There’s something so refreshing about a good Asian Chicken Salad that just brightens my day! I remember the first time I tried it at a cozy little restaurant in my neighborhood. The crunch of the vegetables, the tender chicken, and the tangy dressing combined in a way that felt like a hug in a bowl. Ever since that day, I’ve been on a mission to recreate it at home, and I think I’ve finally nailed it!
What I love most about this salad is its versatility. You can whip it up for a quick lunch, serve it as a light dinner, or even bring it to gatherings as a crowd-pleaser. It’s packed with flavor and texture, and the vibrant colors make it a feast for the eyes as well as the stomach. Plus, it’s a great way to use up any leftover chicken you have on hand!
What’s in Asian Chicken Salad?
Cooked Chicken: The star of the show! I prefer using grilled chicken for that smoky flavor, but rotisserie chicken works just as well to save on time.
Mixed Greens: A blend of greens like romaine, spinach, and arugula creates a lovely base. Fresh and crisp greens bring in a nice crunch!
Carrots: Shredded carrots add sweetness and a pop of color. Baby carrots are great for quick chopping!
Red Bell Pepper: Sweet and crunchy, red bell peppers bring in a beautiful hue and a slight crunch.
Cabbage: Shredded green or purple cabbage adds a nice crunch and a fabulous texture to the salad.
Cilantro: This herb adds a burst of freshness. I know cilantro can be a polarizing ingredient, so feel free to leave it out if it’s not your jam.
Sesame Seeds: Toasted sesame seeds add a nutty flavor and a little extra crunch.
Asian Dressing: A mix of soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, and sesame oil, this dressing ties everything together with a delightful zing.
Is Asian Chicken Salad Good for You?
Absolutely! This dish packs a nutritional punch.
Cooked Chicken: A fantastic source of lean protein, it helps keep you feeling full and satisfied.
Mixed Greens: These nutrient-rich greens are low in calories but high in vitamins A, C, and K.
Carrots: They are known for their beta-carotene, which is excellent for your eyesight.
However, keep in mind that the dressing can add a fair amount of sodium, especially if you’re sensitive to salt. You can always use low-sodium soy sauce or make your own dressing to better control your intake.
Ingredients List
– 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or chopped)
– 4 cups mixed greens
– 1 cup shredded carrots
– 1 red bell pepper (thinly sliced)
– 1 cup cabbage (shredded)
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro (optional)
– 2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds
For the dressing:
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
This recipe serves about 4 hungry friends or 2 for a couple of lunches!
How to Make Asian Chicken Salad?
1. In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, shredded carrots, sliced red bell pepper, shredded cabbage, and chopped chicken.
2. If using, add the cilantro and sprinkle the sesame seeds over the top.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, and sesame oil until combined.
4. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine all the ingredients.
5. Serve immediately, or for best flavor, let the salad sit for about 10 minutes to allow the dressing to soak into the chicken and greens.
Serving Suggestions for the Perfect Bowl
Feel like jazzing it up a bit? Add some crunchy chow mein noodles on top for extra texture, or throw in some sliced almonds for a nutty crunch. You can also serve this salad alongside some grilled shrimp or roasted tofu for a protein-packed meal. And let’s not forget; it’s perfect for meal prep! Just keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat.
Making your own version of an Asian Chicken Salad is a wonderful way to have fun in the kitchen and make something delicious. I hope you give this recipe a try! It’s easy, fresh, and so customizable. Don’t forget to share your experience with me; I’d love to hear how it turns out! Enjoy!
