Bobby Flay’s Spicy Chinese Chicken Salad with Red Chile Peanut Dressing
If you’re in the mood for a fresh, vibrant, and spicy salad that is easy to prepare and bursting with flavor, Bobby Flay’s Chinese Chicken Salad with Red Chile Peanut Dressing is a must-try. This dish is a great balance of textures and flavors, from the crisp vegetables to the tender chicken, and the spicy-sweet dressing that ties everything together. Inspired by Bobby Flay’s grilling specials, this salad has become a household favorite for those who appreciate a little heat with their meals. It’s perfect for a quick lunch or a light dinner, especially when served with a side of grilled lime to bring out the zest. Whether you’re a fan of Asian-inspired dishes or just love a well-seasoned salad, this recipe will definitely be a hit.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to prepare this refreshing salad with a delicious kick:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Fresh ginger, peeled | 1/4 inch piece |
| Chipotle peppers, pureed | 2 |
| Soy sauce | 1 tbsp |
| Honey | 2 tbsp |
| Canola oil | 1 tbsp |
| Napa cabbage, shredded | 1 head |
| Romaine lettuce, chopped | 2 cups |
| Carrots, julienned | 1 cup |
| Snow peas, sliced thin | 1/2 cup |
| Fresh cilantro leaves | 1/2 cup |
| Green onion, sliced | 2 stalks |
| Roasted peanuts, chopped | 1/4 cup |
| Fresh mint leaves | 1/4 cup |
| Lime, cut into wedges | 2 wedges |
Red Chile Peanut Dressing:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Rice vinegar | 1/4 cup |
| Peanut butter | 1/4 cup |
| Fresh ginger, grated | 1 tbsp |
| Chipotle pepper puree | 1 tbsp |
| Soy sauce | 1 tbsp |
| Honey | 1 tbsp |
| Sesame oil | 1 tbsp |
| Canola oil | 1 tbsp |
| Salt | To taste |
| Black pepper | To taste |
Nutritional Information (per serving):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 653 kcal |
| Fat Content | 52.7 g |
| Saturated Fat Content | 6.5 g |
| Cholesterol Content | 52.5 mg |
| Sodium Content | 602.6 mg |
| Carbohydrate Content | 21.2 g |
| Fiber Content | 6.5 g |
| Sugar Content | 10.2 g |
| Protein Content | 29 g |
Instructions
This recipe is not only delicious but also simple to put together. Here’s how to prepare your Bobby Flay-inspired Spicy Chinese Chicken Salad with Red Chile Peanut Dressing:
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Make the Dressing: In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the rice vinegar, peanut butter, fresh ginger, chipotle pepper puree, soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, and canola oil. Keep whisking until the dressing is smooth and well-combined. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Adjust the seasoning if you like it spicier or sweeter by adding more chipotle puree or honey.
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Prepare the Salad: In a large salad bowl, combine the napa cabbage, romaine lettuce, julienned carrots, sliced snow peas, fresh cilantro, and green onions. Toss the ingredients gently to mix them evenly. The combination of these fresh vegetables provides a great crunch, making each bite a refreshing experience.
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Toss with Dressing: Drizzle the prepared red chile peanut dressing over the salad mixture. Toss everything together until the vegetables are evenly coated with the dressing. The peanut butter in the dressing will add richness, while the chipotle pepper will infuse a lovely smokey heat.
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Assemble and Garnish: Transfer the dressed salad to a serving platter. Top the salad with the shredded cooked chicken, chopped roasted peanuts, and fresh mint leaves for added flavor and texture. The peanuts will give a delightful crunch, while the mint will add a fresh, fragrant touch.
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Serve and Enjoy: For an extra kick, drizzle some chili oil over the salad. Garnish with grilled lime halves on the side to add a citrusy zing when squeezed over the salad just before eating.
This salad can be served immediately or chilled for a few minutes before serving. It’s light yet satisfying, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special gathering.
Tips:
- Chicken: You can use grilled or rotisserie chicken for a quicker version. Just shred it and toss it into the salad when assembling.
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of chipotle pepper puree to your liking. If you prefer a milder dressing, start with less and gradually add more for the desired heat level.
- Peanut Butter: For a smoother dressing, make sure to use creamy peanut butter. Chunky peanut butter can work, but it will make the dressing less smooth.
Why You’ll Love It:
This Chinese Chicken Salad is perfect for anyone who enjoys a combination of spicy, sweet, and savory flavors. The fresh ingredients offer a wonderful contrast to the rich dressing, and the addition of mint, cilantro, and roasted peanuts make each bite an exciting experience. Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight dinner or something special for a gathering, this salad is sure to be a hit with its balance of flavors and textures.
Enjoy this recipe as part of your next family meal, and don’t forget to make it your own by adding extra vegetables or adjusting the spice level!
