This Chinese chicken salad recipe is a vibrant and healthy dish that combines tender pieces of chicken with crisp vegetables and a tangy sesame dressing. Perfect for lunch or dinner, this salad is not only quick to prepare but also packed with flavors that will keep your taste buds dancing. The balance of textures from the crunchy cabbage and carrots to the succulent chicken creates a delightful experience in every bite.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
Readers will love this recipe for its wonderful blend of flavors and textures. The savory chicken pairs beautifully with the fresh, crunchy vegetables, and the sesame dressing adds a delightful zing that ties everything together. It’s an easy recipe that can be whipped up in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Additionally, this salad is versatile, fitting well into a healthy lifestyle, whether you’re looking for a low-carb option or simply wanting to incorporate more veggies into your diet.
Tips and Tricks
- Marinate the Chicken: For even more flavor, marinate the chicken in a mix of soy sauce, ginger, and garlic for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
- Use Pre-Cooked Chicken: Save time by using rotisserie chicken or leftover grilled chicken. Just shred it and toss it into the salad.
- Crunch Factor: Add some crispy wonton strips or toasted nuts like almonds for an extra crunch.
- Dressing: Make a double batch of the dressing and store it in the fridge. It goes well with other salads too!
- Veggie Variations: Feel free to mix in other vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, or green onions for added flavor and color.
Make Ahead Tips
You can prepare several components of this salad ahead of time. The chicken can be cooked and stored in the refrigerator for up to four days. The dressing can be made in advance and stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. Chop your vegetables a day ahead, but keep the cabbage and lettuce separate until you’re ready to serve to avoid sogginess. For best results, assemble the salad just before serving.
Recipe Variations
- Protein Swaps: Substitute the chicken with tofu for a vegetarian option or shrimp for a seafood twist.
- Different Greens: Instead of cabbage, try using kale or spinach for a different flavor profile.
- Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or a dash of sriracha to the dressing for some heat.
- Noodle Addition: Toss in some cooked rice noodles for a heartier salad.
How to Serve
Serve the Chinese chicken salad in a large, beautiful bowl or as individual portions for an elegant presentation. Garnish with sesame seeds, chopped green onions, and a few cilantro leaves for a pop of color. You can also add crispy wonton strips on top for an appealing crunch. Pair it with a light side of spring rolls or a bowl of hot wonton soup to complete the meal.
Pairing Suggestions
For drink pairings, a chilled Riesling or a light Sauvignon Blanc complements the salad perfectly. If you prefer cocktails, a refreshing gin and tonic with lime enhances the flavors beautifully. For dessert, consider serving a light mango sorbet or almond cookies to keep the meal light and refreshing.
How to Store
Leftover salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. However, if possible, keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat to maintain the salad’s crispness. If you have extra dressing, it can be stored for up to a week in the fridge. Freezing is not recommended due to the texture changes in the vegetables.
Equipment Needed
- A large mixing bowl for combining the salad.
- A whisk or jar for shaking the dressing.
- A sharp knife and cutting board for chopping vegetables.
- Optional: a meat thermometer for checking chicken doneness.
Dietary Adaptations
To make this recipe vegan, substitute chicken with marinated tofu or tempeh and use a vegan-friendly soy sauce. For a nut-free version, omit any nuts or seeds used in the garnish. To make the salad gluten-free, use tamari instead of regular soy sauce and ensure all other ingredients comply with gluten-free standards.
Seasonal Adaptations
In spring, add fresh peas and radishes for a pop of color and crunch. During the fall, consider incorporating roasted sweet potatoes or butternut squash for a hearty twist. In summer, use fresh herbs like basil or mint to brighten the flavors even more.
Recipe FAQs
- Can I use frozen chicken? Yes, but make sure to thaw it completely before cooking.
- What can I use instead of soy sauce? Coconut aminos is a great soy sauce alternative for a similar flavor.
- How long does it take to cook the chicken? Depending on the size of the chicken pieces, it typically takes about 7-10 minutes on medium heat.
- Can I add more vegetables? Absolutely! Feel free to add any of your favorite vegetables.
How To Make chinese chicken salad recipe
Chinese chicken salad
This Chinese chicken salad recipe is a vibrant and healthy dish that combines tender pieces of chicken with crisp vegetables and a tangy sesame dressing.
Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
- 4 cups napa cabbage, shredded
- 1 cup carrots, julienned
- 1 cup red bell pepper, sliced
- ½ cup green onions, chopped
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- ½ cup toasted sesame seeds
- ½ cup crispy wonton strips (optional)
For the Dressing:
- ¼ cup soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon honey (or agave syrup for vegan)
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 clove garlic, minced
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, napa cabbage, carrots, red bell pepper, green onions, and cilantro.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, honey, ginger, and garlic until well combined.
- Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and toss gently until everything is evenly coated.
- If using, sprinkle the toasted sesame seeds and crispy wonton strips on top before serving.
- Serve immediately or refrigerate for later.
Nutrition Information:
Yield: 4 Serving Size: 1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 396Total Fat: 26gSaturated Fat: 5gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 19gCholesterol: 63mgSodium: 985mgCarbohydrates: 21gFiber: 4gSugar: 8gProtein: 23g
Asianplated.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
Making this Chinese chicken salad is not just about enjoying a meal; it’s about creating a dish full of flavor and color that can be tailored to your preferences. Whether you’re preparing it for a quick lunch or a gathering with friends, this recipe is sure to impress. With its ease of preparation, delightful flavors, and numerous variations, you’ll find yourself returning to this recipe time and again. Happy cooking!
