Name: Chinese Chicken Salad: Your New Favorite Healthy Meal
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 tbsp light soy sauce; 3 tbsp rice vinegar; 1 tbsp sesame oil; 2 tbsp grapeseed oil; 1 tsp sugar; 1 1/2 tsp fresh ginger; 1 garlic clove; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 4 cups Chinese cabbage; 1 1/2 cups red cabbage; 1 cup carrot; 2 cups chicken; 1/2 cup shallots; 1/2 to 1 cup crunchy noodles; 1 – 2 tsp sesame seeds

Chinese Chicken Salad is a delightful fusion of flavors and textures that has captivated food lovers worldwide. This vibrant dish combines tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and a zesty dressing, making it a perfect option for anyone looking to enjoy a refreshing meal. Not only does it satisfy your taste buds, but the colorful presentation also makes it a feast for the eyes.

Moreover, this dish is incredibly versatile, allowing home cooks to adapt it to suit their preferences. Whether you prefer a classic version or a modern twist with added ingredients, you can easily create a delicious Chinese-inspired salad that offers both nutrition and satisfaction. So, let’s dive in and explore how to make this irresistible salad your new go-to meal option!

Health Benefits of a Chicken Salad:

Chinese chicken salad is not only a flavorful dish but also a nutritious choice that can significantly contribute to your overall well-being. Packed with lean protein from the chicken, this salad supports muscle growth and repair, making it an ideal meal for active individuals. The fresh vegetables—crunchy cabbage, carrots, and bell peppers—are rich in vitamins and minerals, bolstering your immune system and promoting healthy skin.

Moreover, incorporating healthy fats, like those found in sesame oil or nuts, can improve heart health and aid in nutrient absorption. For those looking to add even more variety to their diet, consider our vibrant shaved rainbow carrot and sesame salad, which aligns perfectly with the nutritional profile you’re seeking while enhancing your culinary repertoire.

In sum, enjoying a vibrant Chinese chicken salad not only delights your taste buds but also supports a healthy lifestyle, making it a fantastic addition to your meal plans.

Ingredients for Chinese Chicken Salad:

This Chinese Chicken Salad is a delightful mix of flavors and textures that is simple to prepare. Below are the precise ingredients you’ll need to create this refreshing dish:

Asian Dressing

2 tbsp light soy sauce
3 tbsp rice vinegar (or cider vinegar)
1 tbsp toasted sesame oil
2 tbsp grapeseed oil (or any neutral oil)
1 tsp sugar
1 1/2 tsp fresh ginger, grated
1 garlic clove, minced
1/2 tsp black pepper

Salad Components

4 cups Chinese cabbage, finely shredded
1 1/2 cups red cabbage, finely shredded
1 cup carrot, finely julienned
2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
1/2 cup shallots or scallions, sliced diagonally

Garnish Ideas

1/2 to 1 cup crunchy noodles (like Chang’s)
1 – 2 tsp sesame seeds

For more delicious ideas, check out this Quick Chicken Zucchini Stir-Fry, which highlights how versatile chicken can be in your meals.

Mixing these ingredients creates a vibrant Chinese Chicken Salad that everyone will enjoy! Enjoy your meal and the delightful crunch in every bite.

How to Prepare Chinese Chicken Salad:

To create a delicious Chinese Chicken Salad, start by whisking together the Asian dressing. Combine 2 tablespoons of light soy sauce, 3 tablespoons of rice vinegar, 1 tablespoon of toasted sesame oil, and 2 tablespoons of a neutral-flavored oil such as grapeseed. Add 1 teaspoon of sugar, 1.5 teaspoons of freshly grated ginger, a minced garlic clove, and ½ teaspoon of black pepper to the mix. Stir until the sugar dissolves completely.

Next, in a large bowl, combine 4 cups of finely shredded Chinese cabbage and 1.5 cups of red cabbage. Add 1 cup of julienned carrots, followed by 2 cups of shredded chicken. Incorporate ½ cup of thinly sliced shallots or scallions for a burst of flavor. Pour the Asian dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat.

For a delightful crunch, garnish with ½ to 1 cup of crunchy noodles and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. For more fresh salad inspiration, check out the vibrant shaved rainbow carrot and sesame salad in just 20 minutes here. For a comprehensive recipe with additional tips, visit Recipe Tin Eats. Enjoy this refreshing dish as a light meal or a side!

Variations of Chinese Chicken Salad:

Chinese Chicken Salad is a versatile dish that can be tailored to suit different tastes and dietary needs. For a fantastic twist, consider adding vibrant ingredients like bell peppers and crunchy water chestnuts. You can also incorporate healthy fats by including slices of avocado or a sprinkle of sesame seeds.

If you’re looking for an exciting complement, try pairing it with a Vibrant Shaved Rainbow Carrot Sesame Salad. This adds colorful appeal and an extra crunch to your meal.

Another variation includes using grilled chicken instead of roasted, enhancing the flavor profile with smoky undertones. For a spicier kick, toss in some Sriracha or chili oil.

No matter how you choose to customize your Chinese Chicken Salad, the key is to balance fresh veggies with protein and a delightful dressing for a truly satisfying dish.

Serving Suggestions for Chinese Chicken Salad:

When it comes to serving a delightful Chinese chicken salad, presentation and pairing are key. Start by arranging the colorful ingredients in a large, shallow bowl for an eye-catching display. Consider garnishing with sesame seeds or fresh green onions to add a pop of flavor and visual appeal. For a heartier meal, you can pair your salad with a side of crispy wonton chips for a satisfying crunch.

Furthermore, this salad goes splendidly with a light soy-ginger dressing. Its tangy flavor will elevate the dish, making it an unforgettable experience. If you’re looking to explore different flavors, try complementing your salad with our Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta. This creamy side dish harmonizes with the fresh elements of the salad while adding richness. Enjoy your Chinese-inspired meal by serving it alongside refreshing beverages, such as iced green tea or a crisp white wine, for an uplifting dining experience.

Storage Tips for Chinese Chicken Salad:

To maintain freshness and flavor in your Chinese Chicken Salad, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Consuming it within 2-3 days is best for optimal taste. If you have leftover dressing, keep it separate to prevent sogginess. For a delicious meal variation, check out this quick chicken zucchini stir fry recipe. Enjoy!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

What is the main ingredient in Chinese Chicken Salad?

The main ingredient in Chinese Chicken Salad is typically shredded chicken, which adds protein and a savory flavor. Often accompanied by fresh vegetables like napa cabbage, carrots, and bell peppers, this dish creates a nice balance of textures and nutrients.

Can I customize my Chinese Chicken Salad?

Absolutely! The beauty of a Chinese Chicken Salad lies in its versatility. Feel free to incorporate your favorite veggies or toppings like almonds, crispy noodles, or sesame seeds. For a different twist, consider adding a side of vibrant shaved rainbow carrot salad for an extra crunch!

Is Chinese Chicken Salad healthy?

Yes, this salad can be quite healthy, especially when made with fresh ingredients and a light dressing. You can control calories by using less dressing or opting for a vinegar-based alternative, making it suitable for various dietary preferences.

How do I store leftover Chinese Chicken Salad?

To preserve freshness, store leftover Chinese Chicken Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best consumed within a day or two to maintain the crispness of the vegetables. Be sure to add the dressing just before serving to avoid sogginess.

What dressing is typically used for this salad?

The dressing for Chinese Chicken Salad usually features a tangy blend of soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, and sometimes honey or ginger. This combination enhances the flavors beautifully while providing a delicious drizzle over the salad.

Can I make Chinese Chicken Salad ahead of time?

Certainly! You can prepare the components of Chinese Chicken Salad in advance, such as cooking the chicken and chopping veggies. Just store them separately and combine with dressing right before serving to keep everything fresh and tasty.

Chinese Chicken Salad: Your New Favorite Healthy Meal

Total Time: 50
Yield: 4 servings 1x

Print Recipe

Description

This Chinese Chicken Salad combines vibrant green and red cabbages, crunchy carrots, and tender shredded chicken all tossed in a flavorful Asian dressing, making it a refreshing and healthy dish.

Ingredients

Scale

2 tbsp light soy sauce

3 tbsp rice vinegar

1 tbsp sesame oil

2 tbsp grapeseed oil

1 tsp sugar

1 1/2 tsp fresh ginger

1 garlic clove

1/2 tsp black pepper

4 cups Chinese cabbage

1 1/2 cups red cabbage

1 cup carrot

2 cups chicken

1/2 cup shallots

1/2 to 1 cup crunchy noodles

1 – 2 tsp sesame seeds

Instructions

In a bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, grapeseed oil, sugar, ginger, garlic, and black pepper to make the dressing.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the Chinese cabbage, red cabbage, carrot, chicken, and shallots. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss well to combine.
Top the salad with crunchy noodles and sesame seeds before serving.