Vietnamese Crunchy Chicken Salad

Experience the tantalizing flavors of Vietnamese Crunchy Chicken Salad, a dish that captures the essence of a beloved Vietnamese restaurant in Cleveland. Erin Schillo from Sagamore Hills, Ohio, has crafted her own easy-to-make version of this delectable salad, featuring a perfect blend of components and flavors that will leave you craving for more. This delightful creation has earned the admiration of everyone who tastes it, and now you can savor its vibrant taste in the comfort of your own home.

INGREDIENTS:

• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lime juice
• 1 tablespoon minced fresh cilantro
• 1½ teaspoons grated lime peel
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon pepper
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into thin strips

DRESSING:

• ½ cup olive oil
• ¼ cup lime juice
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1 tablespoon grated lime peel
• ¾ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
• ¼ teaspoon pepper

SALAD:

• 5 cups thinly sliced cabbage (about 1 pound)
• 1 cup minced fresh cilantro
• 1 cup julienned carrots
• 1 cup salted peanuts, coarsely chopped

PREPARATIONS:

1. In a large bowl, mix the olive oil, lime juice, minced cilantro, grated lime peel, salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper. Add the thin strips of chicken and toss them to coat evenly. Cover the bowl and refrigerate it for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to marinate.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the dressing ingredients.
3. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, stir-fry half of the marinated chicken mixture for 4-5 minutes or until it is no longer pink. Remove the cooked chicken from the skillet and repeat the process with the remaining chicken. Let the cooked chicken cool slightly.
4. In a large bowl, combine the thinly sliced cabbage, minced cilantro, julienned carrots, and cooked chicken, tossing them together to create a harmonious blend. Add the coarsely chopped salted peanuts and the prepared dressing, tossing the salad once again to ensure all ingredients are well coated. Serve the Vietnamese Crunchy Chicken Salad immediately to enjoy its fresh flavors.

COOK TIME: 10 minutes (Stir-fry: 4-5 minutes for chicken)

YIELD: 4 servings

SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS:

• For an enhanced taste experience, allow the chicken to marinate in the olive oil and lime juice mixture for the specified time.

TIPS:

• To enjoy the salad at its peak freshness, serve it immediately after tossing with the dressing and peanuts.

In conclusion, Vietnamese Crunchy Chicken Salad is a culinary masterpiece that brings the vibrant flavors of a cherished Vietnamese restaurant in Cleveland right to your own table. Crafted by Erin Schillo from Sagamore Hills, Ohio, this easy-to-make version features a delightful blend of ingredients that will have your taste buds dancing with delight.

The tender and marinated chicken, tossed in a mixture of olive oil, lime juice, cilantro, and a medley of spices, delivers a burst of flavors that create a harmonious symphony on the palate. The addition of a zesty dressing, boasting the zing of lime juice and the subtle heat of red pepper flakes, adds an extra layer of complexity to the salad.

With thinly sliced cabbage, fresh cilantro, julienned carrots, and the satisfying crunch of coarsely chopped salted peanuts, the salad offers a delightful texture that complements the succulent chicken and zesty dressing.

To savor the Vietnamese Crunchy Chicken Salad at its peak, allow the chicken to marinate in the olive oil and lime juice mixture for the specified time. This step ensures that the flavors meld perfectly, creating a truly memorable dish.

Served immediately after tossing with the dressing and peanuts, the Vietnamese Crunchy Chicken Salad is a feast for the senses. Its vibrant colors, bold flavors, and satisfying textures make it a delightful choice for any mealtime occasion.

In summary, Erin Schillo’s Vietnamese Crunchy Chicken Salad recipe is a true winner that will win over the hearts of all who taste it. Experience the magic of a beloved Vietnamese restaurant in the comfort of your own home with this delicious and satisfying salad.