Satay Crispy Rice Salad Recipe

Imagine crunchy, golden rice mingling with juicy chicken, crisp veggies and a flood of creamy, sweet-salty peanut dressing—Satay Crispy Rice Salad is truly a flavor playground in every bite! This salad brings all the textures and punchy Southeast Asian flavors you love, while being refreshingly light and satisfying. It’s a crave-worthy riff on the classic satay combo, brightened up and perfect for any time you want a salad that feels like a celebration.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient here plays a starring role—think bright herbs, rich peanut butter, and those essential drizzles of chili and sesame oil. You’ll love how everything layers together for bold flavors, and how easy it is to source almost everything at your favorite supermarket!

• Cooked long-grain rice: Day-old rice is your best friend for perfect crispiness, making each bite that signature golden crunch.
• Sesame oil & chili oil: These boost the aroma and give the rice that mouthwatering toasted/smoky kick.
• Soy sauce (or tamari): Adds savoriness and ties the salad together—swap for gluten-free if needed!
• Cooked chicken breast: Use leftover roast chicken or a quick poached breast for protein and tenderness.
• Edamame beans: These little green gems bring a fresh pop of color and plant protein.
• Scallions: For a delicate onion-y crunch that wakes everything up.
• Cucumber: Diced for coolness and juicy crunch—this mellows the rich satay.
• Sesame seeds: Toasted sesame seeds lend a subtle nutty layer and pretty specks.
• Thai basil, mint, and cilantro: Three herbs = next level freshness and garden-bright flavor throughout.
• Roasted peanuts: Crushed peanuts add classic satay crunch and extra richness.
• Red chili (optional): For those who crave a punch of heat—totally adjustable!
• Natural peanut butter: The star of the satay dressing, giving it that creamy and nutty classic flavor.
• Fish sauce: Don’t skip this—just a splash gives deep umami and that addictive Thai edge.
• Sweet chili jam: Adds subtle sweetness with a gentle tingle of chili heat.
• Water: Loosens up the dressing for just the right drizzle-able texture.

Variations

The beauty of Satay Crispy Rice Salad is how endlessly adaptable it is! Whether you’re clearing out the fridge or catering to dietary needs, there’s a delicious twist for everyone—so don’t be afraid to put your personal spin on it.

• Vegetarian (or Vegan): Swap the chicken for pan-seared tofu or tempeh, and use vegan fish sauce or a splash of extra soy sauce.
• Low-Carb: Try swapping cooked cauliflower rice for a lighter but still satisfyingly crispy base.
• Add More Veggies: Toss in shredded carrots, sliced bell pepper, or snap peas for even more crunch and color.
• Spice It Up: Stir a touch of sriracha or extra red chili into the dressing if you like things with more bite.
• Swap the Nuts: Allergic to peanuts? Almond butter and roasted almonds make a fantastic alternative.

How to Make Satay Crispy Rice Salad

Step 1: Crisp Up the Rice

Start by spreading your cooked, cooled rice in an even layer on a nonstick pan. Drizzle with sesame oil and chili oil, and press gently with a spatula. Cook over medium-high heat without stirring, letting it get golden and crunchy on the bottom—about 8–10 minutes. Don’t rush this step: it’s the secret to those incredibly satisfying crispy bits!

Step 2: Prepare the Satay Dressing

While the rice crisps, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, sesame oil, fish sauce, sweet chili jam, and water in a small bowl. Whisk until smooth, creamy, and pourable—add more water if needed. Taste and adjust for more salt, sweetness, or heat as you wish.

Step 3: Prep the Fresh Salad Ingredients

Chop your cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces. Slice scallions thinly, dice the cucumber, and pop the herbs—Thai basil, mint, and cilantro—off their stems and give them a rough chop. Crack open your edamame, and have your chili, sesame seeds, and peanuts ready for the final toss.

Step 4: Assemble and Toss

In a large bowl, pile in those crispy shards of rice, chicken, beans, cucumber, scallions, and herbs. Drizzle generously with your satay dressing, sprinkle with crushed peanuts, sesame seeds, and sliced chili if using. Gently toss until everything glistens with flavor—don’t overmix so the rice stays crunchy.

Step 5: Plate and Serve

Spoon your Satay Crispy Rice Salad into shallow bowls or a platter. Finish with extra herbs, a dash more chili oil, and a final flurry of peanuts. Serve straight away so you capture that fantastic mix of hot, cold, tender, and crisp in every bite!

How to Serve Satay Crispy Rice Salad

Garnishes

A flurry of extra chopped peanuts, sesame seeds, and a shower of fresh herbs are my top picks for a final flourish. If you like heat, a scatter of thinly sliced red chili or even an extra drizzle of chili oil makes Satay Crispy Rice Salad absolutely pop. A wedge of lime on the side is always welcome for spritzing, too.

Side Dishes

Satay Crispy Rice Salad is hearty enough for a meal, but it loves company. Pair it with grilled corn, a platter of summer rolls, or even a refreshing Thai mango salad. For something cozy, a bowl of simple miso soup on the side is a gentle touch.

Creative Ways to Present

I love heaping Satay Crispy Rice Salad onto a big platter and letting everyone dig in, family-style. Or, get festive by filling lettuce leaves or rice paper wraps with the salad for a fun, build-your-own spread—a surefire hit at parties and picnics!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, pop them into an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to 2 days. The rice will soften a bit over time, but the flavors stay bright and satisfying—sometimes it’s even tastier the next day!

Freezing

While you technically can freeze the components separately, Satay Crispy Rice Salad is best enjoyed fresh. If you want to prep ahead, you can freeze the chicken and rice individually, then crisp and toss together before serving for that signature crunch.

Reheating

To revive the salad, re-crisp the rice in a hot, dry pan for a few minutes, then reassemble with the cold salad ingredients and fresh dressing. Avoid microwaving—it softens the crunchy rice and wilts the fresh herbs.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Satay Crispy Rice Salad is one of those dishes you’ll want to make again and again—bright, bold, and wildly satisfying. If you’re craving something out of the ordinary but easy enough for a weeknight, give this recipe a try and watch your table light up with happy faces. Enjoy every crunchy, creamy bite!

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