Description
This refreshing Chinese Chicken Salad combines tender shredded chicken with a crisp mix of Napa cabbage, romaine lettuce, and colorful vegetables, all tossed in a tangy sesame-ginger dressing. Enhanced with toasted almonds and crunchy wonton strips, this Asian-American salad offers a perfect balance of textures and flavors, making it ideal for a light lunch or easy meal prep.
Ingredients
Scale
Salad
- 3 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
- 4 cups Napa cabbage, thinly sliced
- 2 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- ½ cup red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- ½ cup green onions, sliced
- ½ cup sliced almonds, toasted
- 1 cup crispy wonton strips or chow mein noodles
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional)
Dressing
- ¼ cup rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons vegetable or canola oil
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Salad Base: In a large bowl, combine the thinly sliced Napa cabbage, chopped romaine lettuce, shredded carrots, thinly sliced red bell pepper, sliced green onions, toasted sliced almonds, and shredded cooked chicken breast. Mix gently to distribute ingredients evenly.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, honey or maple syrup, vegetable or canola oil, grated fresh ginger, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt and pepper until the dressing is well combined and emulsified.
- Toss the Salad: Pour the prepared dressing over the salad mixture and toss thoroughly to ensure every ingredient is evenly coated with the flavorful dressing.
- Add Crunchy Toppings: Just before serving, sprinkle the crispy wonton strips or chow mein noodles atop the salad for added texture, and sprinkle sesame seeds over the top if using.
- Serve: Serve the salad chilled or at room temperature to enjoy its crisp and refreshing flavors.
Notes
- For meal prep, keep the dressing and crispy toppings separate until ready to serve to maintain crunchiness.
- Using rotisserie chicken is a convenient time-saver.
- Optional additions like mandarin oranges or edamame can add sweetness and extra texture.
- This salad pairs well with a light Asian-inspired meal or as a satisfying standalone dish.
