Crisp, refreshing, and packed with bold flavors, this Chinese Chicken Salad is a vibrant mix of textures and tastes that bring a little culinary adventure to your plate. Inspired by Asian street markets and classic American-Chinese flavors, this dish blends crunchy cabbage, tender chicken, and a sesame dressing that’s both savory and slightly sweet.
It’s the perfect balance of fresh and indulgent—light enough for lunch but satisfying enough for dinner. This salad pairs exceptionally well with Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken or Qdoba Chicken, adding extra layers of smoky-sweet and grilled flavors to the mix.
The charred caramelization of teriyaki-glazed chicken or the bold spice rub of Qdoba’s grilled version enhances the tangy dressing and crisp veggies. Think of it as a fusion moment—mixing fast-casual favorites with a homemade touch for an easy, restaurant-quality meal.
If you love playing with textures and flavors, this recipe invites endless experimentation. Swap out romaine for napa cabbage, toss in some crispy wonton strips, or drizzle extra chili oil for a fiery kick.
Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week or making a quick weeknight dinner, this salad is endlessly adaptable. Grab your chopsticks (or a fork—no judgment here) and dive into a bowl of crisp, umami-rich goodness!
Flavor Bomb Alert!
- Crunch Factor Perfection – That mix of crisp cabbage, toasted nuts, and crunchy wonton strips? It’s got the texture game on lock. If you love contrast in your bites, this is it.
- Takeout-Level Taste, Homemade Ease – I first made this to recreate my favorite restaurant salads, and honestly? It’s fresher, lighter, and just as satisfying. Plus, no waiting on delivery.
- Pairs with Everything – Seriously, it works as a main meal or a side. The first time I had it alongside Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken, I knew I’d found the perfect match.
- Customizable for Every Mood – Some days I add shredded carrots, others I swap the dressing for a chili-lime vinaigrette. It’s the kind of recipe that adapts to you.
- Healthy Without Feeling Like “Diet Food” – Loaded with lean protein and fiber-rich veggies, this salad keeps me full without weighing me down. Flavor-packed and satisfying—what more could you want?
Chinese Chicken Salad Recipe
Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Sharp knife
- Small jar with a lid (for dressing)
- Measuring spoons
- Cutting board
- Tongs or salad servers
Ingredients
Salad
- 2 cups chicken , shredded
- 4 cups Chinese cabbage (Nappa Cabbage) finely shredded
- ½ cup shallots/scallions finely sliced on the diagonal
- 1 cup carrot finely julienned
- 1½ cups red cabbage finely shredded
Asian Dressing
- 1 tbsp sesame oil (toasted)
- 2 tbsp light soy sauce
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1½ tsp fresh ginger , grated or very finely chopped
- 3 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 garlic clove minced
- 1 tsp sugar
- 2 tbsp grapeseed oil
Garnishes
- 2 tsp sesame seeds
- 1 cup crunchy noodles
Instructions
- Add all dressing ingredients to a jar, seal it, and shake well.
- Let it sit for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to develop.
- Meanwhile, in a large bowl, combine the salad ingredients with half of the crunchy noodles.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss everything together to coat evenly.
- Divide into serving bowls, then finish with an extra sprinkle of crunchy noodles and sesame seeds.
- Serve right away.
Notes
- Shaking the dressing instead of whisking ensures better emulsification, making it smoother and well-balanced.
- If you prefer extra crunch, lightly toast the sesame seeds before sprinkling them on top.
| Nutrition | Value |
| Calories | 412kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 17.3g |
| Fibre | 3.6g |
| Fat | 23.2g |
| Protein | 32.3g |
| Cholesterol | 72g |
