Chicken Pea Pod Salad Oriental
A vibrant and crunchy chicken salad featuring tender cooked chicken, crisp pea pods, and flavorful julienned jicama, all coated in a light, tangy mayonnaise dressing with soy sauce and ginger. Perfect for a refreshing lunch or a casual gathering, this salad offers a delightful mix of textures and flavors that appeal to all.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine cooked spiral macaroni, blanched pea pods, cubed cooked chicken, sliced green onions, and julienne sliced jicama.
- In a small bowl, mix reduced calorie mayonnaise, soy sauce, pepper, ginger, and sherry until well combined.
- Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and toss to coat evenly.
- Cover and chill the salad for at least 3 hours to allow flavors to meld.
- Line a serving bowl with lettuce leaves and spoon the chilled salad over the lettuce.
Tips & Substitutions
For added crunch, consider substituting the jicama with diced celery or bell peppers. If you prefer a creamier dressing, use full-fat mayonnaise instead of reduced calorie. To save time, you can use rotisserie chicken as a shortcut. Adjust the soy sauce for a saltier flavor or add a splash of sesame oil for an extra layer of taste.
Serving Suggestions
This salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken dishes or a light soup for a complete meal. Serve it alongside crusty bread or on a bed of mixed greens for added freshness. For a festive touch, consider garnishing with toasted sesame seeds or chopped cilantro. It's perfect for picnics and potlucks.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Chicken Pea Pod Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If the salad becomes too watery, drain excess liquid before serving. It’s best enjoyed cold, so there’s no need to reheat; simply mix well before serving if it sits for a while.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken Pea Pod Salad Oriental contains roughly 59 calories, with 4g protein, 11g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (91% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1349mg per serving (59% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh peas instead of pea pods?
Yes, you can substitute fresh peas for the pea pods if you prefer. Just blanch them briefly to maintain their bright color and crunch. Fresh peas will add a sweet flavor that complements the other ingredients well.
How can I make this salad vegetarian?
To make Chicken Pea Pod Salad vegetarian, simply omit the chicken and replace it with chickpeas or tofu for protein. You can also add additional vegetables like diced bell peppers or carrots to enhance the texture and flavor.
What can I serve with this salad?
This salad pairs well with a variety of dishes. Consider serving it alongside grilled meats, such as Baked Hawaiian Chicken or as part of a larger spread with appetizers like Party Chicken Sandwiches. It's also great with a light vinaigrette dressing on the side.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).