Delicious Mandarin Orange Salad with Chicken and Nutty Crunch

Published: November 17, 2025

by Grace Bennett

Why You'll Love This Mandarin Orange Salad

This incredible Mandarin Orange Salad transforms simple everyday ingredients into restaurant-quality flavors that will blow your mind completely.
Foolproof recipe techniques guarantee perfect results every single time, making even novice cooks feel like professional chefs instantly.
Stunning visual appeal with gorgeous colors and mouthwatering aromas creates the ultimate Instagram-worthy dish for any special occasion.
Endlessly adaptable for different dietary needs while working beautifully for meal prep, date nights, or entertaining large groups effortlessly.

Ingredients for Mandarin Orange Salad

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Mandarin Orange Salad:

1/3 cup oil – Use a light oil such as canola or vegetable oil for a neutral flavor that won’t overwhelm the other ingredients.

3 tablespoons red wine vinegar – This brings a tangy element to the dressing; feel free to substitute with apple cider vinegar for a slightly sweeter taste.

2 tablespoons sugar – White or brown sugar will work here, but brown sugar adds depth and a hint of caramel flavor.

1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley – Adds a burst of freshness; look for bright green leaves for the best flavor.

Coarse salt and pepper to taste – Don’t skip on seasoning! It’s essential to enhance all the flavors in the salad.

1 head of cut red leaf lettuce – This type of lettuce adds a beautiful color and mild flavor; make sure it’s crisp and fresh.

1 head of cut romaine lettuce – Adds sturdiness and crunch to the salad, complementing the softer leaves.

3 thinly sliced stalks of celery – Brings a satisfying crunch and refreshing taste to the mix.

1 thinly sliced bunch of green onions – These add a mild onion flavor without overpowering the other ingredients.

2 cooked chicken breasts, cut into ½” size pieces – You can grill or roast your chicken for added flavor; pre-cooked rotisserie chicken works great too.

1/4 cup peanuts – Unsalted, for a bit of crunch and nuttiness; try using toasted peanuts for extra flavor.

1/4 cup sliced almonds – These add a more delicate crunch and a nutty flavor that complements the oranges.

1 cup canned or fresh mandarin oranges – For a sweet and juicy burst of flavor; if using canned, opt for those in juice or water.

1 tablespoon minced fresh mint – Adds a refreshing twist; keep it finely minced for the best distribution.

1 tablespoon minced fresh basil – Provides aromatic sweetness; fresh is always best, but dried basil can work in a pinch.

Coarse salt and pepper to taste – Remember to season throughout the process for maximum flavor!

How to Make Mandarin Orange Salad

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Mandarin Orange Salad:

Step 1: Prepare the Dressing
In a bowl, combine the oil, red wine vinegar, sugar, parsley, and a generous pinch of salt and pepper. Whisk vigorously until the mixture is well combined and emulsified. Set it aside to let the flavors deepen.

Step 2: Prepare the Salad Base
In a large serving bowl, add the red leaf and romaine lettuce. These greens will be the foundation of your salad, so make sure to break them into bite-sized pieces for easy eating.

Step 3: Add the Crunch
Toss in the sliced celery, green onions, peanuts, and sliced almonds to the lettuce. This step is where the crunch factor comes to life, balancing beautifully with the creaminess of the dressing.

Step 4: Incorporate the Chicken
Next, add the cooked chicken pieces to the salad. Gently fold everything together, ensuring the chicken is evenly mixed with the crunchy ingredients.

Step 5: Mix in the Mandarins and Herbs
Now it’s time for the stars of the show: the mandarin oranges, fresh mint, and basil. Carefully fold these in to avoid breaking the oranges while also melding those lovely herb flavors into the mix.

Step 6: Dress the Salad
Finally, drizzle the prepared dressing over the top and add more salt and pepper to taste. Toss everything together gently so that the dressing coats all the wonderful ingredients.

Transfer to plates and serve this refreshing Mandarin Orange Salad as a lovely side dish or a light main course. Enjoy every vibrant bite!

This showstopping Mandarin Orange Salad delivers restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients you probably already have at home. The perfect balance of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds. Picture-perfect presentation with vibrant colors makes this dish absolutely Instagram-worthy and guaranteed to impress any dinner guest. Incredibly versatile recipe that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, special occasions, or even outdoor entertaining sessions.

Perfecting Mandarin Orange Salad Cooking Process

Start by whisking together the dressing ingredients before anything else, allowing the flavors to meld. While the dressing rests, chop your veggies and slice the chicken. Toss everything together just before serving for maximum freshness and crunch.

Add Your Touch to Mandarin Orange Salad

Feel free to swap out the chicken for tofu or shrimp for a different protein experience. You could also change up the nuts based on your preferences, or add fruits like strawberries for an extra burst of flavor.

Storing & Reheating Mandarin Orange Salad

To store, keep the salad and dressing separate in airtight containers for up to two days. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply mix and serve without reheating to maintain freshness and crunch.

Chef's Helpful Tips for Mandarin Orange Salad

This professional-quality Mandarin Orange Salad relies on precise timing and temperature control to achieve restaurant-standard results consistently.
Master the art of mise en place by prepping all ingredients beforehand, ensuring smooth execution and preventing any last-minute cooking disasters.
The secret lies in layering flavors throughout the cooking process rather than seasoning only at the end for maximum depth.
Pro tip: let the finished dish rest for optimal texture and flavor development before serving to hungry guests waiting eagerly.

There’s a charm in making this salad that brings back memories of summer picnics with friends, where everyone couldn’t get enough of the crunchy goodness and zesty flavors.

FAQs About Mandarin Orange Salad

What is Mandarin Orange Salad?

Mandarin Orange Salad is a vibrant, refreshing dish that combines the juicy sweetness of mandarin oranges with crisp greens and savory proteins. Made with a mix of lettuce, tender chicken, crunchy nuts, and a tangy dressing, this salad is perfect for any occasion. It’s an excellent choice for a light meal or a side dish that brings a burst of flavor to any table. The combination of textures and flavors makes it a favorite among both adults and children.

How can I customize my Mandarin Orange Salad?

Customization is the name of the game with Mandarin Orange Salad! You can swap chicken for grilled shrimp, rotisserie chicken, or even tofu for a vegetarian version. Add other fruits like strawberries or apples for additional sweetness, and try incorporating different nuts based on your preference. For an extra crunch, consider adding crispy chickpeas or croutons. The dressing can also be adjusted according to your taste; a splash of soy sauce or sesame oil can elevate the flavors!

Can I make Mandarin Orange Salad ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the components of Mandarin Orange Salad in advance. Chop the veggies, slice the chicken, and mix the dressing ahead of time, then store them separately in airtight containers in the fridge. Combine everything just before serving to maintain the freshness and crunch. However, it’s best to add the dressing only when you’re ready to serve to avoid sogginess in the greens.

What ingredients should I use for the best Mandarin Orange Salad?

To make the best Mandarin Orange Salad, opt for fresh, high-quality ingredients. Choose crisp, colorful lettuces like red leaf and romaine for a vibrant base. Fresh mandarin oranges, whether canned or seasonal, provide a sweet pop of flavor. Don’t forget the nuts for crunch; almonds and peanuts work wonderfully. Fresh herbs like mint and basil can add a delightful aromatic element. Lastly, a homemade vinaigrette made with red wine vinegar, oil, and herbs can really elevate the dish.

Conclusion for Mandarin Orange Salad

In summary, the Mandarin Orange Salad is a delightful blend of fresh ingredients and vibrant flavors that can elevate any meal. Its versatility allows for easy customization, making it suitable for a variety of tastes. Whether served as a light lunch, a side for dinner, or a star at your next gathering, this salad is sure to impress. With its perfect balance of textures and flavors, the Mandarin Orange Salad will become a cherished recipe in your culinary repertoire.