This Asian Chicken Salad is packed with crisp vegetables, tender chicken, and a zesty sesame ginger dressing, this salad is a refreshing and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
Boo-hoo! Who cares about that?
Well, hear me out. It does not matter if you are looking for a light and healthy lunch option or a crowd-pleasing dish to serve at your next gathering, this Asian Chicken Salad is sure to impress.
Enough chit-chat, let’s dive into the recipe and learn how to create this delicious salad in just a few simple steps.
Why I’m Sharing This Asian Chicken Salad Recipe
I’m excited to share this recipe because it’s a perfect example of how simple ingredients can be transformed into a delicious and satisfying dish with just a few delicious additions.
There!
To be honest, it matters not if you a fan of Asian cuisine or new to the world of exotic flavors, this salad is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.
With its versatile ingredients and customizable dressing, you can easily tailor it to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs.
What Makes this Asian Chicken Salad Special?
It’s the perfect balance of textures and flavors. The crisp vegetables provide a refreshing crunch, while the tender chicken adds a satisfying protein boost.
The zesty sesame ginger dressing ties everything together beautifully, adding a burst of savory-sweet flavor that elevates the dish to new heights.
Ingredients Needed
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
- 4 cups mixed salad greens
- 1 cup shredded red cabbage
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1/2 cup sliced cucumber
- 1/2 cup sliced red bell pepper
- 1/4 cup sliced green onions
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds or peanuts
- 1/4 cup crispy chow mein noodles or fried wonton strips
Alternative Ingredients/Variations
Here are some ingredients you can use in place of the ones above:
| Ingredient | Alternative |
| Mixed salad greens | Baby spinach, arugula |
| Red cabbage | Napa cabbage, green cabbage |
| Carrots | Daikon radish, jicama |
| Cucumber | Bell pepper, snap peas |
| Red bell pepper | Yellow bell pepper, orange bell pepper |
| Green onions | Chives, shallots |
| Cilantro | Thai basil, mint |
| Almonds or peanuts | Cashews, sesame seeds |
| Crispy chow mein noodles or fried wonton strips | Rice noodles, sesame sticks |
Step-By-Step Guide
Step 1: Prepare the Salad Ingredients
In a large salad bowl, combine the shredded chicken, mixed salad greens, shredded red cabbage, shredded carrots, sliced cucumber, sliced red bell pepper, sliced green onions, and chopped cilantro.
Step 2: Add the Crunchy Toppings
Sprinkle the sliced almonds or peanuts and crispy chow mein noodles or fried wonton strips over the top of the salad for added crunch and texture.
Step 3: Make the Sesame Ginger Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the sesame oil, rice vinegar, soy sauce, honey, grated ginger, minced garlic, and a pinch of red pepper flakes until well combined.
Step 4: Dress the Salad
Drizzle the sesame ginger dressing over the salad, then toss gently to coat everything evenly.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Divide the salad evenly among serving plates or bowls, then serve immediately and enjoy the refreshing flavors of this Asian dish.
Expert Tips
- For added protein, you can add cooked shrimp or tofu to the salad.
- Customize the salad with your favorite vegetables and herbs for added flavor and variety.
- Make the dressing ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to one week. Just give it a good shake before using to re-emulsify the ingredients.
Utensils/What You Need
- Large salad bowl
- Small bowl for dressing
- Whisk
- Serving plates or bowls
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
While it’s best to dress the salad just before serving to prevent the greens from wilting, you can prepare the individual components ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator. Simply assemble the salad and dress it with the sesame ginger dressing just before serving.
Can I use a different type of protein?
Yes, feel free to substitute the shredded chicken with cooked shrimp, tofu, or even grilled steak for a delicious variation.
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Also, check out our other recipes that are sure to make you go cray-cray with joy 😹.
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