Asian Chicken Salad

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Asian Chicken Salad is a crunchy, vibrant, and flavorful dish that’s light yet satisfying. With tender shredded chicken, crisp veggies, and a tangy sesame-ginger dressing, it’s perfect for lunches, picnics, or quick dinners. This salad brings bold, fresh textures and tastes together in every bite and can easily be customized to suit your preferences.

ingredients

this Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

cooked shredded chicken (grilled or rotisserie)shredded green or napa cabbagecarrots (julienned or shredded)red bell pepper (thinly sliced)cucumber (sliced or julienned)green onions (sliced)fresh cilantrochopped almonds or sliced almondsthin rice noodles or crispy wonton strips (optional)toppings: sesame seeds, mandarin oranges (optional)

For the dressing:
soy saucerice vinegarhoney or maplesesame oilvegetable oilfresh garlic (minced)fresh ginger (grated)lime juice (optional)sriracha or red pepper flakes (optional)

directions

In a small bowl or jar, whisk together all dressing ingredients until smooth and well combined.

In a large salad bowl, combine shredded chicken, cabbage, carrots, bell pepper, cucumber, and green onions.

Add cilantro, almonds, and optional toppings like sesame seeds or mandarin oranges.

Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.

Top with rice noodles or wonton strips if using and serve immediately.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 4–6 servings.
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Total time: 20 minutes

Variations

Use shredded rotisserie chicken for a quick prep.
Swap almonds for cashews or peanuts.
Add edamame or snap peas for extra veggies.
Use a store-bought sesame dressing for convenience.

storage/reheating

Store undressed salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Keep dressing separate until ready to serve to maintain crunch.
Not suitable for freezing.

FAQs

Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, store components separately and toss with dressing just before serving.

What kind of chicken works best?
Grilled, poached, or rotisserie chicken all work great.

Is this salad gluten-free?
Use tamari instead of soy sauce and gluten-free noodles if needed.

Can I make it vegetarian?
Omit chicken and add tofu, tempeh, or extra veggies.

How do I keep the salad crunchy?
Toss dressing just before serving and store components separately.

Can I use pre-cut coleslaw mix?
Yes, it’s a convenient substitute for cabbage and carrots.

Is the dressing spicy?
Only if you add sriracha or chili flakes—totally customizable.

Can I add fruit?
Yes, mandarin oranges or pineapple chunks add a sweet contrast.

How long does the dressing last?
Up to 1 week in the fridge in a sealed jar.

Can I add noodles?
Yes, try rice noodles or ramen for texture and heartiness.

Conclusion

Asian Chicken Salad is a fresh, colorful, and versatile meal that’s packed with protein, crunch, and bold flavor. Whether you’re prepping lunch or hosting a light dinner, this easy salad delivers taste and nutrition in every bite.

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