Name: Thai Cucumber Salad with Chicken Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: Thai
Ingredients: 1.5 cups shredded chicken; 2 English cucumbers; 3 green onions, sliced (green and white parts); 1/4 cup crunchy peanut butter; 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice; 1 tablespoon rice vinegar; 1 tablespoon low-sodium soy sauce or tamari; 1 tablespoon honey; 2 teaspoons toasted sesame oil; 1 tablespoon chili crisp; 1 clove garlic, minced; 1-2 tablespoons water or coconut milk (if needed); 2 teaspoons toasted sesame seeds; Additional chili crisp for drizzling; Extra sliced green onions for garnish

Jump to Recipe· 3.9 from 12 reviews

If you are on the hunt for a refreshing, flavorful, and effortless dish, the Thai Cucumber Salad with Chicken Recipe is about to become your new go-to. This vibrant salad brings together the cool crunch of cucumbers with tender shredded chicken, all enveloped in a luscious, tangy peanut dressing. It is the perfect blend of textures and bold flavors that dance on your palate, making it an ideal lunch or light dinner. Whether you crave something quick or want to impress with a bright, healthful dish, this recipe delivers all that and more in just 15 minutes.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a four-part collage, each part depicting a stage of preparing a dish. The first part is a close-up of a glass bowl containing a dark, thick sauce with chunks of light brown ingredients in it. The second part shows the same glass bowl with the sauce mixed with grainy mustard seeds and a darker reddish-brown spicy paste on top. The third part shows thin round slices of fresh green cucumber arranged overlapping on a white marbled surface. The last part shows shredded white meat on a bed of sliced fresh cucumber leaves, topped with a thick and chunky orange-brown sauce. The overall composition is clean and simple, with a white marbled background for clarity. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering fresh and simple ingredients is the first step to creating this delightful salad. Each component plays a crucial role, from the crisp cucumbers adding refreshing crunch to the creamy peanut butter that gives depth and richness to the sauce.

1.5 cups shredded chicken: Provides lean protein and a satisfying texture that complements the crisp veggies.
2 English cucumbers: Their thin skins and mild flavor make them perfect for thin slicing and adding coolness to the salad.
3 green onions (sliced green and white parts): Adds a mild onion flavor and a pop of green color to brighten the dish.
1/4 cup crunchy peanut butter: Essential for the creamy, nutty base of the dressing with delightful texture.
1 tablespoon fresh lime juice: Brings zesty brightness to balance the richness of peanut butter.
1 tablespoon rice vinegar: Adds subtle acidity and enhances the fresh flavors.
1 tablespoon low-sodium soy sauce or tamari: Provides savory umami depth without overpowering.
1 tablespoon honey: Introduces gentle sweetness to round out the dressing.
2 teaspoons toasted sesame oil: Infuses a warm, nutty aroma that elevates the entire salad.
1 tablespoon chili crisp: Gives a spicy kick and a delightful crunch from the chili flakes and oil.
1 clove garlic (minced): Adds a subtle pungency that blends seamlessly into the sauce.
1-2 tablespoons water or coconut milk (if needed): Adjusts the sauce consistency for perfect coating of ingredients.
2 teaspoons toasted sesame seeds: Sprinkle on top for an extra layer of toasted nuttiness and visual appeal.

How to Make Thai Cucumber Salad with Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Cucumbers

Begin with slicing the cucumbers thinly for the perfect crunch in every bite. Using a mandolin or a sharp knife, cut them into uniform slices to ensure even texture throughout the salad. Lay these slices between paper towels and gently press or roll them up to soak up excess moisture. This step keeps the salad crisp and prevents it from getting soggy as it sits.

Step 2: Whisk Together the Peanut Sauce

In a large mixing bowl, combine the crunchy peanut butter, lime juice, rice vinegar, soy sauce, honey, toasted sesame oil, chili crisp, and minced garlic. Whisk everything vigorously until you get a smooth, luscious sauce with a perfect balance of tangy, sweet, spicy, and nutty flavors. If the sauce feels too thick, gently stir in one or two tablespoons of water or coconut milk to reach a creamy consistency that will coat every bite.

Step 3: Toss Salad Ingredients

Add the shredded chicken, sliced cucumbers, and green onions into the bowl with your peanut sauce. Toss the ingredients together until they are thoroughly coated and glistening with the flavorful dressing. This ensures every forkful bursts with the delightful mix of textures and tastes that define the Thai Cucumber Salad with Chicken Recipe.

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

Finish the salad by sprinkling toasted sesame seeds over the top and drizzling a little extra chili crisp for those who love an extra pop of spice. This finishing touch not only amps up the flavor but also adds a beautiful visual contrast, making your salad as pretty as it is delicious.

How to Serve Thai Cucumber Salad with Chicken Recipe

A close-up view of a fork holding a mix of curly green cucumber slices and creamy orange-colored scrambled eggs, coated softly with sesame seeds and small chopped green herbs. The soft scrambled eggs are interlaced with the shiny, textured cucumber pieces, giving a fresh look with a hint of chili oil. In the blurred background, there is a clear white bowl filled with the same dish, all placed on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Garnishes bring charm and extra flavor to this salad. Try fresh cilantro leaves, chopped roasted peanuts, or a squeeze of lime on top for an additional zing. These simple additions personalize the dish and elevate your serving presentation.

Side Dishes

This salad pairs wonderfully with jasmine rice or light coconut rice to make a more filling meal. For a refreshing contrast, serve alongside grilled shrimp, spring rolls, or a crisp papaya salad to enhance the Thai-inspired theme.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the salad inside hollowed-out cucumber boats or atop butter lettuce cups for a bite-sized appetizer. You might also plate it in a colorful bowl with edible flowers to impress guests with both flavor and aesthetics.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Thai cucumber salad with chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Keep in mind the cucumbers may release some water over time, so give the salad a gentle toss before serving again to redistribute the dressing.

Freezing

This salad does not freeze well due to the fresh cucumbers and texture of the dressing. It is best enjoyed fresh or stored refrigerated for short-term enjoyment.

Reheating

Since this is a cold salad, reheating is not recommended. However, you can warm extra shredded chicken separately and toss with the cold salad just before serving to add a cozy element.

FAQs

Can I make this salad vegan?

Absolutely! Replace the chicken with tofu or tempeh and swap honey with maple syrup or another vegan sweetener. Use tamari to keep it gluten-free and vegan-friendly.

Is this salad spicy?

The chili crisp gives the salad a mild to moderate heat that can be adjusted to your liking. Add more or less chili crisp to control the spice level.

What if I don’t have crunchy peanut butter?

Smooth peanut butter works just fine, though crunchy adds delightful texture. You can also try almond or cashew butter for a different nutty flavor.

Can I use other types of cucumbers?

English cucumbers are preferred because of their thin skin and fewer seeds, but you can use regular cucumbers if peeled and seeded to avoid bitterness and excess water.

How long does it take to prepare this salad?

This Thai Cucumber Salad with Chicken Recipe can be made in about 15 minutes, making it a perfect quick fix for busy days or last-minute gatherings.

Final Thoughts

There is nothing quite as satisfying as a salad that is simple to make yet bursting with flavor, and this Thai Cucumber Salad with Chicken Recipe fits that bill perfectly. Its combination of creamy peanut sauce, crisp cucumbers, and tender chicken makes it an absolute crowd favorite. Give it a try and watch it become a staple in your recipe collection. Your taste buds will thank you!