Bright, refreshing, and packed with flavor, this Mandarin Chicken Salad is the perfect medley of crisp vegetables, juicy mandarin oranges, and tender, seasoned chicken. The hearty base of romaine lettuce is elevated with vibrant purple cabbage, sweet julienned carrots, and a satisfying crunch from toasted almonds and sesame seeds. A savory-sweet homemade dressing, infused with soy sauce, honey, fresh ginger, and garlic, ties everything together beautifully. Quick and easy to make, this salad is ideal for a light lunch or a colorful side dish at dinner. Ready in just 25 minutes, itβs a healthy and flavorful way to enjoy lean protein and fresh produce in one bowl.
Season the chicken breasts with salt and black pepper on both sides.
Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the chicken breasts for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked and no longer pink in the center. Remove from skillet and let rest for 5 minutes. Slice into thin strips.
In a large salad bowl, combine the romaine lettuce, shredded purple cabbage, julienned carrot, and mandarin orange segments.
Add the sliced chicken, toasted almonds, green onions, and sesame seeds (if using) to the bowl.
In a small bowl or jar, whisk together soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, grated ginger, and minced garlic to create the dressing.
Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
Serve immediately and enjoy!
Calories |
1327 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 59.5 g | 76% | |
| Saturated Fat | 9.2 g | 46% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 7.3 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 296 mg | 99% | |
| Sodium | 2724 mg | 118% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 78.9 g | 29% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 13.1 g | 47% | |
| Total Sugars | 51.3 g | ||
| Protein | 123.4 g | 247% | |
| Vitamin D | 1.1 mcg | 6% | |
| Calcium | 360 mg | 28% | |
| Iron | 8.8 mg | 49% | |
| Potassium | 2263 mg | 48% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.