Crunchy Asian Chicken Salad

Name: Crunchy Asian Chicken Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded; 4 cups mixed salad greens; 2 cups shredded cabbage; 1 cup shredded carrots; 1/2 cup sliced almonds; 1/2 cup chopped green onions; 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped; 1/4 cup soy sauce; 2 tablespoons sesame oil; 2 tablespoons honey; 1 tablespoon rice vinegar; 1 teaspoon grated ginger; 1 clove garlic, minced

Highlighted under: FreshGlow Recipes

I absolutely love creating fresh, vibrant salads, and this Crunchy Asian Chicken Salad is one of my all-time favorites. The combination of tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and a tangy dressing brings together a delightful explosion of flavors. Each bite is not only satisfying but also packed with nutrients. We’ve incorporated ingredients like cabbage, carrots, and crunchy almonds for texture and color. This salad is perfect for a quick lunch or a light dinner, and I can’t wait to share it with you!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-13T14:33:32.483Z

Making this Crunchy Asian Chicken Salad was such a rewarding experience for me. I started by marinating the chicken in a zesty soy sauce and ginger mixture to infuse maximum flavor. The key to a successful salad is not just in the dressing but also in ensuring that each vegetable is chopped evenly, as this contributes to a harmonious bite every time. I added some sesame seeds and chopped peanuts for that extra crunch!

What really elevates this salad is the homemade sesame dressing. By balancing the sweetness of honey with the acidity of lime, I crafted a dressing that brings out all the salad's textures. I also love serving this salad cold, which makes it incredibly refreshing, especially during warmer months. It’s become a staple in my kitchen!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Vibrant flavors that are both refreshing and satisfying
Perfectly marinated chicken that adds protein and taste
Crunchy textures from fresh vegetables and nuts
Versatile and quick to prepare for any meal

      

Choosing the Right Chicken

When it comes to the chicken in this salad, I recommend using rotisserie chicken for convenience and flavor. If you prefer to cook it yourself, poaching is an excellent method; it keeps the chicken moist. Simply simmer chicken breasts in seasoned water for about 15-20 minutes until cooked through. Allow the chicken to cool before shredding, as this makes it easier to handle. Remember, for the best flavor, marinate the chicken in soy sauce for at least 15 minutes before mixing it into the salad.

For a twist, you can also substitute the chicken with baked tofu for a vegetarian option. Cut the tofu into cubes, toss it with soy sauce, and bake it until golden. This alternative not only aligns with plant-based diets but also provides the same satisfying texture that complements the crunchy elements of the salad.

Vegetable Preparation Tips

The success of this salad heavily relies on the freshness and preparation of your vegetables. I prefer to shred the cabbage and carrots using a box grater or a food processor for a finer texture—this helps them blend seamlessly with the other ingredients. If you're short on time, pre-packaged coleslaw mix can also work, but ensure it's fresh for the best taste and crunch.

Additionally, consider using colorful bell peppers or snap peas to enhance both visual appeal and flavor. These additions not only add brightness to the dish but can also make it more nutritious. Just chop them into bite-sized pieces and toss them in to maintain that delightful crunch. Aim for balance in flavors and textures.

Serving and Storing Tips

To serve this salad, I recommend plating it family-style on a large platter. This not only looks inviting but allows for each guest to take their desired portion. Make sure to sprinkle the almonds, green onions, and cilantro generously as these toppings add the final touch of flavor and crunch. For an added layer of taste, consider adding a sprinkle of sesame seeds right before serving.

If you have leftovers, store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator without the dressing for optimal freshness. This will keep the vegetables crunchy. When ready to enjoy again, simply toss the salad with the dressing, adding a splash of water if needed to refresh the flavors. It's usually best consumed within 1-2 days to retain its texture.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to create a delightful Crunchy Asian Chicken Salad:

For the Salad

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
4 cups mixed salad greens
2 cups shredded cabbage
1 cup shredded carrots
1/2 cup sliced almonds
1/2 cup chopped green onions
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

For the Dressing

1/4 cup soy sauce
2 tablespoons sesame oil
2 tablespoons honey
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 teaspoon grated ginger
1 clove garlic, minced

Make sure to have all ingredients prepped before starting for a smooth cooking experience!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your salad:

Prepare the Chicken

In a bowl, mix the cooked chicken with a tablespoon of soy sauce and let it marinate while you prepare the other ingredients.

Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sesame oil, honey, rice vinegar, grated ginger, and minced garlic until well combined. Set aside.

Assemble the Salad

In a large bowl, combine shredded salad greens, cabbage, carrots, and marinated chicken. Toss to blend the ingredients.

Add Dressing and Serve

Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss until everything is evenly coated. Top with almonds, green onions, and cilantro before serving.

Serve immediately or chill for a refreshing option!

Pro Tips

For added crunch, consider adding crispy wontons on top. You can also vary the salad by including other favorite vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas.

Flavoring Variations

While the dressing in this recipe offers a fantastic balance of salty and sweet, don't hesitate to customize it to suit your palate. For a spicy kick, add a teaspoon of sriracha or chili flakes to the dressing. This will bring a new depth of flavor that pairs exceptionally well with the crunchiness of the salad.

Another delightful variation could include the addition of citrus. A squeeze of lime or lemon juice right before serving brightens up the entire dish and adds a refreshing zing that complements the tangy dressing beautifully.

Preparing Ahead

Prepping this salad in advance can save time, especially for busy weekdays. You can cook and shred the chicken ahead, store it in the fridge, and chop the vegetables a day prior. Just remember to keep them in separate containers to maintain crispness. Mixing the salad and dressing together should be done just before serving to avoid a soggy texture.

If you're looking to meal prep for the week, this salad holds up well when stored separately. You can portion out the salad ingredients and the dressing into mason jars, allowing for a quick grab-and-go option. Just shake the jar before consuming for a fresh meal at your convenience.

Garnishing for Presentation

A well-presented salad can elevate your dining experience, and this Crunchy Asian Chicken Salad is no exception. Consider adding garnishes like thinly sliced radishes or edible flowers for an elegant touch. They not only provide additional color but also introduce exciting textures and flavors.

Additionally, a drizzle of toasted sesame oil right before serving enhances the nuttiness of the salad, while adding a glossy finish that makes the dish visually appealing. Just a little can go a long way in elevating both taste and look.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use leftover chicken for this salad?

Absolutely! Using leftover chicken is a great way to save time and add flavor.

→ How long can I store the salad?

It’s best eaten fresh, but you can store leftovers in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just keep the dressing separate until ready to serve.

→ Is the dressing gluten-free?

You can make this recipe gluten-free by using tamari instead of soy sauce.

→ Can I add more vegetables?

Definitely! Feel free to add any of your favorite vegetables for added flavor and nutrition.