Chinese Chicken Salad is the ultimate recipe that brings together bold, vibrant flavors in a perfect harmony of textures. Tender, grilled chicken is combined with crunchy cabbage, carrots, and crispy wonton strips, all tossed in a savory sesame dressing that adds the perfect balance of salty, sweet, and tangy notes. With every bite, you get a satisfying crunch and a burst of flavor that makes this salad both refreshing and filling. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch or a hearty dinner, this Chinese Chicken Salad is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection!
Why You’ll Love This Chinese Chicken Salad
This Chinese Chicken Salad is a game-changer for busy days. It’s incredibly easy to prepare, taking just 15 minutes from start to finish. The combination of fresh ingredients creates a burst of flavor that will tantalize your taste buds. Plus, it’s versatile enough to suit various dietary preferences. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch or a satisfying dinner, this salad checks all the boxes for taste, nutrition, and convenience!
Ingredients for Chinese Chicken Salad
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making a delicious Chinese Chicken Salad. Here’s what you’ll need:
Shredded cooked chicken: Use about two chicken breasts. This is the protein powerhouse that makes the salad hearty.
Assorted salad greens: A mix of arugula and butter lettuce adds a lovely crunch and freshness.
Grated carrots: These add a sweet crunch and vibrant color to your salad.
Purple cabbage: Finely chopped, it brings a beautiful hue and a satisfying crunch.
Scallions: Chopped scallions provide a mild onion flavor that brightens the dish.
Toasted cashews: These nuts add a delightful crunch and a hint of nuttiness.
Pineapple chunks: Sweet and juicy, they balance the savory elements perfectly.
Fresh mint: Chopped mint leaves give a refreshing twist that elevates the flavor.
Tamari sauce: This gluten-free soy sauce is the base of your dressing, adding umami depth.
Apple cider vinegar: A splash of this tangy vinegar brightens the dressing.
Peanut oil: This oil adds a rich, nutty flavor to the dressing.
Maple syrup: A touch of sweetness to balance the savory and tangy notes.
Freshly grated ginger: This adds a warm, spicy kick that complements the other flavors.
Minced shallots: These provide a subtle sweetness and depth to the dressing.
Crushed red pepper flakes: For those who like a little heat, these flakes add a spicy kick.
For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything available for printing. Feel free to mix and match ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand!
How to Make Chinese Chicken Salad
Step 1: Prepare the Salad Base
Start by grabbing a large mixing bowl. Add the shredded chicken, which is the heart of this Chinese Chicken Salad. Next, toss in the assorted salad greens, grated carrots, and finely chopped purple cabbage. Don’t forget the chopped scallions for that extra zing! Finally, sprinkle in the toasted cashews, pineapple chunks, and fresh mint. This colorful mix is not just beautiful; it’s packed with nutrients and flavor!
Step 2: Make the Dressing
In a separate small bowl, it’s time to whip up the dressing. Combine the tamari sauce, apple cider vinegar, and peanut oil. Then, add the maple syrup for a touch of sweetness. Grate in some fresh ginger and toss in the minced shallots. For a little heat, sprinkle in the crushed red pepper flakes. Whisk everything together until it’s smooth and well blended. This dressing is the secret to elevating your salad!
Step 3: Combine and Toss
Now, it’s time to bring it all together! Drizzle the dressing over your vibrant salad mixture. Gently toss everything together until all the ingredients are beautifully coated. This step is crucial, as it ensures every bite is bursting with flavor. You’ll love how the colors and textures come together in this delightful dish!
Step 4: Chill and Serve
If you have a little patience, let the salad chill in the fridge for about 20 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. However, if you’re in a hurry, you can serve it right away. Either way, you’re in for a treat!
Tips for Success
Use leftover rotisserie chicken for a quick shortcut.
Chop your veggies ahead of time to save on prep.
For extra crunch, add crispy fried onions just before serving.
Adjust the dressing ingredients to suit your taste; add more ginger for spice!
Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to two days.
Equipment Needed
Large mixing bowl: Essential for combining your salad ingredients. A big pot works too!
Small mixing bowl: Perfect for whisking the dressing. A mason jar can double as a shaker!
Whisk: For blending the dressing smoothly. A fork can do the trick in a pinch!
Cutting board and knife: Necessary for chopping veggies. A sturdy plate can work for quick cuts!
Variations
Vegan Option: Swap the shredded chicken for chickpeas or tofu for a plant-based protein boost.
Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or a dash of sriracha to the dressing for an extra heat level.
Fruit Twist: Incorporate diced mango or mandarin oranges for a sweet and tropical flavor.
Nut-Free: Omit the cashews and replace them with sunflower seeds for a crunchy texture without the nuts.
Low-Carb Version: Use shredded cabbage instead of salad greens for a lighter, low-carb alternative.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your Chinese Chicken Salad with a light, refreshing cucumber salad for a delightful meal.
Serve it alongside crispy spring rolls for a complete Asian-inspired feast.
For drinks, consider a chilled green tea or a fruity sparkling water.
Presentation tip: Serve in a large, colorful bowl to showcase the vibrant ingredients!
Absolutely! You can prepare the salad base and dressing separately. Just combine them right before serving to keep everything fresh and crisp. This makes it a perfect option for meal prep!
Is this Chinese Chicken Salad gluten-free?
Yes, it is! By using tamari sauce instead of regular soy sauce, you ensure that this salad is gluten-free. It’s a great choice for those with gluten sensitivities.
What can I substitute for chicken in this recipe?
If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, chickpeas or tofu work wonderfully as substitutes. They provide protein while keeping the salad hearty and satisfying.
How long will leftovers last?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. Just keep in mind that the salad may lose some crunch over time.
Can I add more vegetables to my Chinese Chicken Salad?
Definitely! Feel free to get creative. Bell peppers, snap peas, or even edamame can add extra flavor and nutrition. The more, the merrier!
Final Thoughts
Creating this Chinese Chicken Salad is more than just preparing a meal; it’s about bringing joy to your table. The vibrant colors and fresh flavors make it a feast for the senses, while the ease of preparation fits perfectly into our busy lives. Each bite is a delightful combination of textures and tastes, reminding me of sunny days and family gatherings. Whether you’re serving it for a quick lunch or a special dinner, this salad is sure to impress. I hope it becomes a cherished recipe in your home, just as it has in mine!
A refreshing and flavorful Asian-inspired chicken salad that combines shredded chicken with a variety of fresh vegetables and a delicious homemade dressing.
4 cups assorted salad greens (like arugula and butter lettuce)
1 cup grated carrots
1 cup purple cabbage, finely chopped
1/2 cup scallions, chopped
1/2 cup toasted cashews
1/2 cup pineapple chunks, drained
1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped
1/4 cup tamari sauce (for dressing)
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar (for dressing)
2 tablespoons peanut oil (for dressing)
1 tablespoon maple syrup (for dressing)
1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger (for dressing)
1 teaspoon minced shallots (for dressing)
1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (for dressing)
Instructions
In a large mixing bowl, add the shredded chicken, assorted salad greens, grated carrots, purple cabbage, scallions, toasted cashews, pineapple chunks, and fresh mint.
In a small mixing bowl, combine the tamari sauce, apple cider vinegar, peanut oil, maple syrup, grated ginger, minced shallots, and crushed red pepper flakes. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
Drizzle the dressing over the salad mixture and gently toss everything together until all ingredients are coated.
You can serve the salad right away or let it sit in the fridge for about 20 minutes to enhance the flavors.
Notes
For an extra layer of flavor, add some crispy fried onions on top before serving.
To create a vegan version, swap the chicken for chickpeas and use a plant-based dressing.
