Asian Chicken Salad With Ginger Dressing

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Asian Chicken Salad with Ginger Dressing is a vibrant and refreshing dish packed with crisp vegetables, tender chicken, and a zesty homemade dressing. Perfect for a light lunch or dinner, this salad brings a beautiful balance of savory, sweet, and tangy flavors, offering a satisfying yet healthy meal that’s bursting with texture and taste.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

shredded cooked chickenbreastred cabbagegreen cabbagenapacarrotscucumbersred bell peppergreen onionscilantrotoasted almondscrispy wonton strips

For the Ginger Dressing:
fresh gingercloves garlicsoy saucesesame oilsugarolive oilrice vinegarhoneylime juicered pepper flakes (optional)

directions

Prepare the dressing by whisking together grated ginger, minced garlic, soy sauce, sesame oil, sugar, olive oil, rice vinegar, honey, lime juice, and red pepper flakes until smooth and well combined.

In a large salad bowl, combine the shredded chicken, red cabbage, green cabbage, napa cabbage, carrots, cucumbers, red bell pepper, green onions, and cilantro.

Drizzle the ginger dressing over the salad and toss thoroughly to coat everything evenly.

Top with toasted almonds and crispy wonton strips right before serving for added crunch.

Serve immediately and enjoy!

Servings and timing

This recipe serves about 4-6 people.Preparation time: 20 minutesTotal time: 20 minutes

Variations

Substitute grilled shrimp or tofu for the chicken to make it pescatarian or vegetarian.

Add mandarin oranges for a sweet, fruity touch.

Use a spicy peanut dressing instead of ginger for a different flavor profile.

Swap the napa cabbage with kale or spinach for a green twist.

storage/reheating

Store the undressed salad and dressing separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.Toss fresh before serving to maintain the crispness.No reheating needed as this is best enjoyed cold.

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Yes, rotisserie chicken is a great time-saving option.

Is there a substitute for sesame oil?

You can use olive oil, but sesame oil gives the dressing its signature flavor.

Can I make the dressing ahead of time?

Absolutely, the dressing can be made up to 5 days in advance and stored in the fridge.

What other nuts can I use?

Cashews or peanuts make great alternatives to almonds.

Is this salad gluten-free?

Use tamari instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free version.

Can I add noodles to this salad?

Yes, cooked soba or rice noodles can be a delicious addition.

Is fresh ginger necessary?

Fresh ginger gives the best flavor, but ground ginger can be used in a pinch.

How spicy is the dressing?

It’s mildly spicy; adjust red pepper flakes to your taste.

Can I freeze this salad?

Freezing is not recommended as the vegetables will lose their crispness.

What vegetables work best?

Stick to crunchy vegetables like cabbage, carrots, and bell peppers for the best texture.

Conclusion

Asian Chicken Salad with Ginger Dressing is a refreshing, colorful, and nutrient-packed meal that’s as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate. With its crisp veggies, savory chicken, and zingy dressing, it’s the perfect quick dish for any day of the week. Try it once, and you’ll keep coming back to this delicious and healthy favorite!