If you’re looking for a light meal at home that’s packed with vegetables and crunch, make this Crispy, Crunchy Asian Chicken Salad. The zesty sesame dressing adds a kick to the dish, making it a great lunch or dinner.
Table of Contents
Crunchy Asian Chicken Salad:
- When it comes to fresh and flavorful meals that are light and perfect for lunch or dinner, this is the perfect dish.
- This Asian chicken salad recipe is packed with tender shredded chicken, crispy vegetables, crunchy toppings, and a homemade sesame soy dressing, making this salad both healthy and incredibly delicious.
- It provides all the information in easy-to-follow steps, from ingredient details to specific storage tips.
- Finally, here are some questions you may have that can help you identify and correct any mistakes you might have made.
Why we love this Crunchy Asian Chicken Salad:
- It’s more than just crunchy, with carrots, fresh cabbage, and almonds adding a wonderful crunch.
- It’s incredibly healthy and filling, packed with nutrient-rich lean protein and plenty of vegetables.
- This is a great meal prep recipe that you can make in advance.
- It’s versatile, as you can substitute shrimp, beef, or tofu for chicken.
- If you don’t want takeout, use clean, fresh, and MSG-free ingredients.
All the Key Ingredients
Here are all the key ingredients for this amazing, delicious salad:
Salad Ingredients:
- 3 cups Napa cabbage, thinly sliced
- 3 green onions, chopped
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken breast
- 2 cups red cabbage, thinly sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 cup grated carrot
- 1 cup peeled edamame, optional for more protein
- 1/2 cup crispy chow mein noodles, optional for topping
- 1/2 cup chopped almonds
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
Dressing Ingredients:
- 3 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons grated fresh ginger
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon sesame seeds
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 garlic clove, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon Sriracha, optional for spiciness
Step-by-step instructions
1. Preparing the Chicken
- If you’re using raw chicken breast, bake it first. Season with a little salt and pepper and cook it thoroughly at 375°F (190°C) for 22 to 25 minutes.
- Once cooked, let it cool slightly at room temperature for a few minutes, then shred it finely with a fork.
- **On busy days, store-bought rotisserie chicken can be used for convenience.
2. Cutting and Preparing the Vegetables
Use the 5 ingredients listed as per the instructions:
- Thinly slice the cabbage, sautéing it on both sides to bring out the color and crispness of the vegetables.
- Slice the bell peppers into thin strips, grate the carrots, and chop the green onions and cilantro.
- Take a dry pan and lightly roast the almonds for 3 to 4 minutes, until fragrant and golden.
3. Making the Dressing
- To make the dressing, take a small bowl and combine rice vinegar, soy sauce, olive oil, sesame oil, lemon juice, honey, garlic, ginger, Sriracha, and sesame seeds in the quantities indicated on the ingredients list.
- Add seasonings to taste and then mix. If you prefer a sweeter version, add a little honey.
- For spiciness, add a little lemon juice or a dash of Sriracha.
4. Preparing the Salad
- In a large bowl, add the shredded chicken, carrots, cabbage, bell peppers, green onions, and edamame. Mix well, ensuring they are all well-coated.
- Drink the dressing over the salad and continue tossing until well coated.
5. Garnish and Serve
- To garnish, sprinkle roasted almonds, fresh cilantro, and chow mein noodles on top.
- For a crunchy addition, serve immediately and enjoy this crunchy Asian chicken salad.
Some pro tips for crunchy Asian chicken salad:
- It’s always easier to shred hot chicken, as it separates quickly when it’s slightly warm.
- Balancing the flavors: Achieving the perfect blend of salty, sweet, spicy, and tangy is essential for the dressing to blend well.
- Setting the crunchy topping aside: Once the dish is ready, add the noodles and almonds before serving.
- Chilling before serving: If you want a fresher salad, refrigerate it for 20 to 22 minutes before serving.
- Preparing the salad: If you want a more nutritious salad, consider adding rice noodles or quinoa.
Some variations:
- For a seafood twist: Use grilled shrimp or salmon. Be sure to avoid chicken.
- For vegetarians: Use tempeh or crispy tofu. Chicken is a no-no.
- For peanut dressing – Use peanut butter instead of sesame oil and choose a creamier option.
- For low-carb options – If you prefer a low-carb diet, skip the chow mein noodles and substitute honey with monk fruit sweetener.
- For spicy foods – add chili flakes, more Sriracha, or chopped jalapenos.
Storage:
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days.
- Crispy filling and dressing should be kept separate before eating.
- Do not refrigerate – the texture of fresh vegetables deteriorates.
Nutrition – Per 4 servings
- 320 calories
- 15 grams fat
- 25 grams protein
- 6 grams fiber
- 7 grams sugar
- 18 grams carbohydrates
Serving Suggestion for Crunchy Asian Chicken Salad:
- Asian Style – For a meal, use a little miso soup to serve with spring rolls.
- Additional Carbohydrates – Serve with quinoa or steamed jasmine rice.
- For lunch, take this in a Mason jar.
FAQ, Crunchy Asian Chicken Salad
Q. How can I make this gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, use tamari and avoid chow mein noodles.
Q. What vegetables can be used in this dish?
You can use snap peas, cucumbers, broccoli salad, or even mango for a fruity flavor.
Q. Can the dressing be made in advance?
Absolutely! The dressing can be made in advance and kept in the refrigerator for 4 to 5 days.
Q. Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Yes! This is great for busy days, making the recipe quick and convenient.
Q. Crunchy Asian Chicken Salad Recipe is great for weight loss.
Yes! It’s high in protein, rich in fiber, and low in calories, making it a healthy choice.
Q. Can chicken salad be served hot?
Yes! But it’s best served cold. To change it up, try using warm chicken and some wilted vegetables.
Final Thoughts
Crunchy Asian Chicken Salad is a great combination of crispness and rich flavor. It’s quick to prepare and healthy.
A versatile dish that can suit any taste. Whether you’re planning to make it for a family dinner, take it to a potluck, or pack something for lunch, this crunchy Asian chicken salad will never disappoint. It’s packed with delicious flavor in every bite, making it a delicious meal that people will want to eat again and again.
So try this this weekend or right now because you can enjoy restaurant-like food at home.