It happened on one of those hectic weeknights when I was searching for a meal that could satisfy my cravings without compromising my healthy eating goals. I stumbled across some mandarin oranges in my pantry, and just like that, inspiration struck! This vibrant Paleo & Whole30 Mandarin Chicken Salad with Coconut Chips was born.
Imagine a bowl filled with tender chicken, juicy citrus bursts, and the delightful crunch of toasted coconut chips. The moment the fresh aromas of garlic and ginger waft through your kitchen, you’ll know you’re in for a treat. Best of all? You can whip this up in just 10 minutes! This salad isn’t just a feast for your taste buds; it’s a celebration of wholesome ingredients that come together effortlessly. Say goodbye to boring meals and hello to a dish that’s as satisfying as it is nutritious! So grab your mixing bowl and let’s dive into this deliciously fresh recipe that’s perfect for dinner or lunch.
Why will you love this Paleo & Whole30 Mandarin Chicken Salad?
Quick and Easy: This salad comes together in just 10 minutes, making it a lifesaver for busy weeknights.
Flavor Explosion: The mix of sweet mandarin oranges and savory chicken creates a delicious contrast that keeps each bite exciting.
Crispy Texture: Crunchy coconut chips add an unexpected twist that elevates the salad to new heights of delightful texture.
Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with protein and healthy fats, it’s perfect for anyone following Paleo or Whole30 diets while enjoying nutrient-dense meals.
Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to customize with your favorite greens or proteins; this salad is as adaptable as it is tasty!
Whether you’re preparing a light lunch or a flavorful side dish for dinner, this salad promises to satisfy your cravings without compromising your wellness goals.
Paleo & Whole30 Mandarin Chicken Salad Ingredients
For the Salad
• Mandarin Oranges – Adds sweetness and juiciness; opt for no sugar added canned mandarins for a healthier option.
• Romaine Lettuce – Provides freshness and crunch; substitute with other leafy greens like spinach or kale if desired.
• Cooked Chicken – Serves as the protein base; rotisserie chicken or poached chicken makes preparation a breeze.
• Garlic Chives – Adds a mild onion flavor; can be swapped with green onions if not available.
• Slivered Almonds – Offers a satisfying crunch; replace with sunflower seeds for a nut-free alternative.
• Dang Foods Lightly Salted Coconut Chips – Provides a sweet and crunchy texture as a noodle substitute; ensure they are sugar-free.
• Toasted Sesame Seeds – Enhances flavor and visual appeal; optional if not in stock.
For the Dressing
• Coconut Aminos – Acts as a soy sauce alternative for umami flavor in the Paleo & Whole30 Mandarin Chicken Salad.
• Apple Cider Vinegar – Adds a tangy kick to the dressing.
• Mandarin Juice – For extra sweetness and a splash of flavor.
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil – Offers healthy fats and richness.
• Toasted Sesame Oil – Adds depth to the dressing’s flavor.
• Minced Fresh Ginger – Brings warmth and spiciness.
• Sea Salt and Black Pepper – Essential for seasoning; adjust to taste.
• Garlic – Minced for aromatic flavor that ties the dressing together beautifully.
How to Make Paleo & Whole30 Mandarin Chicken Salad
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Drain: Carefully drain the mandarin oranges, reserving 2 tablespoons of juice for the dressing. This step ensures your salad won’t become soggy.
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Combine: In a large mixing bowl, combine the mandarin oranges, chopped romaine lettuce, cooked chicken, garlic chives, and slivered almonds. Gently toss the ingredients together to mix the flavors.
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Whisk Dressing: In a separate bowl, whisk together the reserved mandarin juice, coconut aminos, apple cider vinegar, olive oil, sesame oil, minced fresh ginger, sea salt, black pepper, and minced garlic. This dressing brings a wonderful zing to your salad!
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Dress the Salad: Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss gently to ensure everything is evenly coated and flavored. This is where the magic happens!
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Top and Serve: Just before serving, top your delicious salad with the lightly salted coconut chips and toasted sesame seeds. Serve immediately to enjoy fresh textures.
Optional: Add a sprinkle of crushed red pepper for a hint of spice!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Paleo & Whole30 Mandarin Chicken Salad
Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep the dressing separate to maintain the salad’s crispness.
Freezer: It’s best not to freeze the salad, as the vegetables and mandarin oranges will lose their texture and taste. However, you can freeze the cooked chicken separately for later use.
Reheating: If using leftover chicken from the salad, reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop. Avoid reheating the salad mixture, as it’s best enjoyed fresh.
Make-ahead: Prepare the salad ingredients a few hours in advance, but toss them with the dressing just before serving to keep flavors vibrant and textures enjoyable.
Paleo & Whole30 Mandarin Chicken Salad Variations
Feel free to mix and match these ideas to create a salad that’s uniquely yours!
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Fruit Swap: Change out the mandarin oranges for chopped apples or pears for a sweet, crunchy twist. The crispness of apples brings a nice bite to your salad.
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Protein Alternative: Substitute cooked shrimp or tofu for the chicken to give a seafood or plant-based flair. Both add a unique texture and flavor that’s equally satisfying.
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Crunchy Vegetables: Toss in diced bell peppers or crunchy cucumbers for added freshness and color. These veggies elevate the salad’s texture, making each bite a crunchy delight.
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Nut-Free Option: Replace slivered almonds with sunflower seeds for a nut-free version. They provide the same satisfying crunch without the allergens.
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Herb Boost: Incorporate fresh herbs like cilantro or basil to enhance flavor. Their vibrant notes bring a fresh aroma that can liven up your salad.
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Zesty Kick: Add sliced jalapeño or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper for a pleasant heat level. The spice creates a flavor profile that dances on your taste buds!
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Creamy Dressing: Mix in a dollop of avocado or a scoop of coconut yogurt for a creamy dressing alternative. It adds a rich texture that complements the sweetness of the mandarin.
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Citrus Variation: Try using grapefruit segments instead of mandarins for a tangy flavor profile. The bitterness of grapefruit offers a delightful contrast to the dish, making it unexpectedly refreshing.
Make Ahead Options
This Paleo & Whole30 Mandarin Chicken Salad with Coconut Chips is a fantastic choice for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the salad components—mandarin oranges, chopped romaine lettuce, cooked chicken, garlic chives, and slivered almonds—up to 3 days in advance. Simply store them in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness. The dressing can also be whisked together and refrigerated for up to 24 hours; just give it a quick stir before using. When you’re ready to serve, combine everything in a bowl, toss it with the dressing, and top with coconut chips just before digging in. This way, you’ll enjoy a vibrant and delicious salad with minimal effort, perfect for busy weeknights!
Expert Tips for Paleo & Whole30 Mandarin Chicken Salad
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Drain Thoroughly: Ensure to drain the mandarin oranges well to avoid excess liquid in the salad, which can make it soggy.
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Flavor Infusion: Allow the salad to sit for a few minutes after tossing with the dressing. This lets the flavors meld beautifully, enhancing your dining experience.
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Salt Awareness: Be cautious with the amount of salt in the dressing; the coconut chips are lightly salted. Adjust the seasoning to suit your taste, keeping the Paleo & Whole30 Mandarin Chicken Salad balanced.
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Freshness Matters: For optimal taste and texture, serve the salad immediately after preparing. If making ahead, keep the dressing separate until serving to maintain crunch.
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Mix It Up: Customize with your favorite veggies or proteins. Adding fresh herbs or spicy elements can elevate the dish, making your salad uniquely yours.
What to Serve with Paleo & Whole30 Mandarin Chicken Salad?
This luscious salad is the star of any meal, but the right sides can take your dining experience to the next level.
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Quinoa with Herbs: This fluffy texture complements the crunch of the salad while adding a protein boost. A hint of lemon or parsley enhances its freshness, pairing perfectly.
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Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy, caramelized, and full of flavor, these veggies create a delightful contrast with the sweet mandarin oranges. Their earthy taste rounds out the entire meal beautifully.
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Coconut Cauliflower Rice: This light, grain-free alternative absorbs the flavors of your main dish while offering a tropical vibe that harmonizes with the coconut chips.
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Crispy Sweet Potato Wedges: A touch of sweetness and a satisfying crunch balance the savory flavors of the salad. These can be seasoned simply with salt or tossed in paprika for a flavor kick.
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Mixed Green Salad: A fresh salad of mixed greens with a light vinaigrette adds vibrant colors and textures that amplify the whole experience. Incorporate some nuts or seeds for added crunch.
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Fruit-Infused Sparkling Water: Refreshing and light, this beverage can cleanse the palate and enhance the citrus notes of the salad. Choose slices of fresh cucumber or berries for a punch of flavor.
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Mango Sorbet: For dessert, this fruity delight offers a sweet finish without derailing your healthy eating goals. Its refreshing nature pairs wonderfully with the vibrant salad.
Paleo & Whole30 Mandarin Chicken Salad with Coconut Chips Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe mandarin oranges?
Look for mandarins that are firm and heavy for their size, with smooth, shiny skin. Avoid fruit with dark spots and blemishes, as these can indicate overripeness or spoilage. When you press lightly on the skin, it should yield slightly, showing a juicy fruit inside.
What’s the best way to store leftovers of this salad?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To maintain the salad’s appealing crunch, be sure to keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve. This helps prevent the greens from wilting and soaking up excess moisture.
Can I freeze this salad for later?
It’s best not to freeze the entire salad, as the vegetables and mandarin oranges will lose their texture upon thawing. However, you can freeze the cooked chicken separately for up to 3 months. Just remember to thaw it in the fridge and add it back to the salad fresh just before serving!
What if my salad seems too soggy?
If you find your salad is too soggy, it may be due to excess moisture from the mandarin oranges or other ingredients. To fix this, drain the ingredients thoroughly before mixing. If it’s already made, consider adding a handful of fresh lettuce or additional coconut chips to absorb some moisture and restore a bit of crunch!
Are there any dietary considerations for this salad?
Yes! The Paleo & Whole30 Mandarin Chicken Salad is gluten-free and contains no refined sugars, which makes it suitable for many dietary restrictions. However, if you have nut allergies, feel free to substitute the slivered almonds with sunflower seeds or omit them entirely! Always check that your coconut chips are sugar-free and certified gluten-free to meet your dietary needs.
Paleo & Whole30 Mandarin Chicken Salad with Crunchy Coconut Chips
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Carefully drain the mandarin oranges, reserving 2 tablespoons of juice for the dressing.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the mandarin oranges, chopped romaine lettuce, cooked chicken, garlic chives, and slivered almonds.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the reserved mandarin juice, coconut aminos, apple cider vinegar, olive oil, sesame oil, minced fresh ginger, sea salt, black pepper, and minced garlic.
- Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss gently.
- Top your salad with the lightly salted coconut chips and toasted sesame seeds.