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Chinese chicken salad is my go-to for quick lunches or easy weeknight dinners It is bursting with vibrant flavors comes together in minutes and is a delicious way to use leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken The homemade ginger sesame dressing makes everything sing and the crunchy fresh vegetables turn it into a craveable meal
My family devours this every time I made it first for a potluck and have brought it to summer picnics ever since It always disappears fast
Ingredients
- Cooked shredded chicken: About two cups I like to use rotisserie chicken for speed and moisture
- Romaine lettuce: Chopped for a crunchy crisp base choose the hearts for best texture
- Napa cabbage: Chopped for added crunch and a slightly peppery bite look for firm fresh leaves
- Carrots: Julienned or shredded these add sweetness and lots of color Choose bright orange carrots free of cracks
- Green onions: Chopped for a mild oniony freshness look for crisp green tops
- Cilantro: Chopped brings a hint of citrusy herbal flavor always use fresh leaves and avoid wilted bunches
- Mandarin oranges: These add juicy sweetness and a pop of color Use canned mandarins in juice not syrup drain well or go for fresh if in season
- Sliced almonds or cashews: For nutty crunch Toast lightly in a dry pan for best flavor and check for freshness
- Optional sesame seeds: Give extra crunch and a subtle hint of nutty flavor Choose untoasted white or black
- Rice wine vinegar: For acidity and brightness go for unseasoned for a cleaner taste
- Reduced sodium soy sauce: Adds savory depth using low sodium helps control saltiness
- Garlic: Minced use fresh cloves for best flavor
- Honey: Brings gentle sweetness to balance the dressing opt for real honey for best taste
- Fresh grated ginger: For a zesty kick and warmth always grate just before using for maximum flavor
- Sesame oil: Deep nutty aroma and taste Use toasted sesame oil for that signature flavor
- Olive oil: A smooth base for the dressing Always use extra virgin
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Make the Dressing:
- Combine rice wine vinegar soy sauce garlic honey fresh grated ginger sesame oil and olive oil in a small jar with a tight lid Shake until creamy and emulsified Taste and adjust for sweetness or salt
- Assemble the Salad:
- Add chopped romaine lettuce napa cabbage carrots green onions cilantro mandarin oranges and sliced almonds to a very large mixing bowl Ensure everything is cut to similar sizes for easy eating
- Add the Chicken:
- Using clean hands or two forks shred or break up the cooked chicken into bite sized pieces Add to the salad and gently toss through with the veggies
- Dress the Salad:
- Pour the ginger sesame dressing over the salad just before serving Toss very well ensuring every morsel is coated in flavor
- Finish and Serve:
- Scatter optional sesame seeds on top for an added crunch Serve immediately and enjoy every bite
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Those juicy mandarin oranges are my favorite part Their sweetness was a surprise hit the first time I made this and now my kids always pick them out to eat first My mom started adding a double handful to every bowl after seeing their faces light up
Storage Tips
Leftover salad keeps best without dressing Store them separately and mix just before eating If dressed ahead the cabbage and carrots hold up well for a few hours but by day two things soften Mandarins are best added fresh each time
Ingredient Substitutions
Swap the chicken for baked tofu grilled shrimp or shredded rotisserie turkey for variety Out of napa cabbage Use all romaine or mix in red cabbage Sunflower seeds can sub for almonds and if you dislike cilantro simply leave it out or try fresh mint
Serving Suggestions
This salad is a meal as is but try it alongside crispy wonton strips or a bowl of hot rice for extra comfort For parties I love to pile it high in a big platter for passing at barbecues Garnish with a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds
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Enjoy this bright and flavorful salad for any occasion it always hits the spot!
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I make this Chinese chicken salad ahead of time?
Yes, but for best results, prepare the components separately. Store the chopped vegetables, chicken, and dressing in separate containers in the refrigerator. Combine and dress the salad just before serving to maintain the crisp texture of the vegetables.
- → What can I substitute for napa cabbage?
If napa cabbage isn't available, you can substitute with green cabbage, savoy cabbage, or even pre-packaged coleslaw mix. Each will provide a similar crunch though with slightly different flavor profiles.
- → How long does the ginger-sesame dressing last?
The homemade ginger-sesame dressing can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Shake well before using as the oil may separate during storage.
- → Is this salad gluten-free?
The salad is not gluten-free as written due to the soy sauce in the dressing. However, you can easily make it gluten-free by substituting the regular soy sauce with tamari or certified gluten-free soy sauce.
- → What protein can I use instead of chicken?
This versatile salad works well with other proteins like grilled shrimp, baked tofu, or thinly sliced beef. For a vegetarian version, try using edamame beans or crispy baked tofu cubes as your protein source.
- → How can I add more crunch to this salad?
For extra crunch, try adding crispy wonton strips, rice noodles, or water chestnuts. You could also increase the amount of sliced almonds or swap them for crunchy peanuts.