This Asian Chicken Crunch Salad is a tasty mix of juicy chicken, crunchy cabbage, and colorful veggies. Toss it all with a yummy sesame dressing for a fresh kick!
I love how the crispy toppings add just the right crunch. It’s perfect for busy days when I want something healthy and satisfying without much fuss. Yum! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Green and Red Cabbage: These provide great crunch and vibrant color. If you don’t have both, you could use just one type of cabbage. Napa cabbage is also a nice alternative if you’re looking for a softer texture.
Carrots: Shredded carrots add sweetness and color. No fresh carrots? Try using pre-packaged coleslaw mix, which usually includes carrots, or even sliced bell peppers for a different flavor.
Cooked Chicken: Grilled or roasted chicken is ideal for this salad. If you’re vegetarian, you can replace it with grilled tofu or chickpeas for a protein boost.
Edamame: This ingredient contributes a nice bite. If edamame isn’t available, you can substitute with peas or skip it entirely for a lighter version.
Sliced Almonds: They add a lovely crunch. Feel free to use other nuts like cashews or sunflower seeds. For a nut-free option, pumpkin seeds work too.
Dressing Ingredients: You can substitute soy sauce with low-sodium soy sauce or tamari for a gluten-free option. Maple syrup can easily replace honey if you want a vegan dressing.
How Do I Make Sure My Salad Tastes Great?
Tossing the ingredients with the dressing is key to flavor. Here’s how to ensure you get that well-balanced taste:
- Mix the dressing well. Whisk it until it’s fully combined. This ensures that all the flavors meld together.
- Toss gently. When adding the dressing to the salad, use a soft touch to prevent breaking delicate ingredients.
- Chill before serving. Letting the salad sit for at least 30 minutes allows the flavors to meld beautifully. It’s worth the wait!
- Add chow mein noodles right before serving for a crunchy topping. This way they won’t get soggy.
How to Make Asian Chicken Crunch Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 2 cups shredded green cabbage
- 2 cups shredded red cabbage
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 cup cooked chicken, diced (grilled or roasted)
- 1/2 cup unsalted edamame, shelled
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/4 cup green onions, sliced
- 1/2 cup chow mein noodles (optional for added crunch)
For the Dressing:
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Sriracha or chili paste (optional, for spice)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Asian Chicken Crunch Salad will take about 15 minutes to prepare. If you want the flavors to meld together, you can chill it for 30 minutes, making it a fantastic dish for gatherings or a quick weeknight meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Salad Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded green and red cabbage, shredded carrots, sliced red bell pepper, diced cooked chicken, shelled edamame, sliced almonds, chopped cilantro, and sliced green onions. Stir them together gently until everything is mixed well.
2. Make the Dressing:
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, honey (or maple syrup), grated ginger, minced garlic, and Sriracha together until everything is combined. This dressing is what will bring all the flavors together!
3. Combine the Salad and Dressing:
Pour the dressing over your salad mixture. Using a large spoon, toss everything gently to make sure all the ingredients are coated evenly. This is where the magic happens!
4. Add Some Crunch:
If you’d like some extra crunch, sprinkle the chow mein noodles on top just before serving. They add a delightful texture to the salad.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
You can serve this salad right away, or for even better flavor, let it chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes before serving. Enjoy your refreshing Asian Chicken Crunch Salad!
Can I Use Store-Bought Rotisserie Chicken?
Absolutely! Store-bought rotisserie chicken is a convenient option that works perfectly in this salad. Just shred or dice the chicken as needed and mix it in with the other ingredients. It adds a delicious flavor and saves time!
Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
Yes, you can easily make this salad vegan by omitting the chicken and replacing it with tofu or tempeh for added protein. Additionally, ensure to use maple syrup instead of honey in the dressing. It will still taste delicious!
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just keep in mind that the chow mein noodles may lose their crunch, so you can add those fresh when serving leftovers!
Can I Use Other Vegetables or Nuts?
Definitely! Feel free to customize this salad with other veggies like cucumber, radishes, or snap peas. For nuts, cashews or walnuts would also be great substitutes for almonds. Just make sure to keep the flavor profile in mind!
