This Aldi Chicken Salad recipe is a delightful mix of tender chicken, crunchy vegetables, and a zesty homemade dressing that brings everything together.
Perfect for a quick lunch or light dinner, this salad is both satisfying and packed with fresh flavors, just like the Chickpea Salad.
What so Special About Aldi Chicken Salad?
The Aldi Chicken Salad stands out for its balance of flavors and ease of preparation. With tender, golden-brown chicken thigh fillets, fresh green beans, celery, and cucumber, it’s both nutritious and satisfying.
The homemade dressing, made with garlic, ginger, balsamic vinegar, and soy sauce, adds a zesty kick, while crushed roasted peanuts and fresh coriander bring extra texture and aroma.
This salad is a perfect quick meal, offering a delightful combination of crisp veggies, succulent chicken, and vibrant, savory dressing—all at an affordable price.
Ingredients for Aldi Chicken Salad Recipe
- 4x Cloves of Garlic (minced)
- 15g Fresh Ginger (minced)
- ½ tsp Chilli Flakes
- 3 tbsp Balsamic Vinegar
- 2 tbsp Soy Sauce
- 200g Green Beans (trimmed)
- 200g Celery (thinly sliced on a diagonal)
- 1x Cucumber (peeled into ribbons)
- 30g Roasted Salted Peanuts (crushed)
- Handful of Fresh Coriander (roughly chopped)
- 6x Chicken Thigh Fillets
- 2 tsp Sugar
Equipment & Tools Required
- Whisk
- Vegetable peeler
- Mixing bowl
- Non-stick frying pan
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
How to Make Aldi Chicken Salad?
Step-01: Prepare the Aromatics
Mince the garlic and ginger, then place them in a small saucepan with the chilli flakes. Add vegetable oil and heat over medium heat.
Cook until the mixture is toasted and fragrant, stirring occasionally. Remove the saucepan from the heat and whisk in the balsamic vinegar, soy sauce, and sugar. Set aside to cool.
Step-02: Cook the Green Beans
Boil the trimmed green beans in salted water until tender-crisp, about 3 minutes. Drain and set aside. While the beans cook, thinly slice the celery on a diagonal and peel the cucumber into ribbons.
Step-03: Cook the Chicken
Crush the roasted salted peanuts and roughly chop the fresh coriander. Season the chicken thigh fillets with salt and pepper on both sides. Place the chicken in a cold non-stick frying pan.
Heat over medium heat and cook undisturbed for 6 minutes, until deep golden brown. Flip the chicken and cook for another 4 minutes or until fully cooked. Transfer to a chopping board to rest.
Step-04: Assemble the Salad
In a mixing bowl, combine the green beans, celery, and cucumber. Add half of the dressing and toss to coat. Transfer the dressed vegetables to a platter. Chop the rested chicken and arrange it on top of the salad. Sprinkle the crushed peanuts and chopped coriander over the salad.
Drizzle with the remaining dressing. Your Aldi Chicken Salad is ready to be served! Enjoy the vibrant flavors and textures of this easy-to-make dish.
Check some more recipes from Aldi
Delicious ways to enjoy this Aldi Chicken Salad
1. Serve Over Rice Noodles:
Add a base of cooked rice noodles for a more substantial meal. The lightness of the noodles pairs well with the fresh and crunchy salad.
2. Pair with a Light White Wine:
A crisp, chilled Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio complements the tangy dressing and the tender chicken in the salad.
3. Add a Side of Crusty Bread:
Serve with a warm, crusty baguette or sourdough bread to soak up the delicious dressing and add an extra layer of texture.
4. Serve in Lettuce Wraps:
Spoon the salad into large lettuce leaves (like butter lettuce or romaine) for a fun, hand-held option. This adds a refreshing crunch and is great for low-carb diets.
5. Pair with a Chilled Gazpacho:
A cold tomato or cucumber gazpacho makes a refreshing starter or side dish, enhancing the fresh, vibrant flavors of the salad.
6. Top with a Poached Egg:
For a more indulgent twist, add a poached egg on top of the salad. The runny yolk adds richness and blends beautifully with the dressing.
7. Serve with a Side of Roasted Potatoes:
Oven-roasted baby potatoes with a hint of rosemary or garlic butter provide a hearty, comforting side that pairs well with the freshness of the salad.
8. Pair with a Sparkling Water or Iced Tea:
A refreshing beverage like sparkling water with a twist of lemon or a glass of iced green tea enhances the light and fresh profile of the dish.
9. Garnish with Fresh Lime Wedges:
Add lime wedges on the side for guests to squeeze over the salad. The citrusy kick brightens the flavors and adds a zesty finish.
10. Serve in a Wrap:
Turn the salad into a portable meal by wrapping it in a soft tortilla or flatbread. This is perfect for a quick lunch or on-the-go meal.
Some Tips to Make this Recipe Perfect
1. Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for the freshest garlic, ginger, and vegetables to enhance the flavor and texture of the salad. Fresh herbs, especially coriander, add a vibrant taste.
2. Marinate the Chicken: For an extra boost of flavor, marinate the chicken thigh fillets in a bit of the dressing for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
3. Peel the Ginger: Use a spoon to peel the ginger easily without wasting too much of the flesh. Freshly grated ginger will give the dressing a stronger, more aromatic flavor.
4. Cook the Chicken Evenly: Start cooking the chicken in a cold pan to render the fat slowly, resulting in a crispier skin and juicier meat. Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure even cooking.
5. Chill the Vegetables: After preparing the green beans, celery, and cucumber, chill them in the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes before assembling the salad. This will keep them crisp and refreshing.
6. Balance the Dressing: Taste the dressing before using it on the salad. If it’s too tangy, add a pinch of sugar or a bit more soy sauce to balance the flavors.
7. Customize the Spice Level: Adjust the amount of chili flakes in the dressing based on your preference. If you like it spicy, add a bit more, or reduce it for a milder flavor.
8. Rest the Chicken: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking. This helps the juices redistribute throughout the meat, making it more tender and flavorful when you slice it.
9. Use a Mandoline for Slicing: If you have one, use a mandoline to thinly slice the celery and cucumber. This will ensure even slices and a professional look to your salad.
10. Make Extra Dressing: Consider doubling the dressing recipe to have some on hand for future meals. It stores well in the refrigerator for up to a week and can be used on other salads or as a marinade.
How to Store Leftover Aldi Chicken Salad?
To store leftover Aldi Chicken Salad, transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate it within two hours of preparation.
It will keep fresh for up to 3 days. To prevent the salad from becoming soggy, store the dressing separately and add it just before serving. Reheat the chicken slightly before serving, if desired.
Aldi Chicken Salad Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 x Cloves of Garlic minced
- 15 g Fresh Ginger minced
- ½ tsp Chilli Flakes
- 3 tbsp Balsamic Vinegar
- 2 tbsp Soy Sauce
- 200 g Green Beans trimmed
- 200 g Celery thinly sliced on a diagonal
- 1 x Cucumber peeled into ribbons
- 30 g Roasted Salted Peanuts crushed
- Handful of Fresh Coriander roughly chopped
- 6 x Chicken Thigh Fillets
- 2 tsp Sugar
Instructions
- Mince the garlic and ginger, then place them in a small saucepan with the chilli flakes. Add vegetable oil and heat over medium heat.
- Cook until the mixture is toasted and fragrant, stirring occasionally. Remove the saucepan from the heat and whisk in the balsamic vinegar, soy sauce, and sugar. Set aside to cool.
- Boil the trimmed green beans in salted water until tender-crisp, about 3 minutes. Drain and set aside. While the beans cook, thinly slice the celery on a diagonal and peel the cucumber into ribbons.
- Crush the roasted salted peanuts and roughly chop the fresh coriander. Season the chicken thigh fillets with salt and pepper on both sides. Place the chicken in a cold non-stick frying pan.
- Heat over medium heat and cook undisturbed for 6 minutes, until deep golden brown. Flip the chicken and cook for another 4 minutes or until fully cooked. Transfer to a chopping board to rest.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the green beans, celery, and cucumber. Add half of the dressing and toss to coat. Transfer the dressed vegetables to a platter. Chop the rested chicken and arrange it on top of the salad. Sprinkle the crushed peanuts and chopped coriander over the salad.
- Drizzle with the remaining dressing. Your Aldi Chicken Salad is ready to be served! Enjoy the vibrant flavors and textures of this easy-to-make dish.
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Common queries on Aldi Chicken Salad Recipe
These commonly asked questions and their short answers will give you an better understanding of this Aldi Chicken Salad Recipe
1. Does Aldi have chicken salad?
Yes, Aldi offers pre-made chicken salad in their deli section. However, making your own at home allows you to control the ingredients and customize the flavors to your liking.
2. What is chicken salad made of?
Chicken salad typically includes cooked chicken mixed with ingredients like mayonnaise, celery, onions, and herbs. This recipe adds a unique twist with garlic, ginger, green beans, cucumber, and a tangy dressing.
3. Is chicken salad a healthy diet?
Chicken salad can be a healthy option, especially when made with lean chicken and plenty of vegetables. This recipe uses chicken thigh fillets and a flavorful dressing, providing a balanced mix of protein, fiber, and healthy fats.
4. What is Chicken Salad Chick chicken salad made of?
Chicken Salad Chick offers a variety of chicken salad recipes, but their classic version typically includes shredded chicken, mayonnaise, celery, and a blend of seasonings. Each recipe may vary slightly depending on the flavor profile.
5. Can I use chicken breast instead of chicken thigh fillets in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute chicken breast for the thigh fillets if you prefer. Chicken breast is leaner and will work well in this salad, though it may be slightly less tender.
6. How long can I store Aldi Chicken Salad in the fridge?
The salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. However, for the best flavor and texture, it’s recommended to eat it within 1-2 days.
7. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dressing and vegetables ahead of time. Cook and slice the chicken just before serving to keep it tender and juicy.
8. What can I use instead of peanuts for a nut-free version?
For a nut-free option, consider using roasted sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds. They add a similar crunch without the nuts.
9. Can I make this salad vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, you can replace the chicken with grilled tofu or tempeh. The dressing and vegetables remain the same, providing a delicious plant-based option.
10. What side dishes go well with Aldi Chicken Salad?
This salad pairs well with a variety of sides, such as roasted potatoes, crusty bread, or a light soup like gazpacho. For a complete meal, you can also serve it with rice noodles or lettuce wraps.
This Aldi Chicken Salad is a perfect blend of freshness and savory notes, ideal for any occasion.
Whether you’re looking for a quick weekday meal or something to impress guests, this recipe delivers on taste and simplicity.
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