Asian Chicken Salad: Healthy & Easy Recipe

Name: Asian Chicken Salad
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 1/3 cup sliced almonds; 1 tablespoon sesame seeds; 12 ounces coleslaw mix (or shredded cabbage); 2 cups green leaf lettuce (or any leafy green, like romaine); 1/2 cup cilantro, chopped; 1-2 green onions, thinly sliced; 2 cups chopped cooked chicken (rotisserie or poached); 1/2 cup mandarin oranges, drained; 1/3 cup chow mein noodles; 1/4 cup olive oil; 1/4 cup rice vinegar; 2 tablespoons honey; 1 tablespoon soy sauce; 1 teaspoon sesame oil; 1 clove garlic, grated; 1 1/2 inch knob ginger, grated; 1/8 teaspoon red pepper flakes

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Asian Chicken Salad is a vibrant and nutritious dish that’s perfect for lunch or dinner. With its crunchy cabbage, sweet mandarin oranges, and savory ginger dressing, this salad delivers a satisfying meal that won’t weigh you down. Whether you’re looking for a quick meal prep option or something to serve at a family gathering, this recipe fits the bill with its delicious flavors and versatility.

Why You’ll Love This Asian Chicken Salad

This Asian Chicken Salad is a crowd-pleaser that checks all the boxes: it’s healthy, quick to prepare, and packed with flavor. The combination of crunchy textures from cabbage, almonds, and chow mein noodles, along with the sweetness of mandarin oranges, makes every bite enjoyable. The homemade ginger dressing brings it all together, offering a tangy yet savory balance that enhances the freshness of the vegetables and chicken.

Not only is this salad delicious, but it’s also customizable and perfect for meal prep. You can make a large batch and enjoy it for a few days, and you can adjust the ingredients to fit your taste or dietary preferences. Whether you’re using leftover rotisserie chicken or grilled shrimp, this salad can be made to suit your needs.

Ingredients for Asian Chicken Salad

Here’s a quick overview of the ingredients that make up this Asian Chicken Salad:

• Coleslaw Mix: A convenient pre-shredded mix of cabbage and carrots, providing a crunchy base for the salad.

• Green Leaf Lettuce: Adds a soft and refreshing texture to balance the crispiness of the cabbage.

• Cilantro: Offers a fresh and herbaceous flavor that brightens up the salad.

• Chicken: Use cooked, shredded rotisserie chicken or any leftover chicken you have on hand for a protein-packed base.

• Sliced Almonds: Toasted for extra crunch, they add a nutty flavor to the salad.

• Sesame Seeds: Toasted sesame seeds add a subtle yet aromatic flavor that complements the other ingredients.

• Mandarin Oranges: Sweet and juicy, they add a burst of flavor that pairs wonderfully with the savory elements of the salad.

• Garlic & Ginger: Fresh garlic and grated ginger are key ingredients for making the zesty ginger dressing.

• Olive Oil & Rice Vinegar: Olive oil helps balance the acidity of rice vinegar, creating a smooth and tangy dressing.

• Soy Sauce: Adds an umami depth to the dressing, bringing a savory element to the dish.

• Honey: A touch of sweetness that balances the tanginess of the vinegar.

• Red Pepper Flakes: Adds a bit of spice to the dressing, giving it an extra kick.

• Chow Mein Noodles: These crispy noodles add crunch and texture to finish off the salad.

Substitutions and Alternatives

• Veggies: If you like extra vegetables in your salad, consider adding red bell pepper, snow peas, or even broccoli.

• Nuts: If you have a nut allergy, skip the almonds and sesame seeds or substitute with crunchy wonton strips for a similar texture.

• Chow Mein Noodles: You can also swap these for crispy wonton strips or skip them entirely if you’re looking for a lighter option.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Toast the Almonds and Sesame Seeds: Heat a small skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced almonds and sesame seeds, toasting them for about 5 minutes while stirring frequently to avoid burning. Once toasted, set them aside to cool.
Combine the Salad Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the coleslaw mix, lettuce, cilantro, green onions, and chopped chicken.
Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, rice vinegar, honey, soy sauce, sesame oil, red pepper flakes, and grated ginger and garlic. Whisk well to combine the flavors.
Assemble the Salad: Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss until everything is well coated. Add the toasted almonds, sesame seeds, mandarin oranges, and chow mein noodles on top. Toss again to combine, and serve immediately.
For Meal Prep: If making the salad ahead of time, store the salad and dressing separately to maintain freshness. When ready to serve, simply mix the dressing with the salad and enjoy.

Tips & Tricks for Perfecting Your Asian Chicken Salad

• Crunchy Texture: For extra crunch, make sure to toast your almonds and sesame seeds until golden brown. This enhances their flavor and adds a satisfying texture.

• Avoid Soggy Salad: If you’re prepping this salad for later, store the dressing separately from the salad to keep the cabbage and other ingredients crisp.

• Customize the Flavors: Feel free to adjust the sweetness or spice level of the dressing. Add more honey for sweetness or a pinch of chili flakes for heat.

• Storing Leftovers: If you have leftovers, keep the salad and dressing separate. The salad will stay fresh in an airtight container for 3–4 days.

Pairing Ideas and Variations

This Asian Chicken Salad is a versatile dish that can be paired with a variety of sides or customized with different ingredients. Here are a few ideas:

• Side Dishes: Serve with a side of steamed rice or a light vegetable stir-fry to complete the meal.

• Toppings: For an added protein boost, you can top the salad with grilled shrimp or tofu.

• Spicy Variation: If you prefer a spicy version, add a small amount of Sriracha sauce to the dressing or sprinkle extra red pepper flakes on top.

• Gluten-Free: For a gluten-free version, skip the chow mein noodles or substitute with gluten-free noodles.

Healthy, Customizable, and Easy to Prepare

Asian Chicken Salad is not only a healthy choice but also highly customizable. Whether you’re using rotisserie chicken or adding extra vegetables, this recipe adapts to your preferences. It’s quick to prepare, making it a great meal for busy weeknights or as part of your meal prep routine.

The balance of crunchy vegetables, savory chicken, and a flavorful ginger dressing makes this salad a standout dish for any occasion. Plus, it’s perfect for both casual meals and more formal gatherings. With its light yet filling nature, Asian Chicken Salad is sure to become a favorite in your weekly meal rotation.

Conclusion

Asian Chicken Salad is the perfect balance of fresh ingredients, bold flavors, and satisfying textures. Whether you’re making it for a quick weeknight meal or prepping for lunches throughout the week, this salad delivers both in taste and convenience. The versatility of the ingredients allows you to adjust the recipe to your preferences, making it a go-to for almost any occasion. The combination of the crispy cabbage, sweet mandarin oranges, toasted almonds, and flavorful ginger dressing will keep you coming back for more. Don’t forget to mix in your favorite proteins or extra veggies to make it your own. Enjoy this delicious, healthy dish that’s as easy to prepare as it is to eat!

FAQ Section

Can I make this Asian Chicken Salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can definitely make this salad ahead of time! However, to maintain the freshness and crunchiness of the ingredients, store the salad and dressing separately. Combine them right before serving to ensure the cabbage stays crisp and the other ingredients remain fresh. The salad can be kept in the fridge for up to 3-4 days when stored properly.

Can I use a different protein instead of chicken?

Absolutely! While this recipe uses chicken, you can easily swap it for grilled shrimp, tofu, or even beef if you prefer. This salad is highly versatile, so feel free to adjust the protein to suit your taste or dietary preferences.

How can I make this Asian Chicken Salad gluten-free?

To make this Asian Chicken Salad gluten-free, simply omit the chow mein noodles or substitute them with gluten-free noodles or crunchy rice crackers. Ensure the soy sauce you use is gluten-free, or you can opt for a tamari sauce as a gluten-free alternative.

More Relevant Recipes