Asian Chicken Chopped Salad

Asian Chicken Chopped Salad is a refreshing, vibrant dish that combines crisp vegetables, tender chicken, and a flavorful sesame-ginger dressing. It’s a wholesome meal that’s easy to prepare and packed with nutrients, making it an ideal choice for lunch or a light dinner. With its bold flavors and crunchy textures, this salad delivers both taste and nutrition in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This salad is an excellent choice for those seeking a light yet satisfying meal. It’s easy to customize based on your taste preferences or dietary needs and makes for a perfect make-ahead lunch. The sesame-ginger dressing adds a distinct flavor profile that complements the crunchy vegetables and juicy chicken. Plus, it’s a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet while still enjoying a protein-rich meal.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Cooked chicken breast, shredded or chopped

• Napa cabbage, thinly sliced

• Red cabbage, thinly sliced

• Carrots, julienned or shredded

• Red bell pepper, thinly sliced

• Cucumber, chopped

• Green onions, chopped

• Cilantro, chopped

• Slivered almonds or chopped peanuts

• Wonton strips or crispy noodles (optional)

For the dressing:

• Soy sauce

• Rice vinegar

• Sesame oil

• Olive oil or neutral oil

• Honey or maple syrup

• Fresh ginger, grated

• Garlic, minced

• Lime juice

• Salt and pepper to taste

directions

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine napa cabbage, red cabbage, carrots, bell pepper, cucumber, green onions, and cilantro.

2. Add the cooked chicken to the bowl and toss gently to combine.

3. In a separate small bowl or jar, whisk together all the dressing ingredients until well blended.

4. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss until everything is evenly coated.

5. Sprinkle slivered almonds or peanuts and wonton strips on top just before serving for added crunch.

6. Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to let the flavors meld.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 and takes approximately 20 minutes to prepare.

Variations

• Vegetarian option: Substitute chicken with tofu or edamame.

• Spicy version: Add sliced jalapeños or a dash of sriracha to the dressing.

• Low-carb: Omit the wonton strips and reduce the honey in the dressing.

• Different proteins: Use grilled shrimp, beef, or rotisserie chicken for variety.

• Nut-free: Use sunflower seeds or omit the nuts altogether.

storage/reheating

Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. If making in advance, keep the dressing separate and toss with the salad just before serving to maintain the crunch of the vegetables. Reheating is not recommended, as this is a cold salad.

FAQs

What kind of chicken works best for this salad?

Grilled, baked, or rotisserie chicken breast works best. Make sure it is well-seasoned and fully cooked.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the salad ingredients in advance, but store the dressing separately and combine before serving.

Is this salad gluten-free?

It can be made gluten-free by using tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce and ensuring other ingredients are gluten-free.

What can I use instead of napa cabbage?

You can use green cabbage or a coleslaw mix as an alternative.

How can I make the salad more filling?

Add avocado, quinoa, or more protein like hard-boiled eggs to make it more substantial.

Can I use pre-packaged salad mix?

Yes, a chopped salad blend can save time and works well in this recipe.

What dressing alternatives can I use?

A peanut dressing or miso-ginger dressing also pairs nicely with this salad.

How long does the dressing last?

The homemade dressing can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days in a sealed container.

Are there any low-sugar options for the dressing?

You can reduce or omit the honey/maple syrup or use a sugar-free alternative.

Can I add fruit to the salad?

Yes, mandarin oranges or mango slices can add a nice sweet contrast.

Conclusion

Asian Chicken Chopped Salad is a flavorful, versatile dish that suits a variety of dietary preferences and meal occasions. With a crisp mix of vegetables, protein-rich chicken, and a tangy sesame-ginger dressing, this salad offers both nutrition and taste. Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week or assembling a quick dinner, this recipe is a go-to option for a healthy and delicious meal

Print