This Crunchy Chinese Chicken Salad is a colorful mix of fresh veggies, tender chicken, and crunchy toppings! It’s a great way to enjoy a meal that’s both light and satisfying.
Honestly, who doesn’t love a salad that’s more fun than a game of Jenga? I love topping mine with extra almonds for a little extra crunch—yum!
Making this salad is super easy! I just toss everything together, and I’m ready to enjoy a tasty dinner or lunch in no time. Perfect for busy days!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Chicken Breast: Shredded chicken is perfect for this salad. You can use rotisserie chicken for convenience or any leftover cooked chicken. If you’re vegetarian, try using tofu or chickpeas for protein instead!
Napa & Red Cabbage: Napa cabbage offers a soft crunch, while red cabbage adds color. If you can’t find Napa, savoy cabbage is a good substitute. Regular green cabbage can work too, but it’s a bit tougher.
Fresh Herbs: Cilantro brightens the salad. If you’re not a fan, parsley or mint can be great alternatives for their fresh taste.
Crispy Toppings: Fried noodles or wonton strips provide crunch. You can go for roasted chickpeas or sunflower seeds for a healthier twist, or simply use crushed tortilla chips for a different vibe.
Peanuts or Almonds: Both add a lovely crunch. If you need a nut-free option, sunflower seeds are a good choice that still adds texture.
How Do I Make the Dressing Flavors Shine?
The dressing ties all the salad ingredients together. To get the best flavor, whisk the ingredients in a small bowl until it’s smooth, ensuring everything is mixed well for even taste.
- Start with rice vinegar for a tangy base; it’s lighter and less harsh than regular vinegar.
- Soy sauce brings in that umami flavor—use low-sodium if you’re watching your salt intake.
- Sesame oil adds a lovely, nutty aroma. Make sure it’s toasted sesame oil for the best flavor.
- Honey balances the saltiness—maple syrup or agave can substitute for a vegan option.
Feel free to adjust the garlic and ginger to your taste. If you love heat, add more sriracha for an extra kick!
Crunchy Chinese Chicken Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
- 2 cups Napa cabbage, thinly sliced
- 1 cup red cabbage, thinly sliced
- 1 cup carrots, julienned or shredded
- 1 cup celery, chopped
- 1/2 cup green onions, sliced
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro leaves
- 1/2 cup roasted peanuts or sliced almonds
- 1 cup crispy fried noodles or wonton strips
- 1-2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds
For the Dressing:
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 tablespoon honey or sugar
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 1 small garlic clove, minced
- 1 teaspoon sriracha or chili paste (optional for heat)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Crunchy Chinese Chicken Salad takes about 15-20 minutes to prepare. It’s quick to chop and mix your ingredients, and the dressing is done in just a few minutes. It’s perfect for a light lunch or dinner and can be made ahead if needed!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Salad Ingredients:
Start by gathering a large salad bowl. In it, combine the shredded cooked chicken breast, Napa cabbage, red cabbage, julienned carrots, chopped celery, sliced green onions, and fresh cilantro leaves. Mix them gently to ensure that everything is well distributed.
2. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, vegetable oil, honey (or sugar), grated fresh ginger, minced garlic, and sriracha if you like a bit of heat. Make sure all the ingredients are well blended for a flavorful dressing!
3. Combine the Salad and Dressing:
Pour the dressing over the salad mixture in your large bowl. Toss everything together thoroughly so that all the veggies and chicken are evenly coated with the dressing.
4. Add Crunchy Toppings:
Just before you’re ready to serve, sprinkle the salad with roasted peanuts (or almonds), toasted sesame seeds, and crispy fried noodles or wonton strips. This will keep your toppings crunchy and add a delightful texture to your salad.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Now it’s time to dig in! Serve your fresh, vibrant Crunchy Chinese Chicken Salad immediately for the best texture and flavor. Enjoy your meal!
Can I Use Rotisserie Chicken for This Salad?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and adds wonderful flavor to your salad. Just shred it and you’re good to go!
Can I Prep This Salad in Advance?
Yes, you can! You can assemble the salad ingredients (except for the crispy toppings) and store them in the fridge for up to a day ahead. Just add the dressing and toppings right before serving to keep everything fresh and crunchy.
What Can I Use Instead of Rice Vinegar?
If you don’t have rice vinegar, try using apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar as substitutes. They’ll offer a similar tangy flavor, though rice vinegar is milder.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep the crispy toppings separate until you’re ready to eat to maintain their crunchiness!
