Are you searching for a refreshing and flavorful dish? Look no further than Chinese Chicken Salad, a delightful medley that combines tender chicken with crisp vegetables and a zesty dressing. This vibrant salad not only satisfies cravings but also adds a beautiful pop of color to your table, making it perfect for gatherings or a light lunch.
Moreover, this Asian-inspired salad showcases diverse textures and tastes, from crunchy peanuts to savory sesame oil. With its harmonious blend of flavors, it’s no wonder that the appeal of this salad continues to grow. So, let’s dive into the world of Chinese Chicken Salad and discover how to create your own culinary masterpiece!
Delicious Features of Chinese Chicken Salad:
Chinese Chicken Salad is a vibrant fusion dish that brings together fresh ingredients, bold flavors, and a satisfying crunch. One delightful feature is the crunchy texture from components like shredded cabbage, carrots, and crispy wontons, which contrast beautifully with tender chicken. The dressing, often a zesty mix of sesame oil and rice vinegar, enhances the salad with a subtle sweetness and tangy punch that entices your taste buds.
Moreover, this salad is versatile, making it a perfect centerpiece for a meal or a light side dish. For those who enjoy heartier options, consider pairing it with other dishes, such as the flavorful Hawaiian Teriyaki Chicken. With its myriad of textures and flavors, Chinese Chicken Salad can easily please a crowd, whether you’re preparing it for a cozy dinner or a festive gathering. So, explore this delightful dish and make it a staple in your culinary repertoire!
Ingredients for Chinese Chicken Salad:
This delightful dish combines fresh ingredients and vibrant flavors. For the Asian dressing, you’ll need:
- 2 tbsp light soy sauce
- 3 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp toasted sesame oil
- 2 tbsp grapeseed oil
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1 1/2 tsp fresh ginger, grated
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
For the core of the salad, gather:
- 4 cups finely shredded Chinese cabbage (Nappa Cabbage)
- 1 1/2 cups finely shredded red cabbage
- 1 cup finely julienned carrots
- 2 cups shredded chicken
- 1/2 cup finely sliced shallots or scallions
Lastly, enhance your salad with garnishes:
- 1/2 to 1 cup crunchy noodles
- 1 – 2 tsp sesame seeds
For a variation, try this chopped salad that also features delicious combinations of vegetables. Combining these ingredients will result in a refreshing Chinese chicken salad that impresses at any gathering!
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Chinese Chicken Salad
- Total Time: 50
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This vibrant Chinese Chicken Salad combines crispy vegetables with tender chicken and a flavorful Asian dressing, perfect for a refreshing meal.
Ingredients
2 tbsp light soy sauce
3 tbsp rice vinegar
1 tbsp sesame oil
2 tbsp grapeseed oil
1 tsp sugar
1 1/2 tsp fresh ginger
1 garlic clove
1/2 tsp black pepper
4 cups Chinese cabbage
1 1/2 cups red cabbage
1 cup carrot
2 cups chicken
1/2 cup shallots
1/2 to 1 cup crunchy noodles
1 – 2 tsp sesame seeds
Instructions
- In a bowl, whisk together the light soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, grapeseed oil, sugar, ginger, garlic, and black pepper to make the dressing.
- In a large bowl, combine the Chinese cabbage, red cabbage, carrot, chicken, and shallots.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine well.
- Top with crunchy noodles and sesame seeds before serving.
Notes
For extra flavor, let the salad sit for about 10 minutes after dressing it to allow the flavors to meld.
- Prep Time: 20
- Cook Time: 30
- Category: Salad
- Method: baking
- Cuisine: Chinese
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 620 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 14 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 27 g
- Cholesterol: 70 mg
Keywords: Chinese Chicken Salad, salad recipe, Asian dressing, healthy chicken salad
How to Prepare Chinese Chicken Salad:
To make a delicious Chinese chicken salad, start by preparing the Asian dressing. In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons of light soy sauce, 3 tablespoons of rice vinegar, 1 tablespoon of toasted sesame oil, and 2 tablespoons of grapeseed oil. Add 1 teaspoon of sugar, 1.5 teaspoons of freshly grated ginger, and 1 minced garlic clove. Finally, stir in ½ teaspoon of black pepper and set the dressing aside.
Next, assemble the salad by tossing together 4 cups of finely shredded Chinese cabbage, 1.5 cups of red cabbage, and 1 cup of julienned carrots. Gently fold in 2 cups of shredded chicken and ½ cup of finely sliced scallions. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and mix well, ensuring it is evenly coated. For an added crunch, sprinkle ½ to 1 cup of crunchy noodles and 1 to 2 teaspoons of sesame seeds on top. This refreshing salad pairs wonderfully with dishes like Hawaiian Teriyaki Chicken. For a detailed recipe and tips, you can check out this Chinese chicken salad guide. Enjoy your vibrant and healthy meal!
Health Benefits of Chinese Chicken Salad:
Chinese Chicken Salad offers a delightful blend of flavors and textures while delivering numerous health benefits. Packed with lean chicken, fresh vegetables, and a zesty dressing, this dish is rich in protein and essential nutrients. The chicken component supports muscle repair and boosts immunity, making it a great post-workout meal. Fresh veggies like cabbage, carrots, and bell peppers provide fiber and antioxidants, which aid digestion and promote healthy skin.
Moreover, the vibrant dressing usually contains sesame oil and vinegar, which can enhance heart health by improving cholesterol levels. Another advantage is the versatility of this salad. For a different twist, consider trying a sweet and spicy flavor profile with a refreshing touch by exploring recipes like Sweet and Spicy Pineapple Cowboy Candy Chicken, which you can find here. Eating such salads not only nourishes your body but also satisfies your taste buds, making it an enticing addition to your meal rotation. Enjoy a fulfilling dish brimming with health benefits!
Serving Suggestions for Chinese Chicken Salad:
When it comes to serving Chinese chicken salad, presentation is key. Start by arranging the salad on individual plates for a beautiful, restaurant-style look. Garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions to enhance both flavor and visual appeal. This refreshing dish pairs wonderfully with a light citrus dressing, enhancing the crunchy textures and flavors.
For a heartier meal, consider serving your Chinese chicken salad alongside grilled proteins, like teriyaki chicken, found in the Hawaiian Teriyaki Chicken recipe. You can also serve it with a side of crispy spring rolls for a delightful contrast.
Additionally, consider pairing this dish with a light beverage, such as green tea or a crisp white wine, to complement the flavors. For a family-style gathering, serve in a large bowl and let guests help themselves. This makes for a more interactive meal and invites everyone to enjoy the freshness of this delicious salad!
Storage Tips for Chinese Chicken Salad:
To keep your Chinese chicken salad fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Ideally, consume within 2-3 days to ensure optimal taste and texture. If you have leftover grilled chicken, consider using it in a different dish, such as a delicious buffalo chicken bowl, for variety. Always check for freshness before serving!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
What are the key ingredients in a Chinese Chicken Salad?
The essence of Chinese Chicken Salad lies in its vibrant combination of ingredients. Including grilled chicken, crunchy cabbage, carrots, and cucumbers creates a refreshing base. Tossing in crispy wonton strips adds texture, while a sesame-ginger dressing ties all flavors together beautifully.
Is Chinese Chicken Salad healthy?
Absolutely! Chinese Chicken Salad is typically light and packed with nutrients. The fresh vegetables contribute vitamins, while the lean protein from chicken makes it a filling meal option. For those watching calories, opting for a lighter dressing can enhance its health benefits.
Can I make a vegetarian version of Chinese Chicken Salad?
Certainly! To create a vegetarian alternative, simply replace the chicken with tofu or tempeh for protein. You can also enhance the flavor with additional veggies, nuts, or seeds, making it a satisfying dish.
What dressing pairs best with Chinese Chicken Salad?
A classic sesame-ginger dressing complements this dish perfectly. Combine soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, and a hint of honey for balanced flavor. For a zesty twist, consider trying it with a sweet-and-spicy vinaigrette.
How can I incorporate other recipes with chicken?
For more delicious chicken recipes, check out Sweet Spicy Pineapple Cowboy Candy Chicken. It’s a great way to explore various chicken preparations that can complement the flavors of a Chinese Chicken Salad.
Can I prepare Chinese Chicken Salad in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the salad ahead of time. However, it’s advisable to keep the dressing separate until just before serving to prevent the ingredients from becoming soggy, ensuring every bite remains crisp and fresh.