INDONESIAN-STYLE CHICKEN SALAD

Indonesian-Style Chicken Salad image

Poached chicken breasts, which are at the center of this salad, are a low-fat, high-protein staple with endless possibilities. In this recipe, inspiration comes from the Southeast Asian country of Indonesia. Mint leaves and cilantro add a fresh bite and mung bean sprouts or sunflower sprouts help to fill out the dish. This spicy, refreshing salad makes a great summer meal.

Provided by Martha Rose Shulman

Time 15m

Yield 4 to 6 servings

Number Of Ingredients 18

Ingredients

1 whole chicken breast or 2 boneless skinless breasts, poached and shredded about 4 cups shredded chicken
Salt
freshly ground pepper (optional)
1 bunch scallions, white part and green, thinly sliced
1/4 cup slivered fresh mint leaves
1/4 cup chopped cilantro
1 small red bell pepper, cut in thin strips
1 serrano pepper, finely chopped seeded if desired
2 cups mung bean sprouts or sunflower sprouts
1 romaine lettuce heart, leaves separated, washed and dried
1/4 cup chopped roasted peanuts
1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
2 teaspoons finely chopped fresh ginger
1 garlic clove, minced
1 tablespoon Southeast Asian fish sauce
Pinch of cayenne
2 tablespoons crunchy or smooth natural peanut butter (more to taste)
1/3 cup buttermilk

Steps:

Place the chicken in a large bowl, and season with salt and pepper. Add the white part of the scallions, the mint, cilantro, red pepper, minced chile pepper and sprouts. Toss together.
Combine the lime juice, ginger, garlic, fish sauce and cayenne. Stir together. Add the peanut butter, and combine well. Whisk in the buttermilk. Taste and adjust seasonings.
Line a platter with the lettuce leaves. Toss the chicken mixture with the dressing, and arrange over the lettuce. Sprinkle the peanuts and the scallion greens over the top, and serve.

Nutrition Facts : @context http, Calories 156, UnsaturatedFat 6 grams, Carbohydrate 10 grams, Fat 9 grams, Fiber 3 grams, Protein 12 grams, SaturatedFat 2 grams, Sodium 422 milligrams, Sugar 5 grams, TransFat 0 grams