This Easy Chinese Chicken Salad is light, crunchy, and perfect for summer! With tender chicken, fresh veggies, and a tasty dressing, it’s a meal that makes you feel good.
Seriously, who doesn’t love a salad that actually fills you up? I love mixing in some crispy noodles for an extra crunch. It’s like a party in your mouth! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Chicken: I like using rotisserie chicken for its tender, flavorful convenience. If you’re looking for a lighter option, grilled chicken breast works great too. You can also use tofu for a vegetarian version!
Napa Cabbage: This is key for that crunchy texture. If you can’t find it, regular green cabbage or bok choy can be good substitutes. They won’t mimic the taste exactly but still hold up nicely in the salad.
Mandarin Oranges: Fresh mandarin segments add sweetness! If they aren’t in season, canned oranges work perfectly—just be sure to drain them well. You could also use fresh pineapple for a twist!
Crispy Wonton Strips: These add that delightful crunch! If you’re looking for a healthier option, try using baked tortilla strips or simply omit them altogether.
How Do I Make Sure My Dressing is Perfectly Blended?
Making the dressing is a crucial step! To ensure it’s mixed well, start by whisking all the dressing ingredients in a small bowl or jar until smooth. Here’s how:
- Add the soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, sesame oil, ginger, garlic, and red pepper flakes into the bowl or jar.
- Use a whisk or shake it in a jar until everything is well combined.
- Make sure there are no chunks of honey left; the mixture should be well blended and slightly thickened.
- To make it even better, taste the dressing and adjust it! Add more honey for sweetness or soy sauce for saltiness based on your preference.
This dressing ties the salad together beautifully, so don’t rush this part! Taking a little extra time will enhance the salad’s overall flavor.
Easy Chinese Chicken Salad Recipe for Summer
Ingredients:
- For the Salad:
- 3 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
- 4 cups napa cabbage, thinly sliced
- 2 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
- 2 large carrots, peeled into ribbons or shredded
- 1 cup mandarin orange segments (canned or fresh)
- 3 green onions, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro leaves
- 1/2 cup cashews, roasted
- 1 cup crispy wonton strips or fried chow mein noodles
- 2 tablespoons sesame seeds, toasted
For the Dressing:
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey or sugar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and is best served chilled, but you can enjoy it right away! It’s super quick and ideal for busy summer days.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Salad Ingredients:
In a large salad bowl, combine the shredded chicken, napa cabbage, romaine lettuce, carrot ribbons, mandarin orange segments, green onions, and cilantro leaves. Give it a gentle toss to mix everything together—this colorful mix is going to be delicious!
2. Add Crunchy Elements:
Next, sprinkle the roasted cashews and toasted sesame seeds into the salad. Save the crispy wonton strips or fried chow mein noodles for the final touch right before you serve. This keeps them nice and crunchy!
3. Whisk Up the Dressing:
In a small bowl or jar, combine the soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey (or sugar), sesame oil, grated ginger, minced garlic, and optional crushed red pepper flakes. Whisk or shake until the honey is dissolved and everything is well blended. This dressing adds amazing flavor!
4. Dress the Salad:
Pour the dressing over your salad mixture. Toss gently until all the ingredients are coated. Make sure not to be too rough – you want to keep the veggies crisp and fresh!
5. Finish with Crunch:
Before serving, sprinkle the crispy wonton strips or fried chow mein noodles over the top of the salad. This adds a delightful crunch!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the salad chilled or at room temperature. For a fresh touch, you can add lime wedges on the side if you like! Enjoy this refreshing salad on a warm summer day!
This Easy Chinese Chicken Salad is refreshing, healthy, and packed with flavors and textures. Perfect for lunch, dinner, or any summer gathering—enjoy this vibrant dish!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Leftover Chicken for This Salad?
Absolutely! Leftover roasted or grilled chicken works perfectly. Just shred it and add it to the salad. This is a great way to enjoy leftovers while creating a fresh meal!
How Can I Make This Salad Vegetarian?
It’s easy! Simply substitute the chicken with tofu or another favorite plant-based protein. Grilled or baked tofu adds a wonderful texture, or you can use chickpeas for some added protein!
Can I Make the Dressing Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! The dressing can be made several days in advance and stored in an airtight container in the fridge. Just give it a good shake or stir before using to mix up any separated ingredients.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. It’s best to keep the crispy wonton strips separate until you’re ready to serve to maintain their crunch!
