Description
A vibrant and crunchy Chinese Chicken Salad featuring shredded chicken breast, Napa and red cabbage, carrots, bell pepper, and a tangy sesame-ginger dressing. Topped with crunchy chow mein noodles, toasted almonds, and sesame seeds for extra texture and flavor. Perfect for a quick, healthy meal or meal prep.
Ingredients
Scale
Salad Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked, shredded chicken breast
- 4 cups shredded Napa cabbage
- 1 cup shredded red cabbage
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup sliced green onions
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- 1/2 cup crunchy chow mein noodles or wonton strips
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds, toasted
- 2 tablespoons sesame seeds (optional)
Dressing Ingredients
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/3 cup neutral oil (avocado or vegetable oil)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Combine salad ingredients. In a large mixing bowl, add the shredded chicken, Napa cabbage, red cabbage, carrots, bell pepper, green onions, and cilantro. Mix gently to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Prepare the dressing. In a separate bowl, whisk together rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, honey, grated fresh ginger, minced garlic, and neutral oil until the mixture is smooth and well emulsified. Season the dressing with salt and pepper to taste.
- Toss salad with dressing. Pour the prepared dressing over the salad mixture. Toss everything thoroughly to ensure all ingredients are coated evenly with the dressing.
- Add crunchy toppings. Just before serving, sprinkle the crunchy chow mein noodles or wonton strips, toasted almonds, and sesame seeds (if using) over the salad for added texture and flavor.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature. This salad is best enjoyed immediately after topping but can be served chilled or at room temperature as preferred.
Notes
- Keep the dressing and crunchy toppings separate until ready to serve to maintain the salad’s crisp texture.
- Use rotisserie chicken to save preparation time without sacrificing flavor.
- Enhance the salad with additional ingredients like mandarin oranges or edamame for extra flavor and vibrant color.
- To make this salad gluten-free, use tamari instead of soy sauce and ensure the crunchy noodles or wonton strips are gluten-free.
