Thai Crunch Salad from California Pizza Kitchen features crisp Napa cabbage, shredded carrots, and grilled chicken tossed with crunchy wonton strips and toasted almonds, all drizzled with a zesty Thai vinaigrette for a refreshing and vibrant flavor.
Equipments
- Large salad bowl
- Chef's knife
- Cutting board
- Vegetable peeler
- Salad tongs
- Small mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Grill pan or outdoor grill
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
Ingredients
- 1 head Napa cabbage
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 2 grilled chicken breasts
- 1 cup wonton strips
- 1/2 cup toasted sliced almonds
- 1/2 cup chopped cilantro
- 1/2 cup chopped scallions
- 1/2 cup diced cucumber
- 1/2 cup edamame
- 1/4 cup thinly sliced red bell pepper
- 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
- 3 tablespoons creamy peanut butter
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 tablespoon sriracha
- 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Salt
- Black pepper
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for grilling chicken)
Napa cabbage serves as the crisp base of this Thai Crunch Salad, providing a refreshing crunch that pairs well with the sweetness of shredded carrots and the smoky flavor of grilled chicken breasts. Crunchy wonton strips and toasted sliced almonds add texture contrast, enhancing every bite with a satisfying crispiness. The zesty Thai vinaigrette combines creamy peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, sesame oil, lime juice, sriracha, and fresh ginger, creating a balanced dressing that complements the fresh herbs like cilantro, mint, and scallions. Ensure you grill your chicken with vegetable oil for optimal moisture and flavor, and adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper to your taste preferences. Your homemade version of the Thai Crunch Salad from California Pizza Kitchen copycat menu will deliver an authentic and vibrant dining experience right at home.
Instructions
- Preheat grill pan or outdoor grill to medium-high heat.
- Brush chicken breasts with vegetable oil, season with salt and black pepper.
- Grill chicken breasts until cooked through, then set aside to rest.
- In a small mixing bowl, combine peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, sesame oil, lime juice, sriracha, ginger, and minced garlic.
- Whisk dressing ingredients until smooth; adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
- Thinly slice grilled chicken breasts.
- Use a chef’s knife and cutting board to shred Napa cabbage, dice cucumber, and slice red bell pepper.
- In a large salad bowl, combine Napa cabbage, shredded carrots, cucumber, red bell pepper, edamame, scallions, cilantro, and mint leaves.
- Add sliced grilled chicken, toasted sliced almonds, and wonton strips to the salad.
- Pour Thai vinaigrette over salad.
- Toss salad gently with salad tongs until evenly coated.
- Serve immediately.
Substitution
The Thai Crunch Salad from California Pizza Kitchen combines Napa cabbage, grilled chicken, crunchy wonton strips, and toasted almonds tossed in a zesty Thai vinaigrette to deliver a refreshing and vibrant flavor. If you cannot find wonton strips, crispy baked tortilla strips or crushed rice crackers make excellent alternatives without compromising texture. Your peanut butter-based dressing can be adjusted to accommodate allergies by substituting with sunflower seed butter or tahini for a similar creamy consistency. Use cooked, shredded rotisserie chicken in place of grilled chicken breasts for a quicker preparation. Toasted cashews or peanuts can replace sliced almonds if you prefer a different nutty crunch.
Tips
Ensure your grill pan or outdoor grill is properly preheated to medium-high before cooking the chicken to achieve even grilling and avoid undercooking. When shredding Napa cabbage and slicing vegetables, use a sharp chef's knife for clean cuts that maintain texture and freshness. Whisk the peanut butter dressing thoroughly until smooth to prevent lumps and balance the intense flavors with a pinch of salt and pepper. Toss the salad gently with tongs to evenly coat ingredients without crushing delicate herbs or wonton strips, preserving the salad's crispness.
Nutritions
Thai Crunch Salad from California Pizza Kitchen offers a nutrient-rich blend of crisp Napa cabbage and shredded carrots, providing high fiber and essential vitamins A and C. Grilled chicken delivers lean protein, while toasted almonds and wonton strips add healthy fats and a satisfying crunch. The Thai vinaigrette, made with peanut butter, lime juice, and ginger, contributes antioxidants and heart-healthy monounsaturated fats. Your meal supports balanced nutrition with a mix of protein, vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats for sustained energy.
Storage
Store leftover Thai Crunch Salad components separately for optimal freshness: keep the grilled chicken and dressing in airtight containers in the refrigerator, while storing the wonton strips and toasted almonds in a dry, cool place to maintain their crunch. Combine all ingredients just before serving to preserve the crispness of the Napa cabbage and prevent sogginess. To extend freshness, consume your prepared salad within 1-2 days.
Variation or Alternatives
You can substitute grilled chicken with shrimp or tofu for a seafood or vegetarian twist in your Thai Crunch Salad. Swap wonton strips with crushed roasted peanuts or crispy chickpeas to add a different crunch texture and boost protein content. To enhance the flavor, try marinating the chicken in lime juice, soy sauce, and garlic before grilling for extra zest. Consider using a blender to combine the vinaigrette ingredients for a smoother, creamier dressing consistency.
Allergies
Your Thai Crunch Salad contains common allergens such as peanuts from the creamy peanut butter and tree nuts from the toasted sliced almonds. Soy sauce in the dressing includes soy, while the wonton strips may contain gluten, posing risks for those with soy or gluten allergies. Individuals with these sensitivities should verify ingredients carefully or consider modifications to avoid allergic reactions.
Why this recipe?
The Thai Crunch Salad at California Pizza Kitchen stands out for its vibrant combination of fresh vegetables, crunchy wonton strips, and a zesty peanut dressing that delivers a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors. The salad's appealing texture and bold taste cater to those seeking a refreshing yet satisfying meal. Your attempt to make a copycat version is worth it because replicating the authentic blend of ingredients allows you to enjoy this unique flavor experience at home, saving money without compromising taste. This dish also offers a healthier option compared to typical restaurant fare, making it popular among health-conscious diners.