This Quick And Easy Chinese Chicken Salad is fresh and crunchy, loaded with colorful veggies and tender chicken. The sweet and tangy dressing makes it super tasty!
I love how fast this salad comes together. Just toss everything in a bowl, drizzle on the dressing, and you’re ready to enjoy a yummy meal that feels like a treat! 🥗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Chicken: I love using rotisserie chicken for this salad because it’s tender and full of flavor. If you don’t have rotisserie chicken, any leftover grilled or baked chicken works too. You could even use tofu for a vegetarian option!
Napa Cabbage: This adds a crunchy texture. If you can’t find napa cabbage, you could use regular green cabbage or even romaine. They both offer a nice crunch but with a different flavor profile.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro gives this salad its unique taste. If you’re not a fan of cilantro, try parsley or even mint for a fresh twist!
Wonton Strips: These add a delightful crunch. If you’re looking for a healthier alternative, you can use baked tortilla chips or even skip them for a lighter salad.
Peanuts/Cashews: They provide a nice salty bite. If you have a nut allergy, sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds make a great substitute, maintaining the crunch!
How Do You Make a Perfect Salad Dressing?
The dressing is crucial to making the flavors pop! While this recipe is simple, getting the right balance is key. Start by whisking the soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, sugar, ginger, and garlic together until the sugar dissolves. Taste as you go!
- Use fresh ginger for a lovely fragrance—grate it finely for the best results.
- Feel free to adjust the sugar based on your sweetness preference. If you like it a bit tangy, you can add more rice vinegar!
- Make sure to season with salt and pepper at the end, since soy sauce can be salty.
By ensuring your dressing is well-balanced, you’ll enhance the overall flavor of your salad. Toss well to coat all ingredients equally, and you’ll have a refreshing dish every time!
Quick And Easy Chinese Chicken Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (preferably rotisserie chicken)
- 4 cups napa cabbage, shredded
- 1 cup carrots, shredded
- 1 cup red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 cup green onions, chopped
- 1 cup fresh cilantro leaves, chopped
- 1 cup mandarin orange segments (fresh or canned, drained)
- 1/2 cup crispy wonton strips
- 1/2 cup roasted peanuts or cashews
- 1/4 cup sesame seeds (optional)
For the Dressing:
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare. It’s quick to chop and mix the ingredients, plus you’ll have a delicious meal ready to serve right after!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Salad Ingredients:
In a large bowl, add the shredded chicken, napa cabbage, shredded carrots, sliced red bell pepper, chopped green onions, chopped cilantro, and mandarin orange segments. Toss them gently to combine everything evenly.
2. Making the Dressing:
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, sugar, grated ginger, and minced garlic. Keep whisking until the sugar has fully dissolved. Taste the dressing and add salt and pepper as you like.
3. Combining Everything:
Pour the dressing over your salad mixture in the large bowl. Use a big spoon or tongs to toss everything together. Make sure all the delicious ingredients are coated in that flavorful dressing.
4. Adding Crunch and Serving:
Right before you’re ready to serve, add the crispy wonton strips and roasted peanuts or cashews. If you’re using sesame seeds, sprinkle those on top as well. Toss it lightly to combine the toppings without breaking them. Serve immediately and enjoy the fresh, crunchy flavors!
Can I Use Other Types of Cabbage?
Absolutely! While napa cabbage is traditional, you can substitute it with green cabbage or even shredded purple cabbage for a pop of color. Just make sure to shred it finely so the texture works well with the other ingredients.
What If I Can’t Find Wonton Strips?
No problem! You can substitute wonton strips with crispy chow mein noodles or even tortilla chips for a different crunch. Just be sure to add them right before serving to keep them crispy!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Note that the wonton strips may get soggy, so you might want to keep them separate and add them fresh just before eating.
Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
Yes, you can make this salad vegan by omitting the chicken and using tofu or chickpeas as protein substitutes. Replace the honey in the dressing with maple syrup or agave nectar for sweetness, and check that your soy sauce is vegan-friendly.
