Ingredients:

  • 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 tablespoon (15ml) vegetable oil
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
  • 1 yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced
  • 1/2 cup (75g) shredded carrots
  • 1/2 cup (50g) chopped red onion
  • 1/2 cup (50g) chopped fresh cilantro (coriander)
  • 1/4 cup (25g) chopped fresh mint
  • 1/4 cup (35g) chopped roasted peanuts
  • 2 green onions, thinly sliced
  • 1 small head of Napa cabbage, shredded (about 4 cups)
  • Optional: 1/2 cup (80g) edamame, shelled
  • 1/4 cup (60ml) peanut butter (smooth or crunchy)
  • 2 tablespoons (30ml) lime juice, freshly squeezed
  • 2 tablespoons (30ml) soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon (15ml) honey or maple syrup
  • 1 tablespoon (15ml) rice vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon (5ml) sesame oil
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (or more, to taste)
  • 2-4 tablespoons (30-60ml) water, to thin

Instructions:

  1. Season chicken with salt and pepper. Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook chicken until cooked through and an internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), about 6-8 minutes per side. Let cool slightly, then shred or dice. (Alternatively use rotisserie chicken).
  2. While the chicken is cooking (or cooling), prepare all the salad ingredients. Chop, slice, and shred as directed in the ingredient list.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together peanut butter, lime juice, soy sauce, honey (or maple syrup), rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes. Add water, 1 tablespoon at a time, until the dressing reaches your desired consistency. It should be easily pourable.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded cabbage, red bell pepper, yellow bell pepper, carrots, red onion, cilantro, mint, green onions, and edamame (if using).
  5. Add the cooked chicken to the salad bowl. Pour the peanut dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine, ensuring all ingredients are evenly coated.
  6. Garnish with chopped roasted peanuts. Serve immediately or chill for later.