If you’re craving a dish that’s vibrant, crunchy, and bursting with flavor, look no further than this delightful Chinese Chicken Salad Recipe. It’s a perfect blend of tender shredded chicken, crisp Napa and red cabbage, sweet bell pepper, and a tangy, savory dressing that brings everything together in a refreshing harmony. Whether you’re after a quick lunch or a light dinner, this salad delivers a satisfying crunch and a zesty punch that’s hard to resist.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these simple but essential ingredients is the first step toward creating an unforgettable salad. Each one plays a crucial role, from the bright and crisp vegetables to the flavorful dressing that ties the whole dish together.
- Cooked shredded chicken breast (2 cups): Provides tender protein that’s perfect for soaking up the dressing.
- Napa cabbage, thinly sliced (4 cups): Adds a mild, crunchy base full of freshness and bright color.
- Red cabbage, thinly sliced (1 cup): Gives a pop of vibrant purple and an earthy crunch to the salad.
- Shredded carrots (1 cup): Infuses sweetness and an extra layer of crisp texture.
- Red bell pepper, thinly sliced (1): Delivers a juicy bite with a subtle sweetness and beautiful color.
- Green onions, sliced (1/2 cup): Adds a mild, oniony zest that lifts the flavors.
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (1/4 cup): Offers a bright, herbal note that makes every bite zing.
- Sliced almonds, toasted (1/3 cup): Brings a nutty crunch that complements the tender chicken perfectly.
- Crispy wonton strips (1/2 cup, optional): Adds an irresistible crunch and that classic Chinese salad touch.
- Soy sauce or tamari (1/4 cup): Forms the salty, umami backbone of the dressing.
- Rice vinegar (2 tablespoons): Injects a tangy brightness that balances richness.
- Sesame oil (1 tablespoon): Infuses an authentic nutty aroma and flavor.
- Honey or maple syrup (1 tablespoon): Sweetens the dressing just enough to round out the tang and spice.
- Fresh ginger, grated (1 teaspoon): Provides a hint of spicy warmth.
- Garlic, minced (1 clove): Enhances the savory depth of the dressing.
- Sriracha or chili paste (1 teaspoon, optional): For those who like a little kick in their salad.
How to Make Chinese Chicken Salad Recipe
Step 1: Combine the Crunchy Base
Start by tossing together the shredded chicken, Napa cabbage, red cabbage, shredded carrots, red bell pepper, green onions, cilantro, and toasted almonds in a large bowl. This mix of colors and textures sets the foundation for the salad and guarantees every bite is bursting with variety.
Step 2: Add the Wonton Strips
If you’re using crispy wonton strips, sprinkle them on top of the salad now. They bring a delightful crunch that’s classic to Chinese chicken salads and add extra texture that’ll keep your taste buds dancing.
Step 3: Whisk the Dressing
In a separate small bowl, whisk together soy sauce (or tamari), rice vinegar, sesame oil, honey, grated ginger, minced garlic, and sriracha if you want an extra layer of heat. This flavorful dressing elevates the salad with a wonderful balance of sweet, salty, spicy, and tangy notes.
Step 4: Dress and Toss
Pour your freshly made dressing over the salad just before serving, and toss everything thoroughly to ensure every ingredient is beautifully coated. This step helps the vibrant flavors mingle and shine through.
Step 5: Ready to Serve
Your Chinese Chicken Salad Recipe is ready! Serve immediately for the most delightful crunch and freshness.
How to Serve Chinese Chicken Salad Recipe
Garnishes
Consider topping your salad with a sprinkle of extra toasted almonds or a handful of fresh cilantro leaves to add an extra pop of texture and color. A few lime wedges on the side can also provide a fresh citrus burst that pairs beautifully with the flavors in the salad.
Side Dishes
This salad shines as a standalone dish perfect for a light meal, but it also pairs wonderfully with steamed jasmine rice, vegetable spring rolls, or a bowl of hot miso soup if you want to build a more substantial Asian-inspired dinner.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this salad in hollowed-out lettuce cups or crispy wonton cups for a party-friendly appetizer that showcases the Chinese Chicken Salad Recipe in a fresh, fun way. Alternatively, plate it on a large platter with the dressing drizzled artistically for a stunning, shareable presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To maintain the salad’s crispness, it’s best to store the dressing separately and toss it with the salad just before enjoying again.
Freezing
Freezing this salad is not recommended, as the fresh vegetables and dressing will lose their texture and flavor once thawed. It’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated for short-term storage.
Reheating
This salad is designed to be served cold or at room temperature. Reheating will wilt the vegetables and change the texture, so simply enjoy it straight from the fridge, tossing again to redistribute the dressing if needed.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken for this salad?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken works perfectly and can save you time while adding delicious, tender meat to your salad.
What can I substitute for almonds if I have a nut allergy?
Try toasted sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for that crunchy element without the nuts. They provide a similar texture and a mild, nutty flavor.
Is this salad gluten-free?
The salad can easily be gluten-free by using tamari instead of regular soy sauce and skipping the crispy wonton strips or finding a gluten-free alternative.
Can I make the dressing ahead of time?
Yes! The dressing can be prepared up to 2 days in advance and stored in the fridge. Just give it a good whisk before using.
How spicy is this salad?
The spice level can be controlled by adjusting or omitting the sriracha or chili paste. It’s mild without the spice but can have a nice kick if you include it.
Final Thoughts
This Chinese Chicken Salad Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that’s as easy to make as it is delightful to eat. Its combination of crunchy veggies, savory chicken, and punchy dressing makes it a perfect go-to for any occasion. I hope you give this vibrant salad a try and let it brighten up your next meal!
Print
Chinese Chicken Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Chinese
Description
A refreshing and vibrant Chinese Chicken Salad packed with crisp Napa and red cabbage, shredded chicken, fresh vegetables, and a zesty sesame-soy dressing. This easy-to-make salad combines crunchy almonds and optional crispy wonton strips for texture, making it a perfect light meal or side dish in just 15 minutes.
Ingredients
Salad
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken breast
- 4 cups Napa cabbage, thinly sliced
- 1 cup red cabbage, thinly sliced
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup green onions, sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/3 cup sliced almonds, toasted
- 1/2 cup crispy wonton strips (optional)
Dressing
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon honey (or maple syrup for vegan)
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon sriracha or chili paste (optional)
Instructions
- Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together the shredded chicken, Napa cabbage, red cabbage, shredded carrots, red bell pepper, green onions, cilantro, and toasted sliced almonds to create the base of the salad.
- Add Wonton Strips: If desired, sprinkle crispy wonton strips over the top of the salad for added crunch and texture.
- Prepare Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce (or tamari), rice vinegar, sesame oil, honey, grated ginger, minced garlic, and sriracha or chili paste if using, until well combined and smooth.
- Toss Salad with Dressing: Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients just before serving. Toss thoroughly to evenly coat all the vegetables and chicken with the flavorful dressing.
- Serve: Serve the salad immediately to preserve the crisp freshness and enjoy a quick, healthy meal.
Notes
- Use tamari instead of soy sauce to make this salad gluten-free.
- Maple syrup is a great vegan alternative to honey for the dressing.
- Adding crispy wonton strips is optional but recommended for extra crunch.
- Feel free to add other crunchy vegetables like sliced cucumber or snap peas.
- The salad is best served fresh but can be prepared an hour ahead if kept refrigerated.
