This recipe delivers the satisfying crunch of the viral TikTok crispy rice salad, featuring tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and a rich, creamy peanut dressing. It is an Asian-inspired dish perfect for lunch, dinner, or meal prep.
Author:Cat
Prep Time:15 min
Cook Time:30 min
Total Time:45 min
Yield:4 servings 1x
Category:Lunch
Method:Baking
Cuisine:Asian Inspired
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
2 cups cooked jasmine rice, cooled
1 tablespoon sesame oil
1 teaspoon soy sauce
1/2 teaspoon chili crisp (optional)
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
1 large cucumber, thinly sliced
1 cup shelled edamame, cooked
1/2 cup shredded red cabbage
1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
1/4 cup chopped scallions
1/4 cup chopped peanuts, for garnish
For the Creamy Peanut Dressing:
1/3 cup creamy peanut butter
3 tablespoons rice vinegar
2 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari
1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
1 clove garlic, minced
3–5 tablespoons warm water, to thin
Instructions
Prepare the Crispy Rice: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a bowl, mix the cooled cooked rice with sesame oil, soy sauce, and chili crisp, if using. Press the seasoned rice firmly into a thin, even layer on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the rice is golden brown and crisp. Break into bite-sized clusters once cooled slightly.
Cook the Chicken: Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken until fully cooked through and lightly browned, about 6-8 minutes per side depending on thickness. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes, then slice or shred it.
Make the Peanut Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the peanut butter, rice vinegar, soy sauce, honey (or maple syrup), lime juice, grated ginger, and minced garlic. Slowly whisk in the warm water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dressing reaches a smooth, pourable consistency.
Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the sliced cucumber, edamame, red cabbage, cilantro, and scallions. Add the crispy rice clusters and the cooked chicken.
Dress and Serve: Drizzle the peanut dressing over the salad ingredients. Gently toss everything together until lightly coated. Divide the salad among serving bowls and garnish with chopped peanuts before serving.
Notes
For the crispiest rice, ensure your cooked rice is slightly dry before seasoning and pressing it onto the pan.
You can substitute chicken with grilled salmon or firm tofu for a different protein option.
If you prefer a thinner dressing, add more warm water to the peanut mixture until you reach your desired consistency.