When it comes to vibrant flavors and satisfying crunch, this Chinese Chicken Salad delivers on every level. With shredded chicken breast mingling alongside a colorful medley of greens, shredded carrots, and crisp cucumbers, every bite feels like a celebration of textures. The savory-sweet sesame ginger dressing wraps the ingredients in a luscious coating that balances honeyed warmth with tangy rice vinegar and a subtle hint of soy. I still remember the first time I tossed together this salad for a weekend brunch—friends couldn’t stop raving about the zingy freshness and the irresistible crunch of chow mein noodles. It’s the kind of dish that makes you pause mid-bite and smile, knowing you’re enjoying something both wholesome and utterly delicious.
Over the years, I’ve played around with add-ins—sometimes slipping in avocado slices for a creamy contrast, other times topping the bowl with toasted almonds for extra nuttiness. No matter the tweaks, the heart of this recipe remains the same: simple ingredients coming together in under 20 minutes of prep and just 15 minutes of cooking, making it a perfect beginner-friendly lunch or light dinner. At roughly 450 calories per serving, it’s a guilt-free treat that still feels indulgent, thanks to that bold sesame oil aroma and the crunchy pops of sesame seeds. Whether I’m meal-prepping for the week or throwing together a quick family dinner, this salad has become my go-to for when I crave something easy, colorful, and packed with flavors that dance on the palate.
KEY INGREDIENTS IN CHINESE CHICKEN SALAD
Before we roll up our sleeves and dive into making this crunchy Asian salad masterpiece, let’s highlight the star players. Each component brings its own personality—whether it’s a burst of freshness, a nutty whisper, or a hint of spice—so you’ll know exactly why we’ve chosen these ingredients and how they contribute to the overall harmony of the dish.
- Cooked chicken breast
Tender, shredded chicken offers lean protein and soaks up every drop of dressing, ensuring each forkful is juicy and flavorful.
- Mixed salad greens
A crisp blend of romaine, napa cabbage, and spinach creates a vibrant, crunchy base that contrasts beautifully with softer toppings.
- Shredded carrots
Bright orange ribbons lend natural sweetness, color contrast, and an extra layer of satisfying crunch.
- Sliced cucumber
Cool, hydrating cucumber slices introduce a refreshing note that balances the boldness of the sesame ginger dressing.
- Green onions
Delicate slices of green onion provide a mild oniony bite, adding depth without overpowering the other flavors.
- Sliced almonds
Lightly toasted almonds bring a rich, nutty flavor and extra texture, elevating the salad’s crunch factor.
- Sesame seeds
Tiny yet powerful, sesame seeds add a toasty finish and a visual sprinkle of Scandinavian charm to every mouthful.
- Fresh cilantro (optional)
This herb imparts a bright, citrusy aroma that can lift the salad from great to mind-blowingly fresh.
- Crispy chow mein noodles or fried wonton strips (optional)
For those who crave an extra crunch, these irresistible toppings crank the texture up to eleven.
For the dressing, these ingredients work in unison to create that signature sesame ginger bite:
- Soy sauce
A salty backbone that adds umami depth and enhances other flavors.
- Rice vinegar
Delivers a tangy kick that cuts through the richness and keeps the dressing light.
- Honey or sugar
Balances acidity with gentle sweetness, creating a well-rounded profile.
- Sesame oil
Infuses an authentic, nutty aroma that’s unmistakably Asian-inspired.
- Vegetable oil
Provides a neutral base that helps carry the dressing’s intense flavors.
- Grated fresh ginger
Adds warmth and a peppery zing that wakes up your taste buds.
- Minced garlic
Contributes savory depth and a bit of pungent punch.
- Dijon mustard (optional)
Acts as a natural emulsifier and introduces a subtle tanginess.
- Toasted sesame oil (optional)
For an extra boost of sesame flavor without additional heat.
- Salt and pepper
Simple seasoning to taste, ensuring every ingredient shines.
HOW TO MAKE CHINESE CHICKEN SALAD
Let’s walk through the process of transforming these fresh ingredients into your new favorite crunchy salad. You’ll see how easy it is to bring together the elements of color, texture, and flavor in just a few simple steps.
1. In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, mixed salad greens, shredded carrots, sliced cucumber, and chopped green onions. Use tongs or clean hands to toss gently, ensuring each leafy piece glides freely among the other ingredients for even distribution.
2. In a separate small bowl, prepare the dressing by whisking together soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, sesame oil, vegetable oil, grated ginger, minced garlic, and Dijon mustard if you’re using it. Take a moment to taste and adjust the sweetness with more honey or the saltiness with additional soy sauce until it hits that perfect balance.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss until every leaf and noodle ribbon is evenly coated in the glossy, savory-sweet mixture.
4. Sprinkle in the sesame seeds, sliced almonds, and crispy chow mein noodles or fried wonton strips (if you’re adding crunch). Give it another gentle toss to distribute these tasty toppings throughout the salad.
5. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro for a burst of herbal brightness, swirling its green specks across the top.
6. Serve immediately so you can enjoy the contrast of crisp greens, crunchy noodles, and juicy chicken at their freshest.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR CHINESE CHICKEN SALAD
Once you’ve mastered this salad, it’s fun to explore creative ways to present it. Whether you’re hosting a casual lunch or serving it alongside an Asian-inspired dinner, these ideas will make your dish shine on the table.
- Pair with grilled teriyaki salmon
The caramelized edges of teriyaki salmon are a dream next to the sesame ginger salad, creating a harmonious duo of sweet, savory, and crunchy textures.
- Build a bento-style lunch
Portion your Chinese chicken salad into individual containers with steamed rice, edamame, and pickled vegetables for an easy, balanced meal on the go.
- Serve in buttery lettuce cups
Spoon the salad into crisp lettuce leaves for portable, hands-on bites at parties—perfect for mingling without needing utensils.
- Add a side of miso soup
A warm, umami-rich miso soup complements the cool salad, balancing comfort and refreshment in one cohesive dining experience.
HOW TO STORE CHINESE CHICKEN SALAD
Proper storage is key to preserving the delightful texture and freshness of this salad. If you plan to enjoy leftovers or meal-prep for the week, keep these tips in mind to maintain that signature crunch and vibrant flavor.
- Store dressing separately
Transfer the sesame ginger dressing into an airtight container and refrigerate. This prevents the salad from becoming soggy and keeps the greens crisp.
- Use airtight containers for the salad
Place the salad mixture (without dressing or crunchy toppings) in a shallow, lidded container. This allows air to circulate less, preserving the freshness of the greens and chicken.
- Keep crunchy toppings dry
Store sliced almonds and chow mein noodles in a separate, small airtight bag or container. Add them just before serving to ensure maximum crunch.
- Refrigerate for up to two days
Consume the stored components within 48 hours for optimal texture and taste. Beyond that, greens may wilt and the chicken can lose its juiciness.
CONCLUSION
Reflecting on this recipe, it’s amazing how simple ingredients like shredded chicken, mixed greens, and a handful of pantry staples can transform into a standout Asian salad. From the first bright crunch of cabbage to the last lingering hint of sesame oil, every element plays its part in creating a lunch or dinner that’s both refreshing and deeply satisfying. Whether you’re a kitchen novice or a seasoned home cook, this beginner-friendly dish offers immense rewards: vibrant colors, aromatic ginger, and that irresistible honeyed sweetness that keeps you coming back for more. Feel free to print this article or bookmark it for later—you’ll find the FAQ below to answer any lingering questions as you cook.
I hope this guide has inspired you to roll up your sleeves, have fun, and savor the process of making your own Chinese chicken salad. If you give this recipe a try, I’d love to hear how it turned out! Drop a comment, ask any questions, or share your unique twists—you might inspire someone else to venture into the world of sesame ginger dressings and crunchy noodle bliss. Your feedback and stories make this community richer, so let’s keep the conversation going. Happy cooking!
Chinese Chicken Salad
Description
Colorful greens, shredded chicken, and crisp chow mein noodles come together in a zesty soy-ginger dressing, balanced with honey sweetness and sesame aroma for a refreshing, flavorful meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
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In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, mixed salad greens, shredded carrots, sliced cucumber, and chopped green onions. Toss gently to combine.
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In a separate small bowl, prepare the dressing by whisking together soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, sesame oil, vegetable oil, grated ginger, minced garlic, and Dijon mustard if using. Adjust the sweetness and saltiness by adding more honey or soy sauce to taste.
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Pour the dressing over the salad and toss until everything is evenly coated.
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Add the sesame seeds, sliced almonds, and crispy chow mein noodles or fried wonton strips (if using) for crunch. Toss again to distribute.
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Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro if desired.
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Serve immediately and enjoy!
Note
- The salad can be customized by adding other veggies like bell peppers, snow peas, or avocados.
- If you want to make this dish ahead of time, keep the dressing separate until just before serving to prevent wilting.
- This salad works great as a light meal or a side dish to complement any Asian-inspired main course.
- For a gluten-free option, make sure to use tamari sauce instead of soy sauce.
