Peanut Chicken Salad Recipes

Steps:

• START THE WATER: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
• POACH THE CHICKEN: Bring 1 1/2 cups water to a simmer in a medium skillet. Whisk in the peanut butter, then add the chicken. Cook over medium-low heat at a bare simmer until just cooked through, 3 to 5 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the chicken to a plate; continue to simmer the sauce until thickened and reduced by about half, about 5 minutes. Take off the heat and whisk in the vinegar, soy sauce, Sriracha, and scallions. Cool slightly.
• COOK THE NOODLES: Add the rice noodles to the boiling water and cook until almost tender, about 3 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool. Drain the noodles very well, tossing with tongs to release as much water as possible. Snip the noodles with scissors a few times to cut the long strands.
• TOSS THE SALAD: Toss the noodles with the romaine, cucumbers, bell pepper, half of the cilantro, and just enough dressing to coat. Season with salt. Divide among 4 bowls and top with the chicken. Drizzle the remaining dressing over the top and garnish with the remaining cilantro. Serve with lime wedges.

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.