PEANUT-CHICKEN NOODLE SALAD

Peanut-Chicken Noodle Salad image

Provided by Food Network

Time 40m

Yield 4 to 6 servings

Number Of Ingredients 16

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Kosher salt
4 ounces thin Asian wheat noodles
1 tablespoon low-sodium soy sauce
1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
2 skinless, boneless chicken breasts (about 8 ounces each)
1 large handful unsalted cashews
1 red jalapeno or Fresno chile pepper, seeded and finely chopped
1/2 English cucumber, halved lengthwise and thinly sliced
1 small handful bean sprouts
1 small handful chopped fresh cilantro
1 scallion, thinly sliced
For the peanut sauce:
1 tablespoon peanut oil
2 small shallots, finely chopped
3 tablespoons crunchy peanut butter
6 tablespoons low-sodium vegetable broth

Steps:

Make the salad: Bring a medium pot of salted water to a boil; add the noodles and cook as the label directs. Drain, then toss with the soy sauce and sesame oil in a large bowl; cover and chill until needed.
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Reduce the heat to medium low, add the chicken and simmer until cooked through, about 10 minutes. Drain and shred the chicken; set aside.
Heat a wok or medium skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the cashews, stirring, until browned, about 3 minutes. Let cool slightly, then place in a plastic bag and bash with a rolling pin.
Make the peanut sauce: Heat the wok over high heat and add the peanut oil. Add the shallots and fry until translucent, about 45 seconds; add the peanut butter and jalapeno and stir-fry less than 1 minute. Stir in the vegetable broth and 3 tablespoons water. When the sauce starts to bubble, remove from the heat and transfer to a bowl. Season with salt. (If you like your sauce thinner, stir in a few tablespoons of water.)
Assemble the salad: Divide the noodles, jalapeno, cucumber, bean sprouts, cilantro and scallion among bowls; top with the shredded chicken. Drizzle with the peanut sauce and sprinkle with the crushed cashews.