingredients.
- The final salad has a delightful mix of textures – crunchy apple, juicy tomatoes, and tender chicken.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I use different types of chicken?
Yes! Cooked chicken breast or even shredded rotisserie chicken works perfectly. Just make sure it's fully cooked.
2. What if I don't have all the herbs listed?
No problem! Feel free to substitute with what you have on hand. Cilantro and mint are key for the Thai flavor, but other fresh herbs will work too.
3. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
It's best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the dressing and chop the vegetables ahead of time. Combine everything just before serving to prevent the salad from becoming soggy.
This Thai-inspired roast chicken salad is a testament to how delicious and easy weeknight meals can be. With minimal effort, you've transformed simple ingredients into a vibrant and flavorful dish the whole family will enjoy. So, next time you have leftover roast chicken, skip the mundane and embrace this exciting and refreshing recipe!