Is Thai Chicken Salad with Apples and Peanut Dressing good for weight loss?

Yes. This salad is high in lean protein, loaded with fiber, and full of fresh vegetables and fruit. The healthy fats in the peanut dressing help with satiety, which means you’ll feel full and satisfied longer. The apples also add natural sweetness, reducing the need for added sugars. When you add Thai Pumpkin Coconut Soup to the mix, you create a low-calorie, nutrient-dense duo that’s ideal for weight management. Both dishes are satisfying, flavorful, and portion-controlled, making them a great addition to a healthy eating plan.

Can I make Thai Chicken Salad with Apples and Peanut Dressing without peanuts?

Absolutely. You can substitute the peanut butter with almond butter, cashew butter, or sunflower seed butter for a nut-free version. The creamy consistency remains, and you can still achieve that delicious Thai flavor with soy sauce, lime juice, and honey. This adjustment also works beautifully when paired with Thai Pumpkin Coconut Soup , which is naturally nut-free and helps round out the meal with richness and warmth.

What makes Thai Chicken Salad with Apples and Peanut Dressing different from other chicken salads?

Unlike typical Western chicken salads that use mayo-based dressings and neutral flavors, Thai Chicken Salad with Apples and Peanut Dressing is bold, tangy, creamy, and fresh. The apples add unexpected sweetness and crunch, while the peanut dressing provides umami depth with soy sauce, lime juice, and sesame oil. The combination of sweet, salty, and spicy makes it one of the most flavorful salads you’ll ever try. Want to elevate it further? Pair it with Thai Pumpkin Coconut Soup —a rich, warming dish that balances the salad’s crisp freshness. Together, they make for a globally inspired Thai meal.

Thai Chicken Salad with Apples and Peanut Dressing – Delicious Twist You’ll Love (2025)

Q: How can I make Thai Chicken Salad with Apples and Peanut Dressing kid-friendly?

Children love colorful, crunchy foods—and this salad checks every box. Dice the apples small and go light on the cilantro if your child isn’t a fan of herbs. Let them help drizzle the peanut dressing, which makes the dish interactive and fun. For younger kids, leave out the green onions or slice them extra fine. To make a complete kid-friendly meal, pair the salad with a mild version of Thai Pumpkin Coconut Soup —just hold the chili and blend extra smooth. The creamy texture and mild sweetness of Thai pumpkin coconut soup is always a hit with little ones.

Description

A vibrant and flavorful Thai Chicken Salad with Apples and Peanut Dressing, combining crisp vegetables, sweet apples, and a creamy nutty dressing. Perfect for a light lunch or a healthy dinner option.

Ingredients

Scale

4 cups shredded cooked chicken
1 red apple, diced
1 cup Granny Smith apple, diced
1 cup shredded cabbage
1 cup shredded carrot
1 thinly sliced red bell pepper
3 green onions, chopped
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
1/4 cup creamy peanut butter
3 tbsp lime juice
1 tbsp soy sauce
1/2 tbsp honey
2 tsp toasted sesame oil
2–3 tbsp water (to thin as needed)

Instructions

In a large bowl, combine chicken, apples, cabbage, carrots, red bell pepper, green onions, and cilantro.
In a separate bowl, whisk together peanut butter, lime juice, soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, and water until smooth.
Pour the dressing over the salad and toss until well coated.
Season with salt to taste and serve immediately.

Notes

Add chili flakes or sriracha for extra spice.
Use almond or sunflower butter for a nut-free version.
Keep the dressing separate until ready to serve if meal prepping.
Sprinkle with crushed peanuts or sesame seeds for added crunch.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bowl
Calories: 420
Sugar: 12g
Sodium: 550mg
Fat: 24g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Unsaturated Fat: 18g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 22g
Fiber: 5g
Protein: 28g
Cholesterol: 75mg

Keywords: Thai Chicken Salad with Apples and Peanut Dressing, Thai salad, peanut dressing, healthy Thai salad, easy Thai salad, gluten-free Thai salad