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Crunchy Chinese Chicken Salad

Crunchy Chinese Chicken Salad


  • Author: OliviaBennett
  • Total Time: 20 minutes

Description

This isn’t just a salad—it’s a flavor-packed experience! Tender shredded chicken, colorful veggies, and a tangy-sweet sesame dressing come together for a dish that’s crunchy, vibrant, and totally crave-worthy. Perfect for weeknights, potlucks, or meal prep, it’s the kind of recipe that turns skeptics into salad lovers. One bite and you’ll see why it’s legendary.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 cups cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie works great)

  • 4 cups shredded napa or green cabbage (or a mix)

  • 1 cup shredded carrots

  • 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced

  • 2 green onions, sliced

  • ½ cup cilantro, chopped (or parsley/mint as sub)

  • ½ cup toasted sliced almonds (or peanuts/cashews)

  • 1 cup crispy wonton strips or chow mein noodles

  • 1 tbsp sesame seeds (optional)

Dressing:

  • ¼ cup rice vinegar

  • 2 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari/coconut aminos)

  • 1 tbsp toasted sesame oil

  • 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup

  • 2 tbsp olive oil

  • 1 tsp grated fresh ginger

  • 1 clove garlic, minced


Instructions

  1. Toast nuts: In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast almonds until golden & fragrant (3–5 mins). Set aside.

  2. Make dressing: Whisk or shake all dressing ingredients in a jar until smooth. Adjust to taste.

  3. Build salad: In a large bowl, combine chicken, cabbage, carrots, bell pepper, onions, and cilantro.

  4. Toss: Pour most of the dressing over and toss well. Add more if needed.

  5. Finish: Just before serving, top with toasted almonds, crispy wontons, and sesame seeds.

Notes

  • Spicy Kick: Add sriracha to the dressing.

  • Mandarin Twist: Toss in orange segments.

  • Vegan: Use tofu or edamame instead of chicken.

  • Apple & Cashew Crunch: Add diced apple + swap almonds for cashews.

  • Prep Time: 20 mins

Nutrition

  • Calories: 330 cal Per Serving
  • Fat: 18g
  • Carbohydrates: 18g
  • Protein: 25g