Chinese Chicken Salad Recipe – Easy Asian-Inspired Healthy Salad Idea
Chinese chicken salad is a vibrant, refreshing dish packed with flavor and crunch! Tender chicken is combined with crisp cabbage, carrots, crunchy noodles, and tossed in a sesame dressing for the perfect balance of savory and fresh. Ideal for light lunches, family dinners, or meal prep when you want a healthy yet satisfying option.
Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Knife + cutting board
- Salad tongs
- Skillet (if cooking chicken)
Ingredients
- 4 cups shredded cabbage (green or Napa)
- 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or diced, rotisserie works well)
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 3 scallions, sliced
- ½ cup toasted almonds or cashews
- 1 cup crunchy noodles or wonton strips
- 2 tbsp sesame seeds
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Dressing:
- 3 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 2 tbsp rice vinegar
- 2 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tbsp grated ginger
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 tbsp honey or sugar
- Optional: 1 tsp chili oil for spice
Instructions
- Prep Vegetables: Shred cabbage, carrots, and slice scallions. Place in a large bowl.
- Prepare Chicken: Shred or dice cooked chicken. Cool before adding to salad.
- Make Dressing: Whisk soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, ginger, garlic, and honey until smooth. Adjust to taste.
- Assemble Salad: Add chicken to vegetables. Pour dressing over and toss gently.
- Add Toppings: Sprinkle crunchy noodles, nuts, sesame seeds, and cilantro.
- Serve: Chill for 15 minutes before serving for maximum flavor.
Notes
- Dress salad just before serving to keep crunch.
- Use tamari for gluten-free and tofu for vegan.
- Add mandarin oranges for sweetness.
- Toast nuts for extra flavor.
- Chill salad before serving for best taste.