This Mandarin Orange Chicken Salad is a refreshing mix of chicken, sweet mandarin oranges, and crunchy greens. It’s perfect for a light meal or a quick lunch!
I love how the juicy oranges add a burst of flavor to each bite! It feels like sunshine on a plate. Plus, it’s super easy to toss together when I’m short on time. 🌞
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for this salad since they cook quickly. If you’re looking for a lighter option, try using grilled shrimp or tofu for a vegetarian alternative!
Mandarin Oranges: Canned mandarin oranges are easy, but if you have fresh ones, use those for extra flavor. If you can’t find mandarins, canned peaches or pineapple can also work well.
Greens: Mixed salad greens bring variety, but any greens like arugula or kale can be delicious. Feel free to mix it up based on what’s available!
Dressing Ingredients: Fresh orange juice is best, but bottled juice can be a quick substitute. You can use apple cider vinegar instead of rice vinegar for a slightly different taste, and agave syrup works in place of honey if you’re vegan.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken is Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking chicken right can be tricky. Here’s how to make sure it’s juicy and tender:
- Season well with salt and pepper before cooking. This helps with flavor.
- Cook over medium heat—not too high! This ensures it cooks through without burning.
- Use a meat thermometer; chicken should reach 165°F (75°C).
- Let it rest for 5 minutes after cooking. This allows juices to redistribute, keeping your chicken nice and moist.
With these tips, your Mandarin Orange Chicken Salad will turn out delicious every time. Enjoy your cooking experience!
How to Make Mandarin Orange Chicken Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 6 cups mixed salad greens (such as spinach, romaine, and radicchio)
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1 can (11 oz) mandarin orange segments, drained (or 1 cup fresh mandarin segments)
- 1 tablespoon black and white sesame seeds
- 2 tablespoons sliced almonds (optional)
For the Dressing:
- 3 tablespoons orange juice (preferably fresh)
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This salad takes about 20 minutes to prepare, including cooking the chicken and making the dressing. It’s a quick and easy meal that’s great for lunch or dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Chicken:
Start by seasoning both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook them for about 6-7 minutes on each side until they are fully cooked and no longer pink inside. Use a meat thermometer if you have one; the chicken should reach 165°F (75°C).
2. Let the Chicken Rest:
Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet and let it rest on a cutting board for about 5 minutes. This helps keep it juicy. After it’s rested, slice the chicken into thin strips.
3. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, combine the orange juice, rice vinegar, soy sauce, honey or maple syrup, grated ginger, sesame oil, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Whisk these ingredients together until well mixed. Taste it and adjust the seasoning if needed.
4. Assemble the Salad:
In a large salad bowl, add the mixed salad greens, shredded carrots, and drained mandarin orange segments. Gently toss these ingredients together.
5. Add the Chicken & Dressing:
Place the sliced chicken on top of the salad. Drizzle your homemade dressing over the salad and toss everything gently to combine, so you don’t break the mandarin oranges.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Sprinkle the sesame seeds and sliced almonds over the top of the salad for added crunch. Serve immediately, and feel free to offer extra dressing on the side if anyone wants more flavor!
This vibrant Mandarin Orange Chicken Salad is refreshing and packed with flavor. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Leftover Chicken for This Salad?
Absolutely! Leftover roasted or grilled chicken works perfectly in this salad. Just slice it up and toss it in—you’ll save time and still enjoy a delicious meal!
How Can I Make This Salad Vegetarian?
To make this salad vegetarian, simply omit the chicken and add protein alternatives such as chickpeas, tofu, or edamame. You can also add a bit more nuts or seeds for added crunch and nutrition!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
If you have leftovers, store the salad components separately. Keep the salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. It’s best to add the dressing right before serving to prevent the greens from getting soggy.
Can I Prepare the Dressing in Advance?
Yes, you can make the dressing ahead of time! Store it in a sealed container in the fridge for up to a week. Just give it a good shake before using, as ingredients may separate over time.
