Kale Peanut Chicken Salad

Savor the Fresh Delights of Kale Peanut Chicken Salad

Embark on a refreshing journey with this Kale Peanut Chicken Salad recipe, a vibrant dish that combines nutrient-rich greens, tender chicken, and crunchy peanuts with a creamy, tangy peanut dressing. This wholesome salad brings together color, texture, and bold flavors in every bite, offering the perfect balance of health and indulgence.

Whether you’re planning a light lunch, a flavorful side for dinner, or a crowd-pleasing dish for a gathering, this salad transforms everyday ingredients into something extraordinary. The combination of kale, cabbage, and herbs creates a crisp, refreshing base, while shredded chicken and peanuts add protein and crunch.

Ideal for meal prep, healthy eating, or entertaining, this recipe captures the essence of a salad that is both nourishing and satisfying. Ready to elevate your salad game with bold flavors and creamy peanut goodness? Let’s dive into this straightforward and rewarding recipe.

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Flavorful and Nutritious: Your New Go-To Kale Peanut Chicken Salad

This Kale Peanut Chicken Salad not only celebrates leafy greens but also amps up the flavor with fresh herbs, roasted peanuts, and a rich peanut butter dressing. It’s not just a salad; it’s a meal that’s full of protein, fiber, and flavor.

By massaging the kale, you soften its natural bitterness, turning it into a tender green that pairs beautifully with the crunch of cabbage. Add in chicken for substance, and you have a dish that’s hearty enough to stand alone yet light enough to complement other meals.

Here’s how you can achieve a refreshing, protein-packed salad, complete with professional tips to ensure every bite is flavorful and satisfying.

Serving Suggestions: Serve this salad on its own for a complete meal, or pair it with grilled fish, dumplings, or crusty bread.

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Pro Tips for the Perfect Kale Peanut Chicken Salad

1. Massage the Kale: Don’t skip this step—massaging helps soften the kale and makes it tender and easier to eat.
2. Balance the Dressing: Adjust the honey or vinegar to create the perfect balance of sweet and tangy.
3. Use Fresh Herbs: Mint and cilantro add brightness and depth; don’t substitute them if possible.
4. Toast the Peanuts: Lightly toasting dry-roasted peanuts intensifies their flavor and crunch.
5. Serve Fresh: Enjoy immediately after tossing for the best flavor and texture, though it holds well for a few hours.

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Kale Peanut Chicken Salad Recipe

• Preparation time: 20 minutes
• Cooking time: 0 minutes
• Servings: 6
• Equipment: Large mixing bowl, whisk, sharp knife, salad tongs

With this Kale Peanut Chicken Salad tossed together, your kitchen will feel full of freshness, color, and vibrant flavors.

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Ingredients:

Salad Ingredients:

• 1 large bunch curly kale or 2 medium bunches lacinato kale, stemmed (about 8 ounces)
• 3 cups shredded savoy cabbage (about ½ small head)
• ¼ teaspoon fine sea salt
• ¾ cup dry-roasted peanuts, finely chopped
• ⅓ cup roughly chopped fresh mint leaves
• ⅓ cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 3 green onions, thinly sliced (about ½ cup)
• Shredded meat from 1 small rotisserie chicken (about 3 cups)

Dressing Ingredients:

• 5 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 3 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 2 tablespoons creamy peanut butter (natural or regular)
• 2 teaspoons toasted sesame oil
• 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon honey
• ¼ teaspoon fine sea salt
• ⅛ teaspoon ground cayenne pepper

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Directions:

1. Massage the Greens: Slice kale into thin ribbons, then chop into bite-sized pieces. You should have about 8 cups total. Place kale in a large bowl with cabbage. Sprinkle with salt. Gently massage handfuls of greens until the kale softens and turns deep green.
2. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl or measuring cup, whisk olive oil, vinegar, peanut butter, sesame oil, mustard, honey, salt, and cayenne until smooth and creamy. Adjust seasoning as needed.
3. Toss the Salad: Pour half the dressing over the kale mixture and stir to combine. Add peanuts, mint, cilantro, green onions, and chicken. Toss gently, adding more dressing until the salad is well coated.
4. Serve Fresh: Enjoy immediately, or refrigerate for up to 3 hours before serving.

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Ready to Relish!

This dish offers a fabulous taste experience and brings the joy of a hearty, refreshing salad into the comfort of your home. The Kale Peanut Chicken Salad combines vibrant greens, creamy dressing, and satisfying crunch for a truly complete meal.

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