Bowl of Chinese style chicken salad with fresh vegetables and chicken slices.

Chinese Style Chicken Salad

ByCasey Monroe

why make this recipe

Chinese Style Chicken Salad is a delicious and refreshing dish. It combines crunchy vegetables and tender chicken, making it perfect for a light meal or side dish. This salad is not only tasty but also packed with nutrients. Plus, it’s easy to prepare, making it a great option for busy days. Whether you want something quick for lunch or a colorful dish for dinner, this salad is sure to please.

how to make Chinese Style Chicken Salad

Ingredients:

  • Cooked Chicken Breast: 2 cups, shredded
  • Green Cabbage: 2 cups, thinly sliced
  • Red Cabbage: 1 cup, thinly sliced
  • Carrots: 1 cup, julienned
  • Green Onions: 4, thinly sliced
  • Cilantro: 1/4 cup, chopped
  • Toasted Almonds: 1/3 cup, slivered
  • Sesame Seeds: 2 tablespoons, toasted
  • Crispy Chow Mein Noodles: 1 cup
  • Soy Sauce: 3 tablespoons
  • Rice Vinegar: 3 tablespoons
  • Sesame Oil: 2 tablespoons
  • Honey: 1 tablespoon
  • Fresh Ginger: 1 tablespoon, grated
  • Garlic: 1 clove, minced
  • Vegetable Oil: 1/4 cup
  • Salt and Pepper: to taste

Directions:

  1. Toast the almonds and sesame seeds in a dry skillet until golden.
  2. In a large bowl, mix together the chicken, green cabbage, red cabbage, carrots, green onions, cilantro, and crispy noodles.
  3. In a jar or a separate bowl, whisk together all the dressing ingredients: soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, honey, ginger, garlic, vegetable oil, salt, and pepper.
  4. Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and toss to coat everything evenly.
  5. Let the salad sit for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
  6. Top the salad with the toasted almonds and sesame seeds.
  7. Serve immediately while fresh and crunchy.

how to serve Chinese Style Chicken Salad

You can serve Chinese Style Chicken Salad in individual bowls or on a large platter. It makes a great side dish for family dinners and gatherings. You can also add grilled chicken on top for a heartier main dish.

how to store Chinese Style Chicken Salad

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The salad can last for up to 2 days. However, the crispy noodles might lose their crunch. It’s best to add them just before serving if you plan to keep leftovers.

tips to make Chinese Style Chicken Salad

  • Use leftover rotisserie chicken to save time.
  • Feel free to add more vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas.
  • Adjust the dressing ingredients to suit your taste. You can add more honey for sweetness or more vinegar for tanginess.

variation (if any)

You can modify this salad by adding different proteins like shrimp or tofu for a vegetarian option. You can also swap out the vegetables based on what you have on hand, such as adding bell peppers or snap peas.

FAQs

Q: Can I make the salad ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the salad ingredients ahead. However, it’s best to add the dressing and crispy noodles just before serving to keep everything fresh and crunchy.

Q: Is there a gluten-free option for this salad?
A: Yes, you can use gluten-free soy sauce and ensure that the crispy noodles are also gluten-free.

Q: Can I use different types of nuts?
A: Absolutely! You can replace almonds with peanuts or cashews if you prefer. Just toast them in the same way for added flavor.