Name: Chinese Chicken Salad Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Ingredients: 4 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded; 6 cups napa cabbage, shredded; 2 cups romaine lettuce, chopped; 1 cup red cabbage, shredded; 1 cup carrots, julienned; 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced; 4 green onions, chopped; 1/2 cup cilantro leaves; 1/2 cup sliced almonds, toasted; 1 cup crispy chow mein noodles; 1/4 cup rice vinegar; 3 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free); 2 tablespoons sesame oil; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil; 2 tablespoons honey; 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice; 1 teaspoon grated ginger; 1 clove garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon sriracha (optional); Salt and black pepper to taste

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If you’re craving something bright, fresh, and packed with flavor, this Chinese Chicken Salad is about to become your new go-to meal. Imagine tender shredded chicken, heaps of crunchy veggies, and a zippy sesame-soy dressing all tossed together and finished with crispy noodles and toasted almonds. It’s the kind of salad that actually feels like a treat — nourishing and satisfying, with every bite offering a delightful mix of textures and tastes. Whether you’re serving a crowd or just lunch for yourself, this salad shines any day of the week.

Chinese Chicken Salad Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

What I love most about making Chinese Chicken Salad is how each ingredient brings something essential to the bowl — color, crunch, protein, or that irresistible savory punch. Gather these simple components and you’ll be amazed at the vibrant salad you can create in just minutes.

Cooked chicken breast, shredded (4 cups): The ultimate protein boost; rotisserie or leftover grilled chicken works beautifully here.
Napa cabbage, shredded (6 cups): This is the crisp, juicy backbone of the salad, lending a mild, sweet crunch.
Romaine lettuce, chopped (2 cups): Adds freshness and a classic salad feel; don’t skip it for that extra green bite.
Red cabbage, shredded (1 cup): Gorgeous color and a peppery note that balances the sweetness of napa cabbage.
Carrots, julienned (1 cup): Sweet and snappy, carrots bring both crunch and a pop of orange beauty.
Red bell pepper, thinly sliced (1): For vibrant color and a hint of sweetness in every forkful.
Green onions, chopped (4): A little sharpness that lifts all the other flavors.
Cilantro leaves (1/2 cup): Fresh, herbal, and brightens every bite — you can adjust to taste.
Sliced almonds, toasted (1/2 cup): Adds nutty depth and a lovely crunch, especially when freshly toasted.
Crispy chow mein noodles (1 cup): The ultimate topping for that signature Chinese Chicken Salad crunch.
Rice vinegar (1/4 cup): The tangy base of our dressing, balancing richness and sweetness.
Soy sauce (3 tablespoons): For that classic umami depth; use tamari if you need gluten-free.
Sesame oil (2 tablespoons): Toasty and aromatic, it gives the dressing its signature Asian-inspired flavor.
Vegetable oil (2 tablespoons): Rounds out the dressing and helps emulsify everything together.
Honey (2 tablespoons): Brings a gentle sweetness that ties everything together.
Fresh lime juice (1 tablespoon): Just a splash for zesty brightness.
Grated ginger (1 teaspoon): Wakes up the dressing with a little spicy zing.
Garlic, minced (1 clove): A flavor punch that perfumes the whole salad.
Sriracha (1 teaspoon, optional): If you like a little kick, this is your friend.
Salt and black pepper, to taste: Essential for seasoning and balance — taste as you go.

How to Make Chinese Chicken Salad

Step 1: Prep the Vegetables and Chicken

Grab your biggest mixing bowl and start by shredding all your veggies: napa cabbage, romaine, red cabbage, carrots, and red bell pepper. Chop up your green onions and cilantro, then toss them all together in the bowl. Add the cooked, shredded chicken right on top. This colorful mix is already a showstopper, but just wait until the dressing goes on!

Step 2: Whisk Up the Dressing

In a smaller bowl or a jar with a tight lid, combine the rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, vegetable oil, honey, lime juice, grated ginger, minced garlic, and sriracha (if you want a little heat). Whisk or shake until the dressing is smooth, glossy, and fully blended — you’ll know it’s ready when it smells absolutely irresistible. Taste and adjust the salt and pepper to your liking.

Step 3: Toss the Salad

Pour the dressing over the chicken and veggie mixture. Using tongs or clean hands, gently toss everything together so every piece is coated with that delicious, tangy dressing. Take a moment to admire all those colors and textures coming together — this is where the magic really happens.

Step 4: Add Crunchy Toppings

Right before you’re ready to serve, sprinkle the toasted sliced almonds and crispy chow mein noodles over the top. These add the perfect finishing crunch and make the salad feel extra special. If you’re serving later, keep these toppings separate so they stay crispy.

How to Serve Chinese Chicken Salad

Garnishes

This salad is already a feast for the eyes, but a few extra touches can make it even more inviting. Try a sprinkle of extra cilantro, a handful of sesame seeds, or a few thin slices of fresh chili if you like it spicy. A twist of lime on the side adds a pop of color and gives guests the option to boost the citrus flavor.

Side Dishes

Chinese Chicken Salad can easily be a meal on its own, but if you want to round out your table, think about serving it alongside steamed jasmine rice, simple miso soup, or some fresh fruit like sliced oranges or pineapple. Each side plays off the salad’s flavors, creating a balanced and satisfying spread.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re entertaining, try serving the salad in individual bowls or mason jars for a fun, portable twist. For a party, set up a DIY salad bar and let guests build their own perfect combination of veggies, chicken, and toppings. You can even roll the salad up in rice paper wrappers for fresh, crunchy salad rolls — perfect finger food for picnics or potlucks!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with extra Chinese Chicken Salad, store it in an airtight container in the fridge. For best texture, keep the crispy noodles and almonds in a separate container so they don’t lose their crunch. The salad will stay fresh for about 2 days, though the veggies may soften a bit over time.

Freezing

Unfortunately, this salad doesn’t freeze well due to the high water content in the vegetables and the delicate nature of the dressing. Freezing can make the veggies soggy and the flavors dull, so it’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated for short-term storage.

Reheating

Since Chinese Chicken Salad is meant to be served cold, there’s no need to reheat. Just toss any leftovers with a little extra dressing if needed and enjoy straight from the fridge. If the salad has lost some crunch, adding a fresh handful of chow mein noodles or almonds can perk it right back up.

FAQs

Can I use a different type Salad

Absolutely! Any cooked chicken works here — poached, grilled, rotisserie, or even leftovers from another meal. If you prefer dark meat, go for thighs; it’ll add extra juiciness.

Is there a vegetarian version of Chinese Chicken Salad?

Yes! Swap the chicken for baked tofu, edamame, or tempeh. The salad base and dressing are naturally vegetarian, so it’s easy to adapt.

How far in advance can I make this salad?

The dressing can be made up to 3 days ahead and stored in the fridge. For the crispest salad, prep the veggies and chicken a day ahead, but toss everything together with the dressing and toppings just before serving.

What can I substitute for chow mein noodles?

If you can’t find crispy chow mein noodles, try using crispy wonton strips, broken ramen noodles (uncooked), or even crushed pita chips for a similar crunch.

Is Chinese Chicken Salad gluten-free?

It can be! Just use tamari instead of soy sauce and make sure your chow mein noodles or toppings are gluten-free. Double-check your ingredient labels to be sure.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a meal that’s as easy as it is impressive, give this Chinese Chicken Salad a try. It’s crunchy, colorful, and full of bold flavors that always hit the spot. I hope it brings as much joy to your table as it does to mine — happy chopping and tossing!

Chinese Chicken Salad Recipe

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4.8 from 21 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

A vibrant and crunchy Chinese Chicken Salad featuring shredded chicken breast, fresh napa and red cabbage, romaine lettuce, colorful vegetables, toasted almonds, and crispy chow mein noodles, all tossed in a tangy and flavorful sesame-ginger dressing. This salad is a perfect light meal or side dish with a delightful Asian-inspired twist.

Ingredients

Scale

Salad Ingredients

4 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
6 cups napa cabbage, shredded
2 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
1 cup red cabbage, shredded
1 cup carrots, julienned
1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
4 green onions, chopped
1/2 cup cilantro leaves
1/2 cup sliced almonds, toasted
1 cup crispy chow mein noodles

Dressing Ingredients

1/4 cup rice vinegar
3 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
2 tablespoons sesame oil
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
2 tablespoons honey
1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
1 teaspoon grated ginger
1 clove garlic, minced
1 teaspoon sriracha (optional)
Salt and black pepper to taste

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Instructions

Prepare the Vegetables and Chicken: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded napa cabbage, chopped romaine lettuce, shredded red cabbage, julienned carrots, thinly sliced red bell pepper, chopped green onions, and cilantro leaves. Add the shredded cooked chicken breast and toss gently to mix all ingredients evenly.
Make the Dressing: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, vegetable oil, honey, fresh lime juice, grated ginger, minced garlic, sriracha if using, and salt and black pepper to taste until the dressing is smooth and well blended.
Toss the Salad: Pour the prepared dressing over the salad mixture and toss thoroughly until every ingredient is coated evenly with the dressing.
Add Crunchy Toppings: Just before serving, sprinkle the toasted sliced almonds and crispy chow mein noodles over the salad to maintain their crunchiness.

Notes

For a lighter option, use grilled chicken breast instead of cooked shredded chicken.
This salad is best served fresh to retain crisp textures.
The dressing can be prepared up to 3 days ahead and stored refrigerated to enhance flavor.
For a gluten-free version, substitute soy sauce with tamari.
If you prefer a spicier salad, adjust the sriracha quantity to your taste.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Category: Salad
Method: No-Cook
Cuisine: Asian-Inspired