15-Minute Chicken Wild Rice Salad
A hearty, colorful salad combining tender chicken with nutty wild rice, sweet dried fruits, and crisp vegetables. The tangy soy sauce dressing with a hint of sweetness ties together the diverse textures and flavors. Perfect for potlucks, meal prep, or a satisfying lunch that travels well. The combination of protein, whole grains, and fruit makes this both filling and nutritious.
Ingredients
- 1 package fast-cooking long-grain and wild rice mix, 6.2 oz
- 2 cups cooked chicken or turkey, chopped
- 1 medium eating apple, unpeeled, chopped
- 1 medium green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 medium celery stalk, chopped
- ½ cup dried apricots, chopped
- ⅓ cup dried cherries, chopped
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons water
- 2 teaspoons sugar
- 2 teaspoons cider vinegar
- ⅓ cup dry-roasted peanuts
Instructions
- 1
Cook rice mix as directed on package, omitting butter
- 2
Spread rice evenly in thin layer on large cookie sheet and let stand until cool, stirring occasionally
- 3
Mix chicken, apple, bell pepper, celery, apricots and cherries in large bowl
- 4
Whisk soy sauce, water, sugar and vinegar in small bowl until sugar dissolves
- 5
Add rice and soy sauce mixture to apple mixture and toss gently until coated
- 6
Add peanuts and toss gently
Tips
Let rice cool completely before mixing to prevent wilting the fresh ingredients and maintain distinct textures.
Use a mix of sweet and tart apple varieties for the best flavor balance in this salad.
Toast the peanuts lightly if you want extra crunch and deeper nutty flavor.
Good to Know
Refrigerate up to 3 days in covered container
Can be made 1 day ahead, add peanuts just before serving
Serve chilled or at room temperature
Common Mistakes
Don't add warm rice to prevent wilting vegetables
Dissolve sugar completely to avoid gritty dressing
Substitutions
Gluten-Free Swaps
Nut-Free Alternatives
General Alternatives
FAQ
Can I use leftover rotisserie chicken?
Yes, rotisserie chicken works perfectly. Remove skin and shred or chop the meat into bite-sized pieces.
How long will this salad keep?
Store covered in refrigerator up to 3 days. Add peanuts just before serving to maintain crunch.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Replace soy sauce with tamari or gluten-free soy sauce and ensure rice mix is gluten-free.