Crunchy Asian chicken salad
Why You’ll Love Asian Chicken Salad With Sesame Dressing
This Asian chicken salad is all about texture, punchy flavors, and real ingredients that fuel you through a busy day. The crunchy veggies meet the chewy chow mein noodles, while marinated chicken brings a savory, aromatic backbone.
A sesame dressing ties it all together with salty, toasty notes. It’s approachable for weeknights yet enough for a crowd-pleasing potluck. Plus, you can customize with whatever greens you have on hand and scale the heat with a dash of chili oil. It’s the kind of dish you can make ahead, then toss just before serving for maximum crunch.
Ingredients
- Chicken breast, diced [for a lean protein boost]
- Cabbage, shredded [use a mix of green and red for color]
- Shredded Brussels sprouts (optional) [adds extra crunch and bite]
- Carrots, bright grated or thinly sliced
- Almonds, slivered or chopped [toasted for depth]
- Chow mein noodles [or vermicelli for a lighter option]
- Soy sauce [or tamari for gluten-free]
- Ginger, grated
- Garlic, minced
- Garam masala [adds warmth and nuance]
- Sesame dressing [or any favorite Asian-inspired dressing]
- Green onions, sliced [for brightness]
- Sesame seeds [for garnish]
- Lime or rice vinegar [optional brightness]
Ingredients (serves 4)
- Servings: 4
- Tip: If you’re short on time, use pre-cooked chicken and a store-bought sesame dressing to speed things up.
Timing
- Prep time: 20 minutes
- Cook time: 10 minutes
- Total time: 30 minutes
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Marinate or season the chicken with a quick mix of ginger, garlic, garam masala, and soy sauce. Cook until done, then slice or shred.
Step 2: In a large bowl, combine shredded cabbage, shredded Brussels sprouts (if using), carrots, and green onions.
Step 3: Add almonds and chow mein noodles. Toss with sesame dressing to coat lightly.
Step 4: Add the warm chicken and toss gently to combine. Garnish with sesame seeds and extra green onions.
Step 5: Serve immediately or refrigerate briefly to let flavors meld. Drizzle with a little extra dressing before serving if desired.
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 420 per serving
- Fat: 18 g
- Carbohydrates: 38 g
- Fiber: 6 g
- Protein: 28 g Notes: For a lighter version, use less chow mein noodles and more leafy greens; swap in a lighter sesame dressing or a vinaigrette.
Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
- Use rotisserie chicken for speed and convenience.
- Swap chow mein noodles for shredded cabbage or quinoa for more fiber.
- Replace fried almonds with roasted chickpeas for crunch with more plant-based protein.
- Use a lower-sodium soy sauce or tamari to cut salt.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve alongside steamed rice or cauliflower rice for a complete meal.
- Add a squeeze of lime and extra fresh herbs (cilantro or Thai basil) for brightness.
- Pair with a light, cucumber-based side salad to keep the meal fresh and balanced.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Over-dressing the salad, which can soften the crunch. Dress just before serving or in small portions.
- Not toasting the almonds properly—heat them until fragrant to maximize flavor.
- Overcooking the chicken; juicy slices make the salad more enjoyable.
Storing Tips for the Recipe
If you’re making this ahead, keep the greens and dressing separate from the chicken and noodles. Store the chicken in an airtight container, the greens with dressing on the side, and the leftover noodles in a separate bag. Reassemble just before serving to maintain crunch. The salad keeps well for up to 2 days in the fridge, though crunch may diminish over time.
Conclusion This Crunchy Asian chicken salad (main keyword) hits all the right notes: crisp vegetables, savory marinated chicken, and a sesame-dressed finish that’s both bold and balanced. It’s adaptable, weeknight-friendly, and guaranteed to satisfy that crave-to-chomp impulse with every bite.
FAQ’s
What goes in an Asian chicken salad?
A mix of crunchy greens (cabbage, Brussels sprouts, lettuce), protein (chicken), nuts or seeds (almonds, sesame), noodles or crunchy toppings (chow mein), and an Asian-inspired dressing (sesame, soy, ginger, garlic, garam masala).
What are some common mistakes to avoid when making chicken salad?
Over-wetting the greens with dressing, under-seasoning the chicken, soggy toppings from excess dressing, and not toasting nuts for flavor.
What are the 4 ingredients in chicken salad?
Common simple versions often include chicken, mayo or dressing, celery or greens, and seasonings; but this version uses chicken, crunchy vegetables, nuts, and sesame dressing as core components.
What is Chinese salad dressing made of?
Typically a mix of soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, ginger, garlic, and a touch of sugar or honey; optional chili and sesame seeds for extra kick and texture.
