Chicken Cashew Crunch Salad: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe

I’m sharing a salad that’s crunchy, flavorful, and satisfying: a Chicken Cashew Crunch Salad that layers grilled chicken, crisp veggies, roasted cashews, and crispy chow mein noodles, all tossed in a zesty sesame‑soy dressing—it’s a meal you’ll look forward to.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this recipe balances textures and flavors. The roasted cashews and chow mein noodles bring a satisfying crunch, contrasted by tender grilled chicken. The assorted veggies offer freshness and color, while the vibrant dressing ties it all together. It’s quick, versatile, and perfect for an effortless lunch, dinner, or meal-prep staple.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
– grilled chicken breasts, sliced
– chopped romaine lettuce
– diced bell pepper
– julienned carrot
– sliced green onions
– roasted unsalted cashews
– crispy chow mein noodles
– chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
– sesame‑soy dressing (soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, rice vinegar, garlic, grated ginger, salt & pepper)

directions

I begin by grilling chicken breasts, then slicing them into strips once they’re slightly cooled. In a large bowl, I toss together chopped romaine, diced bell pepper, julienned carrot, and sliced green onions. I stir in roasted cashews for crunch. I whisk a quick dressing combining soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, rice vinegar, garlic, and ginger—seasoning with salt and pepper as needed—and drizzle it over the salad, tossing gently to coat everything. Then I fold in the sliced chicken. Right before serving, I sprinkle on crispy chow mein noodles and garnish with cilantro if I’m using it. I serve immediately to enjoy the contrasting textures.

Servings and timing

• Yield: Serves 8

• Prep time: Around 15 minutes

• Cook time: 10–15 minutes

• Total time: About 25–30 minutes

These timings reflect similar recipes including the Sesame‑Teriyaki style Chicken Cashew Salad, which is ready in just 20 minutes

Variations

I’ve personalized this dish to suit different cravings. For a nut-free version, pumpkin or sunflower seeds work well. To bulk it up, I’ll add cooked quinoa or farro. Sometimes I swap romaine for heartier greens like cabbage or kale to help it last in the fridge. I’ve also played with a creamy sesame‑ginger dressing or added avocado for extra richness.

storage/reheating

I usually store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days—though it’s best on day 1 or 2 before crunchy elements soften. I keep the dressing separate when meal prepping and add it just before eating to preserve crispness. If adding noodles or cashews early, I’ll stir them in just before serving to maintain their texture.

FAQs

At what point should I add the chow mein noodles and cashews?

I always add them right before serving to preserve their crunch. If leftovers lose their texture, I’ll sprinkle on a few fresh ones before eating.

Can I make the dressing ahead of time?

Yes — I’ll whisk it up and store it in the fridge for up to 5 days. It’s great for drizzling over grain bowls or other salads too

Can this salad stay in the fridge for meal prep?

Absolutely — I love prepping the veggies and chicken ahead, but I hold off on adding dressing and crunchy toppings until serving day. It keeps everything fresh

What else can I substitute for romaine lettuce?

I’ve used cabbage or kale when I want a sturdier base—both hold up well for leftovers and keep the salad from getting soggy

Is there a vegan or vegetarian version?

Yes — you can swap chicken for chickpeas or tofu, and adjust the dressing to exclude honey or use a vegan alternative. The crunch and brightness remain just as satisfying

Can I add grains?

Definitely — mixing in cooked quinoa, farro, or brown rice makes it more filling and perfect for a balanced, hearty meal

Is this salad high in protein?

Yes — between the chicken and cashews, it delivers a solid protein boost, making it a nutritious and satisfying main dish.

What other dressings work well?

I’ve tried creamy peanut sesame dressings or simple vinaigrettes for variation. A honey‑lime or creamy tahini dressing are also great options.

Can I pack this for lunch?

Yes — I pack separately in containers: greens and chicken, dressing in a small jar, and crunchy toppings in a sealed bag. I assemble at work and it’s fresh and delicious.

How can I add more veggies?

I love adding snap peas, sliced cucumbers, edamame, or even mandarin segments for color, crunch, and flavor.

Conclusion

I feel so good enjoying this Chicken Cashew Crunch Salad—it’s vibrant, crunchy, protein-packed, and flavorful. Whether I’m meal prepping for a busy week or serving it for a light gathering, it always delivers. Let me know if you’d like tips to tweak it for dietary needs or make it even more exciting!

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