Satay Crispy Rice Salad Recipe

The Zesty Satay Crispy Rice Salad Recipe Everyone Will Love

Crispy rice salad brings an electrifying twist to traditional Southeast Asian fare that will spark your culinary curiosity.

Unexpected textures dance across your plate with each delightful bite.

Nutty peanuts and fragrant herbs create a symphony of flavors that challenge ordinary salad expectations.

Succulent protein mingles with crunchy rice fragments, promising an adventure for adventurous palates.

Light yet satisfying, this dish breaks free from mundane meal patterns.

Vibrant ingredients communicate a narrative of bold, uncompromising taste.

Satay Crispy Rice Salad That You Can’t Resist

Unlock Culinary Magic with Satay Crispy Rice Salad

  • Master Texture Transformation: Turn ordinary rice into a crispy, golden delight that adds incredible crunch and depth to your salad, transforming a simple ingredient into a gourmet experience.
  • Craft Complex Flavor Layers: Blend satay dressing with fresh herbs, creating a harmonious mix of creamy, nutty, and zesty notes that dance across your taste buds with every bite.
  • Customize Your Culinary Adventure: Swap proteins, adjust spice levels, or include different vegetables to make this recipe uniquely yours, perfect for experimenting home cooks who love personalization.
  • Quick Assembly, Maximum Impact: Combine pre-prepared components like crispy rice and satay dressing for a stunning dish that looks impressive but requires minimal hands-on cooking time.

Ingredients Needed for Satay Crispy Rice Salad

For the Rice Base:
  • White Rice: A crucial ingredient that forms the crispy foundation of the salad.
  • Parchment Paper: Helps prevent sticking and ensures even crisping of the rice.
For the Crispy Rice Seasoning:
  • Soy Sauce, Sesame Oil, Chili Oil: Provide rich, savory, and spicy flavors to the rice base.
For the Protein:
  • Chicken: Adds protein and substance to the salad.
For the Fresh Herbs and Vegetables:
  • Edamame, Cucumber: Bring freshness and crunch to the salad.
  • Cilantro, Mint, Thai Basil: Contribute bright, aromatic herbal notes.
  • Red Chili: Offers optional heat and additional flavor.
  • Scallions: Provide a mild onion-like freshness.
For the Satay Dressing:
  • Peanut Butter: Creates a rich, creamy base for the dressing.
  • Soy Sauce, Sesame Oil, Fish Sauce: Add depth and umami flavor.
  • Sweet Chili Jam: Introduces a sweet and spicy element.
  • Water: Helps achieve the perfect dressing consistency.
For the Garnish:
  • Peanuts, Sesame Seeds: Add texture and nutty flavor to the final dish.

Step-by-Step Satay Crispy Rice Salad Instructions

Step 1: Cook Perfect Rice

Combine rice and water in a small pot. Bring to a boil over high heat, then cover and simmer on low for 12 minutes.

Let the rice steam for 10 minutes after cooking. Gently fluff with a fork and spread on a parchment-lined tray.

Refrigerate for at least 10 minutes to cool completely.

Step 2: Transform Rice into Crispy Delight

Heat the oven to 400°F (200°C).

Prepare the cooled rice with a delicious flavor mixture:
  • Soy sauce
  • Sesame oil
  • Chili oil

Mix these ingredients thoroughly with the rice. Spread the rice in a thin, even layer on the parchment-lined tray.

Bake for 25-30 minutes, keeping a close eye after 15 minutes to prevent burning. You want golden, crispy edges that crunch with every bite.

Step 3: Create Satay Dressing Magic

In a bowl or jar, blend the following into a rich, creamy sauce:
  • Peanut butter
  • Soy sauce
  • Sesame oil
  • Fish sauce
  • Sweet chili jam

Gradually add water while stirring to achieve a smooth, heavy cream-like consistency.

Step 4: Assemble Vibrant Salad

Combine in a large bowl:
  • Edamame
  • Cucumber
  • Chicken
  • Cilantro
  • Mint
  • Thai basil
  • Red chili (optional)
  • Most of the peanuts
  • Sesame seeds
  • Scallions

Add the crispy rice and half the dressing, tossing gently to mix.

Drizzle with additional dressing and sprinkle remaining peanuts on top before serving.

Tips to Make This Salad a Staple

  • Refrigerate rice for at least 10 minutes to ensure maximum crispiness and prevent clumping during baking.
  • Check rice every 15 minutes while baking to avoid burning and achieve perfect golden-brown edges.
  • Add water gradually to the satay dressing, stirring continuously to create a smooth, creamy texture that coats ingredients evenly.
  • Use fresh cilantro, mint, and Thai basil for vibrant flavors and aromatic depth in the salad.
  • Control heat by adjusting red chili amount or using milder alternatives for those with sensitive palates.

Variations to Keep It Fresh and Exciting

  • Seafood Sensation: Replace chicken with grilled shrimp or seared scallops for a fresh ocean-inspired variation that brings coastal flavors to the salad.
  • Vegetarian Delight: Swap chicken with crispy tofu or roasted chickpeas, adding extra protein and creating a plant-based alternative that maintains the dish's exciting texture.
  • Spicy Southeast Asian Version: Increase chili content by adding sambal oelek, fresh bird's eye chilies, and a dash of sriracha to intensify the heat and authentic regional profile.
  • Korean-Inspired Fusion: Incorporate gochujang into the dressing, top with kimchi, and sprinkle furikake instead of sesame seeds for a Korean-influenced interpretation of the original recipe.

Pairing Suggestions to Accompany the Salad

  • Craft a Zesty Beer Companion: Grab a crisp Thai or Vietnamese lager like Singha or Chang, which cuts through the rich satay dressing and refreshes the palate with its light, hoppy profile.
  • Balance with Citrus Cooler: Prepare a fresh lime and lemongrass mocktail or cocktail that echoes the salad's bright herbs and provides a tangy counterpoint to the nutty, savory elements.
  • Match with Chilled White Wine: Select a slightly sweet Riesling or Gewürztraminer with subtle acidity that complements the salad's complex flavor layers, enhancing the herbal and spicy notes.

Storage Tips for Satay Crispy Rice Salad

Store leftover crispy rice salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Keep the dressing separate to maintain the rice’s crispiness.

Freeze individual portions in sealed containers for maximum 1 month. Separate rice, protein, and vegetables to prevent sogginess.

Spread rice on a baking sheet, bake at 375F for 10-12 minutes to restore crispiness. Warm protein and vegetables separately to prevent overcooking.

Avoid microwaving if possible, as it will make crispy rice soggy. If needed, reheat at 50% power in short 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval.

FAQs

  • How do I prevent the rice from sticking to the baking tray?

Use parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to ensure the crispy rice doesn’t stick and breaks easily when removing from the tray.

  • Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, replace chicken with tofu or tempeh and use vegetarian fish sauce or soy sauce as a substitute to maintain the umami flavor.

  • What if I don't have all the fresh herbs?

You can use a combination of herbs you have available, such as parsley or basil, though Thai herbs will provide the most authentic flavor profile.

  • Is this dish spicy?

The spice level depends on the amount of red chili and chili oil you add. You can control the heat by adjusting these ingredients to suit your preference.

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Satay Crispy Rice Salad Recipe

Satay Crispy Rice Salad Recipe


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4.5 from 27 reviews

  • Total Time: 1 hour 7 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Southeast Asian flavors dance through this crispy rice salad, delivering a harmonious blend of crunchy textures and bold satay-inspired seasonings. Zesty herbs, grilled protein, and caramelized rice create a delightful culinary journey you’ll savor with every refreshing bite.


Ingredients

Scale

Protein:

  • 2 Cooked chicken breasts, chopped or shredded
  • 1 cup Edamame beans, shelled

Base and Greens:

  • 2 cups Cooked long-grain rice (or 2/3 cup uncooked)
  • 3 Scallions, finely sliced
  • 1 Cucumber, diced
  • 1 Red chili, finely sliced (optional)
  • 1 handful Thai basil, chopped
  • 1 handful Mint leaves, chopped
  • 1 handful Cilantro, chopped

Seasonings and Garnishes:

  • 1 tablespoon Sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon Chili oil
  • 1 tablespoon Soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
  • 1 tablespoon Sesame seeds
  • 1/3 cup Roasted peanuts, crushed

Peanut Satay Dressing:

  • 1/2 cup Natural peanut butter
  • 2 tablespoons Soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon Sesame oil
  • 2 teaspoons Fish sauce
  • 1 tablespoon Sweet chili jam
  • 1/2 cup Water

Instructions

  1. Prepare the rice by combining it with water in a small pot. Bring to a rolling boil over high heat, then reduce to low, cover, and simmer for 12 minutes. Allow the rice to rest, covered, for an additional 10 minutes after cooking.
  2. Gently fluff the rice with a fork and spread it evenly on a parchment-lined tray. Refrigerate for at least 10 minutes to cool completely.
  3. Heat the oven to 400F (200C). Transfer the chilled rice to the tray and season with soy sauce, sesame oil, and chili oil. Thoroughly mix to coat each grain.
  4. Spread the rice in a thin, uniform layer. Bake for 25-30 minutes, monitoring closely at 15 and 20 minutes to prevent burning. The rice should develop golden, crispy edges.
  5. Create the satay dressing by combining peanut butter, soy sauce, sesame oil, fish sauce, and sweet chili jam in a bowl or jar. Whisk into a thick paste.
  6. Gradually add water while continuously stirring until the dressing reaches a smooth, creamy consistency similar to heavy cream.
  7. In a large mixing bowl, combine edamame, cucumber, chicken, herbs, red chili, most of the peanuts, sesame seeds, and scallions.
  8. Add the crispy rice and half the prepared dressing. Toss gently to ensure even distribution.
  9. Finish by drizzling additional dressing and sprinkling the remaining peanuts over the top before serving.

Notes

  • Refrigerate rice after cooking to help achieve maximum crispiness and prevent clumping during baking.
  • Use day-old or leftover rice for even better texture and guaranteed crispy results.
  • Drizzle oils evenly across rice to ensure consistent flavor and crunchiness throughout the dish.
  • Experiment with protein alternatives like tofu, shrimp, or plant-based options for dietary flexibility.
  • Toast sesame seeds and peanuts briefly to enhance their nutty flavor and aromatic profile.
  • Adjust dressing consistency by adding water gradually to prevent over-thinning.
  • Check rice every 5 minutes during baking to prevent burning and maintain perfect golden color.
  • Customize herb combinations based on personal preference or seasonal availability.
  • For gluten-free version, replace soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos.
  • Prep Time: 25 minutes
  • Cook Time: 42 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer, Snacks
  • Method: Boiling
  • Cuisine: Indonesian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 438 kcal
  • Sugar: 6 g
  • Sodium: 580 mg
  • Fat: 28 g
  • Saturated Fat: 5 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 21 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 27 g
  • Fiber: 5 g
  • Protein: 25 g
  • Cholesterol: 65 mg
Ethan Caldwell

Ethan Caldwell

Founder & Culinary Innovator

Expertise

Farm-to-table cooking, Seasonal recipe creation, Culinary storytelling, Food photography and styling​

Education

The Chef’s Academy (Indianapolis, IN)

  • Program: Associate Degree in Culinary Arts
  • Focus: Focused on sustainable cooking practices, regional American cuisine, and recipe development.​

Ethan didn’t just fall in love with food, he grew into it, surrounded by fields, farmers’ markets, and family meals that told a story.
After sharpening his skills at The Chef’s Academy, he took his passion straight into the farm-to-table movement, working side-by-side with local growers and seasonal flavors.
He believes every recipe should feel like a walk through a summer market: colorful, fresh, and full of possibility.
Outside the kitchen, Ethan’s idea of a perfect day is hiking mountain trails, digging into heirloom vegetables, and hosting casual dinners where seconds are always encouraged.

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