This Easy Asian Chicken Cranberry Salad is a fresh and flavorful dish made with tender chicken, crunchy coleslaw mix, sweet dried cranberries, and a light sesame dressing.
Perfect for healthy lunches, light dinners, meal prep, and high-protein salads, this recipe combines sweet and savory flavors with a satisfying crunch.
Quick to prepare and full of nutrients, it’s ideal for busy days when you want something healthy and delicious.
Ingredients
Salad
- 1 bag coleslaw mix (about 6–8 cups)
- 2 cups cooked chicken, chopped (rotisserie chicken works well)
- ½ cup sliced almonds or cashews
- ½ cup dried cranberries
- ¼ cup red onion, finely chopped
- ½ cup mandarin oranges, drained (optional)
- 2 tablespoons sesame seeds
- ½ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
Dressing
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
- ½ teaspoon sesame oil
Instructions
1. Prepare the salad
In a large bowl, combine coleslaw mix, chopped chicken, almonds, dried cranberries, red onion, cilantro, sesame seeds, and mandarin oranges if using.
2. Make the dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, soy sauce, honey, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil until well combined.
3. Combine
Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently until evenly coated.
4. Serve
Serve immediately or refrigerate for 20–30 minutes for enhanced flavor.
Nutrition & Details (approx.)
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Servings: 4
Healthy
High protein
Light meal
Meal prep friendly
