Asian Chicken Cranberry Salad: Easy Lunch Ideas For Special Occasions

Name: Asian Chicken Cranberry Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded; 1/2 cup dried cranberries; 1 cup shredded cabbage; 1/2 cup shredded carrots; 1/4 cup thinly sliced green onions; 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro; 1/4 cup sliced almonds; 2 tbsp soy sauce; 1 tbsp honey; 1 tbsp rice vinegar; 1 tsp sesame oil; 1/2 tsp freshly grated ginger

By: John.Morgan35 | Published onFebruary 7, 2026

Delicious Asian Chicken Cranberry Salad in a bowl, perfect for special occasions

Light And Fresh Meals

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There’s Something Special About This Salad

If you’re on the hunt for a delicious and colorful salad that ticks all the boxes for flavor, texture, and satisfaction, look no further than the Asian Chicken Cranberry Salad. Perfect as a light lunch or a side dish for dinner, this salad is easy to whip up after a busy day, making it the ultimate weeknight meal. The combination of tender chicken, crunchy veggies, and sweet-tart cranberries entwined with a zesty dressing creates an explosion of flavors that keeps you going back for more.

“This Asian Chicken Cranberry Salad is a delightful mix! I made it for a quick lunch, and my kids couldn’t stop raving about it!” – A Happy Home Cook

Why You’ll Fall for This Dish

There are so many reasons to try this Asian Chicken Cranberry Salad. First off, it’s a breeze to prepare, making it a fantastic choice for weeknight dinners or meal prep on Sundays. With just a few ingredients, you can create a dish that looks and tastes like it took hours to prepare. Plus, it’s packed with nutrients—protein from the chicken, fiber from the veggies, and antioxidants from the cranberries, making it a wholesome option that appeals to health-conscious eaters.

Not to mention, it’s budget-friendly! Most of the ingredients are pantry staples or can be found at your local grocery store without breaking the bank. On top of everything, the vibrant colors and enticing flavors make it appealing to both adults and kids alike, turning any meal into a festive occasion.

Step-by-Step Overview

Making this Asian Chicken Cranberry Salad is not only quick but also incredibly straightforward. First, you’ll gather all your main ingredients and toss them together in a large bowl. Then, mix up a simple yet delicious dressing that brings all those flavors together. Finally, drizzle the dressing over the salad right before serving. Oh, and don’t forget to save the crunchy almonds for the last sprinkle on top! This method keeps everything fresh and adds a delightful texture.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To create this mouthwatering salad, you’ll need to gather the following ingredients:

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
1/2 cup dried cranberries
1 cup shredded cabbage
1/2 cup shredded carrots
1/4 cup thinly sliced green onions
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
1/4 cup sliced almonds
2 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp honey
1 tbsp rice vinegar
1 tsp sesame oil
1/2 tsp freshly grated ginger

Feel free to customize this dish! You can substitute the chicken with tofu for a vegetarian option or swap out the almonds for peanuts, depending on your taste preference. This flexibility makes it easy to cater to dietary needs or personal cravings.

Directions to Follow

Start with a Bowl: Grab a nice large bowl and add the shredded chicken, shredded cabbage, shredded carrots, dried cranberries, sliced green onions, and chopped cilantro.
Toss the Ingredients: Gently toss everything together to blend the colors and textures. However, hold off on adding the almonds for now!
Whisk the Dressing: In a small bowl or a glass jar with a lid, combine the soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and grated ginger. Whisk with a fork or shake the jar until the honey dissolves and everything is well combined.
Dress the Salad: Right before serving, pour the dressing over your salad. Toss everything gently to ensure the mixture is lightly coated—this keeps your cabbage and carrots crisp.
Add the Crunch: Finally, sprinkle the sliced almonds over the top for that satisfying crunch. And just like that, your lunch is ready!

Best Ways to Enjoy It

This salad shines on its own, but if you’re feeling creative, consider pairing it with some grilled shrimp or chicken skewers for a complete meal. It also goes wonderfully with a side of warm brown rice or quinoa for added substance. For a refreshing drink, a light iced tea or lemonade complements the flavors beautifully. When it comes to presentation, serve it in a large bowl family-style or on individual plates for an elegant touch at your next gathering.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, they can be safely stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just remember to keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat, as this will help the salad maintain its crispness. Unfortunately, this salad isn’t ideal for freezing due to the cabbage and carrots losing their texture once thawed.

Pro Chef Tips

Here are a few tips to elevate your salad-making skills:

Go for Quality: Use high-quality soy sauce and honey; they make a noticeable difference in flavor.
Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh veggies whenever possible. This ensures the best texture and taste.
Experiment with Flavors: Don’t hesitate to play around with the dressing by adding a splash of lime juice or a pinch of chili flakes for some heat!

Creative Twists

Feeling adventurous? Here are some variations you might try:

Tropical Touch: Add in some diced mango or pineapple for a sweet tropical flair.
Spicy Kick: Incorporate some crushed red pepper or sriracha into the dressing for those who enjoy a spicy element.
Nut-Free Option: Substitute sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for those allergic to nuts.

Your Questions Answered

1. What is the prep time for this salad?

Prep time for the Asian Chicken Cranberry Salad is just about 15 minutes, making it a quick and delightful meal option!

2. Can I use raw chicken instead of cooked?

You can use raw chicken, but you’ll need to cook and shred it beforehand. Grilling or poaching are great methods for cooking chicken for this recipe.

3. Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! The salad keeps well in the fridge, especially if you store the dressing separately until serving.

4. What if I have leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge, and they’ll last for up to three days. Keep the dressing separated to maintain the crunch of the salad.

5. Is there a vegetarian version of this salad?

Yes! You can easily substitute shredded chicken with tofu or chickpeas for a protein-packed vegetarian alternative.

6. Can I add other fruits or vegetables?

Sure! Feel free to incorporate diced apples or bell peppers for added flavor and crunch.

7. How do I store the almonds?

Keep the sliced almonds in an airtight container, and they should remain fresh for weeks. Add them to the salad just before serving to retain their crunch.

8. What are some good side dishes to serve with this salad?

Consider pairing it with warm rice, grilled meats, or even a refreshing fruit salad for a light, balanced meal.

This Asian Chicken Cranberry Salad is sure to become a favorite in your meal rotation, thanks to its vibrant flavors and versatility. Enjoy!