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Thai Peanut Chicken Pasta Salad

Thai Peanut Chicken Pasta Salad – Quick, Creamy & Flavorful

A quick and delicious Thai Peanut Chicken Pasta Salad bursting with flavor and nutrition, perfect for busy weeknights.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: Thai
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

Dressing
  • ½ cup peanut butter or almond butter for a twist
  • ¼ cup water adjust to preference
  • 1 tablespoon fish sauce or more soy sauce for vegetarian option
  • 3 tablespoons light soy sauce or tamari for gluten-free
  • 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup for vegan option
  • 1-2 tablespoons chili sauce Sriracha works as a substitute
Salad
  • 8 ounces pasta (penne) or any uncooked pasta shape
  • 1 pound chicken grilled or rotisserie for flavor
  • 1 cup small tomatoes or cherry tomatoes
  • 1 cup cucumber diced or zucchini/bell pepper
  • 1 cup carrot shredded red cabbage is a variation
  • ¼ cup roasted peanuts or different nuts as per preference

Equipment

  • Saucepan
  • Large pot
  • Grill Pan
  • mixing bowl

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a small saucepan over low heat, whisk together ½ cup peanut butter, ¼ cup water, 1 tablespoon fish sauce, 3 tablespoons light soy sauce, 2 tablespoons honey, and 1–2 tablespoons chili sauce. Stir continuously for about 3-5 minutes until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then add your pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water.
  3. While the pasta cooks, heat a grill pan over medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper. Grill for 5-7 minutes until fully cooked, then chop into bite-sized pieces.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, add the drained pasta and drizzle with 1 tablespoon of sesame oil. Toss gently to coat.
  5. Pour the peanut dressing over the pasta, add in grilled chicken, small tomatoes, cucumber, and carrots. Gently mix until well combined.
  6. Divide into bowls and garnish with roasted peanuts and chopped cilantro or herbs.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 30gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 5gSugar: 8gVitamin A: 1800IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 2mg

Notes

This salad is perfect for meal prep and can be customized with different vegetables or proteins. The dressing may thicken in the fridge; add water as needed before serving.

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