Chicken Broccoli Salad

There’s something truly special about a good Chicken Broccoli Salad. It brings back memories of sunny afternoons spent with family, enjoying fresh, wholesome ingredients tossed together in a vibrant dish. I remember the first time I made this salad; my friends gathered around the table, their faces lighting up as they took their first bites. The crunch of the broccoli paired with the tender chicken and the creamy dressing is simply irresistible. Not only is this dish a feast for the senses, but it’s also a nutritious option that I love to whip up for potlucks and casual get-togethers. Whenever I make this Chicken Broccoli Salad, I know I’m serving up smiles and satisfaction.

What Goes Into Chicken Broccoli Salad

The ingredients in this Chicken Broccoli Salad are simple yet powerful. Each one contributes its unique flavor and texture, creating a harmonious dish that’s as delicious as it is nutritious. The combination of fresh vegetables and savory chicken makes this salad a perfect meal or side dish.

• 3 T peanut oil: A light and neutral oil that serves as the base for our dressing. It helps in combining all the flavors without overpowering them.
• 1/2 cup natural peanut butter: This creamy ingredient adds a rich texture and a touch of sweetness, enhancing the overall flavor of the salad.
• 3 T soy sauce: A savory element that brings umami to the dish, balancing the sweetness of the peanut butter.
• 2 T fresh-squeezed lime juice: The bright acidity cuts through the richness, adding a refreshing zing to the salad.
• 1 T minced ginger: This adds warmth and depth to the dressing, perfectly complementing the other flavors.
• 1 tsp. minced garlic: A staple in many dishes, garlic provides a distinctive aroma and flavor that elevates the salad.
• 3 T Granulated Monkfruit Sweetener: A sugar alternative that adds sweetness without the calories, making this dressing a healthier option.
• 1/3 cup water: This is used to thin out the dressing to the desired consistency.
• 3 cups cooked, diced chicken: The protein star of the salad, providing substance and flavor.
• 5 cups chopped broccoli: A crunchy and nutritious base that complements the other ingredients beautifully.
• 1 red bell pepper: Adds vibrant color and sweetness to the salad.
• Chopped peanuts: Optional, but they provide a delightful crunch if sprinkled on top.

Recipe Steps for Chicken Broccoli Salad

Making this Chicken Broccoli Salad is a delightful experience. You’ll enjoy watching the ingredients come together as you prepare the dressing and chop the fresh veggies. Follow these easy steps to create a dish that everyone will love.

1. Start by whisking together peanut oil, peanut butter, soy sauce, lime juice, ginger, garlic, Monkfruit sweetener, and water in a bowl. Look for a smooth, creamy texture that can coat the back of a spoon. This dressing will be the flavorful backbone of your salad.

2. Next, take your chicken and cut it into bite-sized pieces. Aim for uniform sizes so they mix well with the other ingredients. You should have about three cups of diced, cooked chicken. Place the chicken in a large salad bowl and mix in about half of the dressing, allowing the chicken to marinate while you prepare the rest of the salad.

3. Now, trim the ends off your broccoli and chop it into bite-sized pieces. You want to have about five cups of chopped broccoli. The vibrant green color should be enticing, and the texture should be crunchy.

4. Take a red bell pepper, remove the seeds, and cut it into half-inch strips before chopping them into small squares. The sweetness of the bell pepper will complement your salad beautifully.

5. If you are using peanuts, coarsely chop them for added crunch. Set them aside to sprinkle on top later.

6. Add the chopped broccoli and the diced red pepper to the bowl with the marinated chicken. Stir everything together until well combined. Make sure all the ingredients are coated in the dressing. You can add additional dressing to reach your desired moisture level.

7. Now, it’s time to stir in the chopped peanuts if you’re using them. You might want to save a few to sprinkle on top of the finished salad for presentation.

8. Serve your Chicken Broccoli Salad right away for the best flavor and texture. However, you can also refrigerate it for a few hours if you’re preparing it ahead of time. Trust me, this salad will stay fresh in the fridge for several days, but be sure to eat it up quickly!

Recipe Tips about Chicken Broccoli Salad

Here are some helpful tips to ensure your Chicken Broccoli Salad turns out perfectly every time. Each tip will guide you toward creating a more delicious and enjoyable dish.

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This will keep the salad fresh for several days, though it’s best enjoyed within two to three days.
• Freezing: It’s not recommended to freeze this salad, as the texture of the broccoli and other fresh ingredients can be compromised when thawed.
• Pairing: This Chicken Broccoli Salad pairs wonderfully with a warm quinoa side or crusty bread for a complete meal.
• Customization: Add your favorite toppings, such as seeds or dried fruits, to enhance the flavor and texture of the salad.
• Serving Style: Serve this salad in a large bowl as a shared dish or in individual servings for a more polished presentation.
• Time Saving Tip: Use rotisserie chicken to cut down on prep time significantly, making this salad a quick and easy dinner option.

Best Served With

When it comes to serving the Chicken Broccoli Salad, there are plenty of options to consider. Here are some ideas that pair beautifully with the dish:

• Grilled Chicken: For a protein-packed meal, serve your salad alongside grilled chicken for added flavor and texture.
• Quinoa: A side of fluffy quinoa can complement the salad perfectly, adding a wholesome touch to your meal.
• Whole Wheat Bread: Crusty whole wheat bread is a great accompaniment, perfect for soaking up any leftover dressing.
• Rice Pilaf: A savory rice pilaf can balance the freshness of the salad, making for a delightful dining experience.
• Fruit Salad: Pairing this dish with a refreshing fruit salad offers a sweet contrast that enhances the overall meal.
• Occasions: This salad is perfect for picnics, potlucks, or as a light summer dinner option.
• Seasonal Variations: As the seasons change, consider adding seasonal vegetables to keep the salad fresh and exciting.

FAQ

Conclusion

The Chicken Broccoli Salad is a fresh and flavorful dish that everyone can enjoy. With its mix of textures and vibrant ingredients, it stands out as a satisfying meal or side. I encourage you to try making this salad for your next gathering or family dinner—it’s sure to impress!

Chicken Broccoli Salad

The ultimate comfort food, this Chicken Broccoli Salad is a creamy, crunchy delight. Packed with fresh ingredients and vibrant flavors, it's perfect for an easy weeknight dinner. Bring this delicious dish to any gathering and impress your friends and family!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner, Salads

Cuisine: American

Calories: 320

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 3 T peanut oil or other neutral-flavored oil
• 1/2 cup natural peanut butter without sugar
• 3 T soy sauce
• 2 T fresh-squeezed lime juice
• 1 T minced ginger
• 1 tsp minced garlic
• 3 T Granulated Monkfruit Sweetener
• 1/3 cup water

Equipment

• Wooden Spoon
• Mixing Bowl
• Cutting Board
• Chef's Knife
• Whisk

Method

 

1. Whisk together the peanut oil, natural peanut butter, soy sauce, lime juice, minced ginger, minced garlic, Granulated Monkfruit Sweetener, and water to make the dressing.
2. Cut up chicken into bite-sized pieces so you have about 3 cups of diced, cooked chicken, put chicken in salad bowl, and mix in about half the dressing. Let chicken marinate in dressing while you cut up other ingredients.
3. Trim broccoli and chop into bite-sized pieces, to make 5 cups chopped broccoli.
4. Trim ends and remove seeds from red bell pepper, and cut into half-inch strips and then into squares.
5. Coarsely chop peanuts, if using.
6. Add the chopped broccoli and pieces of red pepper to the chicken dressing mixture and stir to combine. Add additional dressing until the salad is as moist as you prefer.
7. Stir in chopped peanuts (if using). We saved some to sprinkle on top of the finished salad.
8. Serve right away or refrigerate for a few hours if making ahead. This will stay good in the fridge for several days, and I was sad when my leftovers were gone.

Notes

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This will keep the salad fresh for several days, though it's best enjoyed within two to three days.
• Freezing: It's not recommended to freeze this salad, as the texture of the broccoli and other fresh ingredients can be compromised when thawed.
• Pairing: This Chicken Broccoli Salad pairs wonderfully with a warm quinoa side or crusty bread for a complete meal.
• Customization: Add your favorite toppings, such as seeds or dried fruits, to enhance the flavor and texture of the salad.
• Serving Style: Serve this salad in a large bowl as a shared dish or in individual servings for a more polished presentation.
• Time Saving Tip: Use rotisserie chicken to cut down on prep time significantly, making this salad a quick and easy dinner option.

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Meet Nora Wells

The Hearth Keeper For me, cooking is about hospitality. I want every recipe we create to make people feel welcome and safe. I love the old ways of cooking cast iron skillets, wooden spoons, and recipes passed down through generations. I work with the team to add that touch of nostalgia to our dishes. Whether we are making a modern pasta or a vintage cake, I’m there to ensure it tastes like home.