Skip to main content

Crunchy Asian Chicken Salad

This crunchy Asian chicken salad is a vibrant, texture-rich dish that makes for a satisfying lunch or light supper. Combining tender chicken breast with crisp water chestnuts, shredded carrots and sweet apple, it offers a wonderful balance of flavours. The dressing, made with creamy peanut butter and tangy rice vinegar, provides a savoury depth that complements the fresh produce without being heavy. It is a brilliant way to use up leftover roast chicken while bringing a taste of East Asian inspiration to your kitchen.

As a diabetes-friendly recipe, this salad is designed to be both nutritious and filling, focusing on lean protein and high-fibre vegetables to help maintain steady energy levels. The addition of roasted soy nuts or peanuts provides a delightful crunch and a boost of healthy fats. Serve it on its own or tucked into large lettuce leaves for a refreshing, low-carbohydrate meal that the whole family will enjoy.

Continue reading below

Ingredients for Crunchy Asian Chicken Salad

  • 350ml finely diced cooked chicken meat (170g , about 1 1/2 breast halves)

  • 6 canned peeled water chestnuts, rinsed and chopped

  • 1 carrot, peeled and shredded

  • 1 small celery rib, finely diced

  • 120ml diced apple, such as Gala or Golden Delicious (about 1/2 apple)

  • 1 tablespoon natural peanut butter or sesame tahini

  • 1 tablespoon seasoned rice vinegar

  • 3/4 tablespoons soy sauce

  • 2 tablespoons mayonnaise

  • 1 tablespoon minced fresh chives (optional)

  • 1/4 cup roasted soy nuts or coarsely chopped unsalted peanuts

  • 1 teaspoon hot sesame oil (optional)

How to make Crunchy Asian Chicken Salad

Combine the chicken, water chestnuts, carrot, celery and apple in a bowl and stir to mix.

Whisk together the peanut butter, vinegar and soy sauce until smooth. Whisk in the mayonnaise and chives, if using, spoon the dressing over the salad, and mix well. Sprinkle with soy nuts just before serving.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 16 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
flu eligibility checker

Ask, share, connect.

Browse discussions, ask questions, and share experiences across hundreds of health topics.

symptom checker

Feeling unwell?

Assess your symptoms online for free

Sign up to the Patient newsletter

Your weekly dose of clear, trustworthy health advice - written to help you feel informed, confident and in control.

Please enter a valid email address

By subscribing you accept our Privacy Policy. You can unsubscribe at any time. We never sell your data.