Description
- Thai Peanut Chicken Pasta Salad combines bold flavors, crisp veggies, and creamy dressing in a wholesome, high-protein meal.
Ingredients
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For the Chicken:
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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Juice of 1 lime
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3 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
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1 tablespoon brown sugar
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2 teaspoons toasted sesame oil
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1½ pounds skinless, boneless chicken breasts
For the Peanut Dressing:
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½ cup smooth peanut butter
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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Juice of ½ lime
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1 tablespoon low-sodium soy sauce
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1 tablespoon rice vinegar
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2 teaspoons grated fresh ginger
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2 teaspoons sriracha
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1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
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½ teaspoon sesame seeds
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6 tablespoons warm water
For the Salad:
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1 pound fusilli pasta
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¼ head purple cabbage, thinly sliced
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1 red bell pepper, chopped
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1 large carrot, grated
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1 small cucumber, sliced into half-moons
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2 scallions, thinly sliced
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¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro
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¼ cup roasted unsalted peanuts
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1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds
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Instructions
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Marinate the Chicken:
In a medium bowl, mix garlic, lime juice, soy sauce, olive oil, ginger, brown sugar, and sesame oil. Add the chicken, turning to coat evenly. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes at room temperature or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator. -
Prepare the Dressing:
In another bowl, whisk together peanut butter, garlic, lime juice, soy sauce, rice vinegar, ginger, sriracha, sesame oil, and sesame seeds. Gradually stir in warm water until smooth and creamy. -
Cook the Pasta:
Boil the fusilli in salted water according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve ¼ cup of the pasta water, then drain. -
Cook the Chicken:
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the marinated chicken for about 8 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and golden. Let rest for 5 minutes before cutting into bite-sized pieces. -
Assemble the Salad:
In a large bowl, toss the warm pasta with the peanut dressing and a couple tablespoons of the reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce. Add the chicken, cabbage, bell pepper, carrot, cucumber, scallions, and cilantro. Mix well. -
Serve:
Enjoy warm or chilled. Garnish with peanuts and sesame seeds just before serving.