Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Mandarin Chicken Salad is a refreshing, flavorful mix of tender chicken, juicy mandarin oranges, and crunchy toppings like almonds and crispy noodles, all tossed in a tangy-sweet Asian-inspired dressing. It’s the perfect blend of savory, sweet, and crunchy textures, making it a crowd-pleasing option for lunches, picnics, or light dinners.

ingredients

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

cooked chicken breast (shredded or cubed)mandarin orange segments (canned or fresh)romaine lettuce (chopped)shredded carrotsgreen onions (sliced)slivered almondscrispy chow mein noodles

For the dressing:

rice vinegarsoy saucehoneyvegetable oiltoasted sesame oilgarlic (minced)fresh ginger (grated)salt and pepper

directions

In a large bowl, combine the chopped romaine lettuce, shredded carrots, and green onions.

Add the cooked chicken and mandarin orange segments.

In a separate small bowl, whisk together rice vinegar, soy sauce, honey, vegetable oil, toasted sesame oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, salt, and pepper until emulsified.

Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss everything together gently to combine.

Top with slivered almonds and crispy chow mein noodles just before serving to maintain their crunch.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4.Preparation time: 15 minutesTotal time: 15 minutes

Variations

Use grilled or rotisserie chicken for added flavor.

Swap romaine for baby spinach or a spring mix.

Add avocado slices or cucumber for extra freshness.

Include red bell pepper or snap peas for more crunch.

Use a store-bought sesame dressing for convenience.

storage/reheating

Store undressed salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.Keep the dressing, crispy noodles, and almonds separate until ready to serve to preserve texture.Dressed salad is best consumed immediately.

FAQs

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, just store components separately and assemble before serving.

Are fresh mandarins better than canned?

Fresh mandarins offer a firmer texture, but canned work perfectly and save time.

What protein can I use instead of chicken?

Grilled shrimp or tofu are great alternatives.

Can I make this salad vegetarian?

Absolutely, just omit the chicken or use a plant-based protein.

Is this salad gluten-free?

It can be—just use gluten-free soy sauce and omit chow mein noodles or use a GF alternative.

How long will the dressing last?

The dressing can be refrigerated for up to 5 days in a sealed container.

Can I use other nuts?

Yes, try cashews or peanuts for a different twist.

Is this a good salad for meal prep?

Yes, as long as toppings and dressing are kept separate until serving.

Does this salad work as a main course?

Definitely—it’s hearty enough to be a full meal.

Can I add cheese?

Not traditional, but crumbled feta or goat cheese can add a tangy touch.

Conclusion

Mandarin Chicken Salad is a bright, delicious option for those who love crisp, vibrant meals packed with flavor. With its balance of protein, fruit, and crunch, it’s a satisfying dish that’s quick to assemble and endlessly adaptable. Whether you’re prepping lunch or serving a light dinner, this salad is sure to impress.