Easy & Zesty Chinese Chicken Salad with Crunchy Noodles

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Craving a meal that’s both refreshing and satisfying? Look no further than this incredible Chinese Chicken Salad recipe! It’s the perfect harmony of crisp vegetables, tender shredded chicken, and a zesty, flavorful dressing that will transport your taste buds straight to your favorite Asian bistro. Forget soggy salads; this one is packed with vibrant textures and an irresistible crunch, making it an absolute weeknight winner.

Whether you’re looking for a light lunch, a quick dinner, or a fantastic dish to bring to a potluck, this Chinese Chicken Salad delivers every time. It comes together in a flash, requiring minimal cooking (especially if you use pre-cooked chicken!), and leaves you with a truly delicious and healthy meal. Get ready to impress yourself and your family with this easy-to-make, utterly delightful salad. For more fresh ideas, check out Delish.com.

Ingredients

For the Dressing:

• 2 tbsp light soy sauce (Note 1)
• 3 tbsp rice vinegar (aka rice wine vinegar, or use cider vinegar)
• 1 tbsp sesame oil (toasted)
• 2 tbsp grapeseed oil (or canola or any other neutral-flavored oil)
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1 1/2 tsp fresh ginger, grated or very finely chopped
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1/2 tsp black pepper

For the Salad:

• 4 cups Chinese cabbage (Nappa Cabbage), finely shredded (Note 2)
• 1 1/2 cups red cabbage, finely shredded
• 1 cup carrot, finely julienned (see video)
• 2 cups chicken, shredded
• 1/2 cup shallots/scallions, finely sliced on the diagonal
• 1/2 to 1 cup crunchy noodles (I use Chang’s, available at ) (Note 3)
• 1 – 2 tsp sesame seeds

Product Spotlight

Chang’s Fried Noodles

around $1

Chang’s brand. Cheap price point.

Buy on Amazon

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dressing. Combine all the dressing ingredients – light soy sauce, rice vinegar, toasted sesame oil, grapeseed oil, sugar, grated fresh ginger, minced garlic clove, and black pepper – in a small jar. Secure the lid tightly and shake vigorously until all ingredients are well combined and the sugar has dissolved. Set the dressing aside for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and deepen, creating a more robust, harmonious flavor. This resting period is crucial for the ginger and garlic to infuse thoroughly. You can find more dressing tips on Taste of Home.

Step 2: Assemble the Salad. In a large mixing bowl, combine the finely shredded Chinese (Napa) cabbage, finely shredded red cabbage, and finely julienned carrots. Add the shredded chicken and half of the crunchy noodles. For a refreshing side, consider pairing this with Crispy Air Fryer Broccoli Florets.

Step 3: Dress and Toss. Drizzle the prepared dressing generously over the salad ingredients in the large bowl. Using tongs or clean hands, gently toss all the components together until everything is evenly coated with the flavorful dressing. Ensure the vegetables and chicken are thoroughly mixed, and the crunchy noodles are distributed throughout. For more expert advice, visit RecipeTin Eats.

Step 4: Serve Immediately. Divide the tossed salad among individual serving bowls. Top each portion with the remaining crunchy noodles and a good sprinkle of sesame seeds for extra flavor and visual appeal. Serve immediately to enjoy the maximum crunch and freshness of the salad. For another easy chicken recipe, check out Easy One Pan Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken.

For more great recipes, explore Damn Delicious or NYT Cooking.

FAQ Section

Question: Can I prepare Chinese Chicken Salad in advance?

Answer: While the dressing can be made a day or two ahead and stored in the refrigerator, it’s best to assemble and dress the salad just before serving. This ensures the cabbage and noodles remain crisp. If you must prepare it ahead, keep the dressing separate and add the crunchy noodles just before serving.

Question: What kind of chicken is best for Chinese Chicken Salad?

Answer: Cooked, shredded chicken breast or thigh works perfectly. You can use leftover roast chicken, rotisserie chicken for convenience, or quickly poach and shred chicken breasts. For a flavorful touch, you could even use grilled chicken. To shred chicken efficiently, consider using a chicken shredder tool.

Question: Are there any good substitutions for Napa Cabbage?

Answer: If Napa cabbage isn’t available, you can use a mix of green cabbage and romaine lettuce for a similar crunch and volume. Iceberg lettuce also works well for its crisp texture. The key is to have a sturdy green that can stand up to the dressing.

Conclusion

This Chinese Chicken Salad is more than just a meal; it’s a vibrant experience for your palate. With its symphony of fresh textures, savory chicken, and an unforgettable ginger-sesame dressing, it’s a recipe you’ll want to keep on repeat. It’s proof that healthy and quick meals can be incredibly delicious and satisfying.

We hope you enjoy making and devouring this delightful salad as much as we do. Don’t forget to experiment with your favorite additions, like mandarin oranges or sliced almonds, to truly make it your own. Happy cooking!