Name: Chinese Chicken Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Chinese
Ingredients: Cooked chicken (shredded or chopped); Napa cabbage (shredded); Red cabbage (shredded); Carrots (julienned or shredded); Green onions (sliced); Mandarin oranges (optional); Almonds or cashews (toasted); Chow mein noodles or crispy wonton strips; Soy sauce; Rice vinegar; Sesame oil; Honey or sugar; Fresh ginger (grated); Garlic (minced); Lime juice; Optional: chili flakes or sriracha for heat

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Refreshing and crunchy: A delightful mix of textures.
Easy to prepare: Quick cooking and assembly.
Versatile ingredients: Customize with your favorite veggies or proteins.
Flavorful dressing: Balanced sweet, tangy, and savory notes.
Perfect for meal prep: Holds up well refrigerated.

Ingredients

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

Cooked chicken (shredded or chopped)
Napa cabbage (shredded)
Red cabbage (shredded)
Carrots (julienned or shredded)
Green onions (sliced)
Mandarin oranges (optional)
Almonds or cashews (toasted)
Chow mein noodles or crispy wonton strips

For the Dressing:

Soy sauce
Rice vinegar
Sesame oil
Honey or sugar
Fresh ginger (grated)
Garlic (minced)
Lime juice
Optional: chili flakes or sriracha for heat

Directions

Prepare vegetables and chicken: In a large bowl, combine shredded chicken, napa and red cabbage, carrots, and green onions.
Make dressing: Whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, honey, grated ginger, garlic, and lime juice in a small bowl.
Toss salad: Pour dressing over salad and toss to coat evenly.
Add crunch and fruit: Just before serving, add toasted nuts, chow mein noodles or wonton strips, and mandarin orange segments if using.
Serve immediately: Enjoy fresh for the best texture and flavor.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4-6
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes (for chicken if cooking fresh)
Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

Vegetarian: Omit chicken or replace with tofu.
Protein swap: Use rotisserie chicken, grilled shrimp,
Add herbs: Include cilantro or mint for extra freshness.
Dressing tweak: Add peanut butter for a creamy Thai-inspired dressing.
Spicy version: Add sriracha or red pepper flakes to dressing.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store components separately in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheating: Best served cold or at room temperature; reheat chicken separately if desired.
Meal prep: Assemble salad just before serving to maintain crispness.

FAQs

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes, rotisserie or leftover chicken works great.

How do I keep the noodles crunchy?

Add crispy noodles just before serving.

Can I make this salad ahead?

Prepare ingredients ahead but toss together just before eating.

Is this salad gluten-free?

Use gluten-free soy sauce and noodles.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Not recommended due to fresh vegetables and dressing.

What can I substitute for napa cabbage?

Use green cabbage or romaine lettuce.

How spicy is the dressing?

Mild by default; adjust heat with sriracha or chili flakes.

Can I add fruit?

Mandarin oranges or sliced apples add sweetness.

What nuts work best?

Almonds, cashews, or peanuts are excellent.

Is this salad kid-friendly?

Yes, mild flavors and crunchy texture appeal to kids.

Conclusion

Chinese Chicken Salad is a crisp, flavorful, and easy-to-make dish that combines fresh vegetables, tender chicken, and a zesty dressing for a satisfying meal. Perfect for quick lunches or dinner, it’s a versatile salad that brings vibrant Asian flavors to your table.