Name: Chinese Chicken Salad
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 8 min
Total time: 13 min
Ingredients: 1 Chicken breast; 1 Large carrot (peeled and sliced into thin coins); 1 Head of napa cabbage (chopped); 1/2 cup Red bell pepper (sliced into 1/2-inch strips); 2 tablespoons Cilantro (chopped); 2 teaspoons Toasted sesame seeds; 1/2 teaspoon Sesame oil; 1 tablespoon Soy sauce ((or bragg's liquid aminos)); 1/2 teaspoon Ginger (minced); 1 tablespoon Rice vinegar; 1 tablespoon Almond butter; 1 tablespoon Mayonnaise ((or vegannaise)); 2 tablespoons Oil

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When I think of a refreshing and vibrant dish, the Chinese Chicken Salad immediately comes to mind. This salad has been a staple in my kitchen for years, especially during warmer months when I crave something light yet satisfying. I remember the first time I tried it at a quaint little café, where the flavors burst with every bite. The combination of tender chunks of chicken, crispy cabbage, and colorful bell peppers danced together in harmony on my palate. I knew I had to recreate it at home. It quickly became a favorite at family gatherings, where everyone would ask for seconds. Not only is it delicious, but it’s also incredibly easy to prepare, making it the perfect dish for busy weeknights or leisurely weekend lunches. You can even customize it with your favorite ingredients or dressings, making it a versatile choice for any occasion.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
13 mins

Prep Time:
5 mins

Cook Time:
8 mins

Difficulty:
Easy

Calories:
350 kcal

Protein:
28 g

Diet:
Keto, Whole30, Gluten-Free

Fat:
23 g

Tools Used:
Food Processor, Peeler, Large Pot, Chef’s Knife

What Makes This Chinese Chicken Salad Special

Nutritious and Wholesome

One of the reasons I absolutely adore the Chinese Chicken Salad is its nutritional value. Each ingredient plays a vital role in delivering a balanced meal. The chicken provides lean protein, while the colorful veggies offer essential vitamins and minerals. This salad is not just a meal; it’s a powerhouse of nourishment.

Crunch That Satisfies

The texture of this salad is simply delightful. The cabbage adds a satisfying crunch, complemented by the crispness of the carrots and bell peppers. Each bite brings a wonderful contrast that keeps you coming back for more. It’s a textural delight that feels refreshing and satisfying at the same time.

Flavorful Dressing

The dressing for this salad is a game changer. By blending almond butter, soy sauce, and ginger, you create a rich and savory sauce that ties all the flavors together beautifully. It’s creamy, tangy, and has just the right hint of sweetness, elevating the salad to a whole new level.

Easy to Make

Another reason this recipe stands out is its simplicity. You can whip up the Chinese Chicken Salad in no time. Whether you’re in a rush or enjoying a lazy day at home, this salad comes together quickly, making it an ideal choice for any occasion.

Versatile and Customizable

This salad is incredibly versatile. You can easily adapt it to your dietary preferences or what you have on hand. Swap the chicken for tofu, or add different veggies like cucumbers or edamame. The possibilities are endless!

A Crowd-Pleaser

Lastly, the Chinese Chicken Salad is always a hit at gatherings. It impresses with its vibrant colors and enticing flavors, making it a perfect dish for potlucks, barbecues, or family dinners. Everyone will be asking for your secret!

Ingredients Overview for Chinese Chicken Salad

The ingredients for the Chinese Chicken Salad are what make it so special. Each component brings its unique flavor and texture, creating a harmonious blend that is both nutritious and satisfying. The key players here are fresh vegetables and lean chicken, which provide a solid foundation for the salad. The addition of a savory dressing enhances the overall flavor profile, making this dish a delightful choice for any meal.

Chicken breast: Tender and juicy, this is the star ingredient that provides lean protein.
Large carrot: Adds a touch of sweetness and vibrant color, sliced into thin coins for a delightful crunch.
Napa cabbage: This leafy vegetable is crisp and refreshing, making it a perfect base for the salad.
Red bell pepper: Sweet and crunchy, these strips add a pop of color and flavor.
Cilantro: Fresh herbs elevate the dish, adding a burst of freshness to every bite.
Toasted sesame seeds: These seeds give a nutty flavor and a delightful crunch to the salad.
Sesame oil: A small amount adds depth and richness to the dressing.
Soy sauce: Provides umami and saltiness, tying all the flavors together.
Ginger: Fresh ginger adds a warm, spicy kick to the dressing.
Rice vinegar: This tangy ingredient brightens the flavors of the salad.
Almond butter: Creamy and rich, it forms the base of the dressing.
Mayonnaise: Adds creaminess and smoothness to the dressing.
Oil: A neutral oil helps to balance the dressing.

How to Make Chinese Chicken Salad

Making the Chinese Chicken Salad is a breeze, and I promise you’ll love how quickly it comes together. Follow these simple steps to create a delicious meal that’s sure to impress. Start by preparing your chicken, and while it’s cooking, chop your vegetables. Soon enough, you’ll have a vibrant, tasty salad ready to enjoy!

Begin by placing the chicken breast in a steamer pot over boiling water. Make sure the water is bubbling steadily; this helps to cook the chicken evenly. Steam the chicken for about 8 minutes or until it’s cooked through and no longer pink in the center. Once done, let it cool slightly before cutting it into bite-sized chunks.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled and chopped chicken with the carrot, cabbage, bell pepper, cilantro, and toasted sesame seeds. Toss everything together gently, but thoroughly, ensuring the flavors mix well.
Next, prepare the dressing. In a food processor, add the sesame oil, soy sauce, ginger, rice vinegar, almond butter, mayonnaise, and a splash of oil. Pulse until the ingredients are well combined and creamy.
Drizzle the prepared dressing over the salad mixture in your bowl. Use a spatula to fold the dressing into the salad gently, being careful not to bruise the vegetables. You want each piece to be coated without losing their crunch.
Once everything is combined, take a moment to taste the salad. Adjust the flavors if necessary by adding more soy sauce for saltiness or a touch more vinegar for acidity.
Let the salad sit for about 10 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. If you’re making it ahead of time, keep the dressing separate until just before serving to maintain the freshness of the vegetables.
Serve the Chinese Chicken Salad in individual bowls or on a large platter. Garnish with additional toasted sesame seeds or cilantro for an extra touch of elegance.
For an added crunch, consider serving with crispy wonton strips or a handful of roasted nuts on top.
Enjoy your homemade Chinese Chicken Salad as a light lunch, dinner, or as a side dish at your next gathering!

Things Worth Knowing

Use fresh ingredients: The key to a vibrant Chinese Chicken Salad is fresh, crisp vegetables. Always choose the freshest produce you can find.
Adjust the dressing: Feel free to modify the dressing based on your taste preferences. If you love a bit more tang, add extra rice vinegar.
Pre-cooked chicken: If you’re short on time, using leftover rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver. Just shred and toss it in!
Make it ahead: This salad can be prepared a few hours in advance. Just keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve.

Ways to Adapt This Recipe

If you’re looking to get creative with the Chinese Chicken Salad, there are numerous ways to adapt it to suit your tastes or dietary needs. Here are some fun ideas to consider:

Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. However, it’s best enjoyed fresh to retain the crunch.
Freezing: Freezing this salad is not recommended as the texture of the vegetables will change upon thawing. Instead, prepare just enough for your meal.
Pairing: Serve this salad with grilled shrimp or tofu for a complete meal. It also pairs wonderfully with a light soup.
Extra crunch: Add crispy wonton strips or chow mein noodles for an extra layer of crunch and texture.
Spice it up: If you enjoy heat, add a bit of sriracha or red pepper flakes to the dressing for a spicy kick.
Herb variations: Experiment with different herbs like mint or basil to give your salad a new twist.
Protein alternatives: Swap the chicken for grilled shrimp, tofu, or chickpeas for a delicious variation.

What to Serve With Chinese Chicken Salad

When it comes to serving the Chinese Chicken Salad, the options are as diverse as the flavors within the dish. Here are some ideas to enhance your meal:

Fried rice: Serve alongside a light and fluffy fried rice for a satisfying combination.
Grilled meats: It pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or fish, adding a protein boost.
Soups: A light miso soup or a refreshing cucumber soup complements the salad perfectly.
Sandwiches: For a heartier meal, accompany it with a simple sandwich, like a turkey and avocado wrap.
Seasonal fruits: Fresh seasonal fruits make a delightful side, providing sweetness and contrast to the savory salad.
Occasions: This salad is perfect for lunch, dinner, or as a side dish for gatherings, picnics, and barbecues.
Light beverages: Pair with herbal teas or light lemonades to refresh your palate.

FAQ

Yes, you can prepare the Chinese Chicken Salad ahead of time. Just keep the dressing separate until you are ready to serve to maintain the freshness of the vegetables. This salad is perfect for meal prep, as it holds well in the refrigerator for up to two days.

Yes, the Chinese Chicken Salad can be made gluten-free. Simply use gluten-free soy sauce or Bragg’s liquid aminos in place of regular soy sauce. Be sure to check all other ingredients for gluten if you have severe allergies or sensitivities.

If you’re looking for alternatives to chicken in the Chinese Chicken Salad, consider using tofu, tempeh, or chickpeas for a delightful vegetarian option. You can also use grilled shrimp or pork, which pair nicely with the flavors of the salad.

To make the Chinese Chicken Salad more filling, you can add quinoa or brown rice as a base. This will not only enhance the texture but also increase the fiber content of your meal. Additionally, incorporating nuts or seeds will provide extra protein and healthy fats.

Conclusion

The Chinese Chicken Salad truly stands out as a refreshing and versatile dish. Its combination of vibrant flavors and textures makes it a delightful meal that anyone can enjoy. I encourage you to give this recipe a try; you won’t be disappointed! It’s a fantastic way to enjoy a light, nutritious dish that can easily adapt to your taste preferences.