Laura Mariano
Chinese Chicken Salad
This vibrant and refreshing Chinese Chicken Salad combines tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and a deliciously tangy dressing, making it a perfect dish for lunch or a light dinner. The crunch from the vegetables and the savory flavors of the chicken create a satisfying meal that’s both healthy and flavorful.
Ingredients:
- For the Salad:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced (rotisserie chicken works well)
- 4 cups mixed greens (like romaine, spinach, or bok choy)
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1 cup red cabbage, thinly sliced
- 1 bell pepper (red or yellow), thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup green onions, sliced
- 1/2 cup cilantro, chopped
- 1 cup chow mein noodles (for crunch)
- Optional: 1/2 cup sliced almonds or sesame seeds for garnish
- For the Dressing:
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon honey or sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon sriracha or chili paste (optional for heat)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Dressing:
- In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, honey, ginger, garlic, and sriracha until well combined. Adjust the sweetness or spiciness according to your preference. Set aside.
- Assemble the Salad:
- In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, shredded chicken, carrots, red cabbage, bell pepper, green onions, and cilantro. Toss gently to combine.
- Add the Dressing:
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly.
- Serve:
- Divide the salad into serving bowls or plates. Top with chow mein noodles and garnish with sliced almonds or sesame seeds if desired. Serve immediately for maximum crunch.
Tips:
- Make-Ahead: You can prepare the salad ingredients ahead of time and store them separately in the fridge. Dress the salad just before serving to keep the greens crisp.
- Protein Variations: Feel free to substitute the chicken with grilled shrimp, tofu, or even leftover steak.
- Add More Veggies: Other vegetables like cucumber, snap peas, or edamame can be added for extra crunch and nutrition.
Enjoy your delicious and colorful Chinese Chicken Salad!
