If you’re craving a salad that’s bursting with vibrant colors, bold flavors, and an irresistible crunch, this Crunchy Asian Sesame Chicken Salad Recipe is exactly what you need. It combines tender shredded chicken with crisp Napa and purple cabbage, fresh veggies, toasted almonds, and crispy wonton strips, all tossed in a perfectly balanced sesame dressing that’s tangy, sweet, and just a little bit savory. Each bite offers a delightful medley of textures and tastes that make it more than just a salad — it’s a celebration of Asian-inspired freshness in every forkful.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple yet essential, each playing a vital role in building the amazing texture and flavor of the salad. From the crunchy crunch of wonton strips to the nutty warmth of toasted sesame seeds and almonds, every element works harmoniously to create this refreshing and satisfying dish.
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced: Provides the hearty protein base that makes this salad filling and delicious.
- 4 cups shredded Napa cabbage: Offers a tender yet crisp green crunch, adding a lovely mild flavor.
- 2 cups shredded purple cabbage: Adds vibrant color and a slightly peppery bite to brighten the dish.
- 1 cup shredded carrots: Sweetness and a beautiful orange hue, balancing the savory elements.
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced: Brings juiciness and fresh, sweet flavor with a splash of red.
- 4 green onions, sliced: Adds gentle oniony zest and freshness.
- 1/2 cup cilantro leaves, chopped: Infuses garden-fresh brightness and an aromatic punch.
- 1/3 cup sliced almonds, toasted: Introduces crunchy nutty richness to complement the veggies.
- 1 cup crispy wonton strips: The star crunch element that makes every bite fun and texturally exciting.
- 2 tablespoons sesame seeds: Boosts nuttiness and completes the Asian flavor profile.
- Dressing Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar: Brings a gentle tang that lifts the entire salad.
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce: Adds savory umami depth.
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil: Gives a toasty richness that’s pure comfort in a bowl.
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil: Balances the dressing’s texture without overpowering flavors.
- 1 tablespoon honey: Delivers natural sweetness to harmonize the tangy and savory notes.
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar: Enhances the dressing’s mellow sweetness and complexity.
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated: Adds a fresh, spicy warmth for zing.
- 1 clove garlic, minced: Provides a savory undertone that’s classic and comforting.
How to Make Crunchy Asian Sesame Chicken Salad Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Veggies and Herbs
Start by gathering your crunchy and colorful vegetables in a large bowl. Mix the shredded Napa and purple cabbage, shredded carrots, thinly sliced red bell pepper, green onions, and chopped cilantro together. This vibrant base sets the stage for the salad’s refreshing flavors and satisfying textures.
Step 2: Add Chicken and Crunchy Elements
Next, fold in the tender cooked chicken, toasted almonds, sesame seeds, and crispy wonton strips. The almonds and wonton strips bring the iconic crunch that makes this Crunchy Asian Sesame Chicken Salad Recipe so enjoyable. The chicken adds heartiness without weighing the salad down.
Step 3: Whisk the Dressing to Perfection
In a small bowl or jar, combine rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, vegetable oil, honey, brown sugar, grated ginger, and minced garlic. Whisk everything vigorously until the mixture is smooth and well blended. This dressing is the magic that ties all the fresh ingredients together with a harmonious burst of sweet, tangy, and nutty flavors.
Step 4: Toss and Coat the Salad
Pour the luscious dressing over the salad and toss thoroughly so that every colorful morsel is coated with flavor. This step is critical to infuse the crisp veggies and protein with that irresistible dressing that makes each bite exciting and fresh.
Step 5: Serve Immediately
For the best taste and crunchy texture, serve the salad immediately. This ensures you get to enjoy the full spectrum of textures, from crispy to tender. It’s a perfect dish for a quick lunch, light dinner, or a welcome addition to any gathering.
How to Serve Crunchy Asian Sesame Chicken Salad Recipe
Garnishes
Elevate your salad with a sprinkle of extra toasted sesame seeds or chopped fresh cilantro on top. A few lime wedges on the side also add a zesty brightness that your guests will love, enhancing the overall freshness and flavor complexity.
Side Dishes
This salad pairs beautifully with some simple jasmine rice or steamed dumplings for a fuller meal. Alternatively, light miso soup or edamame beans are excellent companions that echo the Asian-inspired theme without overpowering the main salad.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the salad in individual lettuce cups or sturdy Napa cabbage leaves as edible bowls. Layering it in clear glass jars makes for a stunning visual treat, perfect for picnics or packed lunches where you want to impress with both taste and presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, keep the salad and dressing separate for best results. Store the salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days to preserve the crunchy textures. When ready to eat, toss them back together with the dressing for freshness.
Freezing
Because of the fresh vegetables and crispy elements, this Crunchy Asian Sesame Chicken Salad Recipe is not suitable for freezing. Freezing would damage the texture and freshness, so it’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated briefly.
Reheating
This salad is best served cold or at room temperature. The cooked chicken can be gently warmed separately if you prefer, but toss it with the cold veggies and dressing just before serving to keep that signature crunch alive.
FAQs
Can I use a different protein instead of chicken?
Absolutely! Grilled shrimp, tofu, or even cooked pork would seamlessly fit into this salad. Just be sure to adjust cooking times and seasoning accordingly to keep the flavors balanced.
How can I make this salad vegetarian?
Simply omit the chicken and add extra toasted almonds or crispy tofu for protein. The dressing works perfectly without modification, ensuring your salad remains flavorful and satisfying.
Is there a gluten-free option for the wonton strips?
Yes, you can substitute crispy gluten-free crackers or toasted nuts to keep that crunch without gluten. Just make sure to check labels on all packaged ingredients for gluten content.
Can I prepare the dressing in advance?
Definitely! The dressing can be made a day ahead and kept refrigerated in a sealed container. Just whisk it again before pouring over the salad for the best emulsification and flavor blend.
What is the best way to toast the almonds?
Toast sliced almonds in a dry skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently until they turn golden brown and fragrant—this usually takes just a few minutes. Keep a close eye to prevent burning for that perfect nutty crunch.
Final Thoughts
This Crunchy Asian Sesame Chicken Salad Recipe is one of those dishes that instantly feels like a celebration of fresh, vibrant flavors and textures. It’s simple enough for busy weeknights yet special enough to impress family and friends. Trust me, once you try it, this salad will quickly become one of your go-to favorites for a healthy, delicious meal you can enjoy any time.
Print
Crunchy Asian Sesame Chicken Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Asian
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A vibrant and crunchy Asian sesame chicken salad featuring shredded chicken, mixed cabbages, fresh vegetables, toasted almonds, and crispy wonton strips, all tossed in a tangy and flavorful sesame dressing. Perfect for a light, refreshing meal with a delightful mix of textures and Asian-inspired flavors.
Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced
- 4 cups shredded Napa cabbage
- 2 cups shredded purple cabbage
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 4 green onions, sliced
- 1/2 cup cilantro leaves, chopped
- 1/3 cup sliced almonds, toasted
- 1 cup crispy wonton strips
- 2 tablespoons sesame seeds
Dressing Ingredients
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 clove garlic, minced
Instructions
- Prepare the Vegetables: In a large bowl, combine the shredded Napa cabbage, purple cabbage, shredded carrots, thinly sliced red bell pepper, sliced green onions, and chopped cilantro. Mix them gently to evenly distribute all the fresh vegetables.
- Add Protein and Crunch: Add the shredded or diced cooked chicken breast, toasted sliced almonds, sesame seeds, and crispy wonton strips to the vegetable mixture. This combination adds both protein and layers of crunchy texture to the salad.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, vegetable oil, honey, brown sugar, grated fresh ginger, and minced garlic until the mixture is smooth and well combined. This creates a tangy, sweet, and savory dressing that complements the salad perfectly.
- Toss the Salad: Pour the prepared dressing over the salad and toss everything together carefully until all ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing, ensuring balanced flavor in every bite.
- Serve Immediately: Serve the salad right away to enjoy the maximum crunch and freshness of the wonton strips and vegetables. This dish is best eaten fresh to preserve its delightful textures and vibrant flavors.
Notes
- For extra protein, add cooked shrimp or tofu as alternatives to chicken.
- Make the dressing ahead and keep refrigerated for up to 3 days; toss with salad just before serving.
- For a gluten-free version, substitute soy sauce with tamari and use gluten-free wonton strips or omit them.
- To toast almonds, dry roast them in a skillet over medium heat until lightly browned and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
- This salad is best enjoyed fresh as the wonton strips can become soggy if dressed too far in advance.
