This crunchy Chinese Chicken Salad is a tasty mix of tender chicken, fresh veggies, and crisp noodles. It’s dressed in a light, tangy sauce that makes it super refreshing!
You’ll love how quick it is to whip up—perfect for lunch or a light dinner. Plus, if you like a little crunch, those crispy noodles are a must-have! Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shredded Chicken: This salad shines with cooked chicken breast. You could use rotisserie chicken for a quick option or even grilled chicken thighs for added flavor.
Mixed Greens: A mix of romaine and red cabbage gives great crunch and color. If you don’t have these, feel free to substitute with spinach or arugula.
Carrots: Fresh shredded carrots add sweetness. You can use pre-shredded bagged carrots or even use bell peppers for a different crunch.
Mandarin Oranges: These add a nice sweet touch. If you can’t find canned mandarins, fresh orange segments work well, or use pineapple for a tropical twist.
Sesame Oil: This oil gives a distinct flavor to the salad. If you’re looking for a different taste, you can try using olive oil blended with some sesame seeds.
How Do I Make the Dressing Extra Flavorful?
Making the dressing is simple but crucial for the salad’s taste. The balance of ingredients can really elevate this dish. Here’s how to do it:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, and sweetener (honey or sugar).
- Add a pinch of salt and pepper. Adjust to taste; more soy for saltiness or honey for sweetness can be great tweaks.
- If you like a bit of spice, consider adding a splash of soy sauce or a dash of chili flakes!
How to Make Chinese Chicken Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken breast
- 4 cups mixed greens (such as romaine and red cabbage), chopped
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1 can (11 oz) mandarin oranges, drained
- 1/2 cup green onions, sliced
- 1/2 cup sliced almonds or peanuts
- 1/4 cup sesame seeds
For the Dressing:
- 1/3 cup rice vinegar
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tbsp honey or sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Garnish:
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing Chinese Chicken Salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare and can be chilled for an extra 30 minutes if you want the flavors to meld. In total, you’re looking at less than an hour from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Salad Base:
In a large bowl, combine the chopped mixed greens, cooked and shredded chicken, shredded carrots, drained mandarin oranges, and sliced green onions. Use a gentle tossing motion to mix them together without breaking the oranges.
2. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, honey or sugar, and a pinch of salt and pepper. This will create a flavorful dressing that brings all the ingredients together.
3. Combine Salad and Dressing:
Pour the dressing over the salad mixture. Toss gently to combine everything well, ensuring that the dressing evenly coats the salad ingredients.
4. Add Crunchy Toppings:
Add the sliced almonds or peanuts and sprinkle sesame seeds on top. Give the salad another light toss to mix these crunchy toppings throughout.
5. Garnish and Serve:
If you like, garnish your salad with fresh cilantro. You can serve it right away, or for an amazing flavor boost, chill it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious and refreshing Chinese Chicken Salad!
Can I Use Different Proteins in This Salad?
Absolutely! You can substitute the shredded chicken with other proteins like grilled shrimp, tofu, or even beef. Just make sure they are cooked and cut into bite-sized pieces to maintain the salad’s texture.
How Can I Make This Salad Vegetarian?
To make this salad vegetarian, simply omit the chicken and replace it with additional vegetables, chickpeas, or tofu. You can also add some sliced avocado for creaminess and extra nutrients!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Salad?
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To keep the greens crisp, store the dressing separately and toss it together just before serving.
Can I Prepare This Salad Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the salad ingredients ahead of time, just keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve. This keeps the mixed greens fresh and prevents them from wilting!
