Crunchy Asian Chicken Salad

Name: Crunchy Asian Chicken Salad
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 cups shredded green cabbage; 2 cups shredded carrots; 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced; 1 cup snap peas, trimmed; 2 grilled chicken breasts, sliced; 1/4 cup soy sauce; 2 tablespoons rice vinegar; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 1 tablespoon honey; 1 teaspoon grated ginger; 1 teaspoon minced garlic; 2 tablespoons sesame seeds

Highlighted under: Festive Favorites

I can’t get enough of this Crunchy Asian Chicken Salad! The combination of fresh vegetables, juicy chicken, and a tangy dressing is simply irresistible. Each crunch is a burst of flavor, making it perfect for both weeknight dinners and lunch prep. I love the way the textures come together, from the crisp cabbage to the tender grilled chicken. Plus, it’s a great way to use up any leftover rotisserie chicken. Trust me, you’ll want this vibrant salad on repeat!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-13T11:35:30.880Z

Creating this Crunchy Asian Chicken Salad was a delightful experience for me. I wanted something that was not only health-conscious but also packed with flavor and texture. I experimented with various dressings and settled on a sesame soy vinaigrette that complements the salad beautifully. The grilled chicken adds a tender richness without weighing it down, balancing perfectly with the crispy vegetables.

One key tip I discovered while making this salad is to let the dressing sit for a few minutes before tossing it with the greens. This allows the flavors to meld, enhancing the overall taste of the dish. Each bite is a balanced harmony of crunch and flavor that everyone will love!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Crisp vegetables provide a refreshing crunch in every bite
Savory grilled chicken adds protein and heartiness
Tangy sesame dressing elevates the flavor profile
Perfectly customizable to fit your taste preferences

      

Balancing Textures and Flavors

The beauty of the Crunchy Asian Chicken Salad lies in its diverse textures and flavors. The crispness of the shredded cabbage and carrots creates a delightful contrast to the tender grilled chicken. When you bite into the snap peas, they should provide a satisfying snap that complements the other ingredients, enhancing the overall eating experience. Be sure to choose fresh, vibrant vegetables to ensure maximum crunch and flavor.

For those who like their salads even crunchier, consider adding crushed peanuts or crispy wonton strips for added texture. These toppings not only elevate the crunch factor but also introduce a new flavor dimension thanks to their nutty profiles. Experimenting with different vegetable combinations, like adding radishes or cucumber, can also yield a delicious variation that keeps the salad exciting.

Perfecting the Dressing

The dressing is a key element that ties this salad together, offering a burst of flavor with every bite. When whisking the ingredients, aim for a smooth, glossy consistency, which indicates proper emulsification. If your dressing feels too salty, consider adding more honey or a splash of water to balance the flavors. Ensure the honey is fully incorporated by whisking vigorously until it dissolves completely.

If you're looking for a lower-sodium alternative, try using low-sodium soy sauce or tamari. For a gluten-free option, tamari is a delicious substitute. Additionally, experiment with citrus juices, such as lime or orange, to brighten the dressing. This not only enhances the flavor profile but adds a refreshing tang that complements the vegetables beautifully.

Ingredients

Salad Base

4 cups shredded green cabbage
2 cups shredded carrots
1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
1 cup snap peas, trimmed
2 grilled chicken breasts, sliced

Dressing

1/4 cup soy sauce
2 tablespoons rice vinegar
1 tablespoon sesame oil
1 tablespoon honey
1 teaspoon grated ginger
1 teaspoon minced garlic
2 tablespoons sesame seeds

Instructions

Directions

Prepare Vegetables

In a large bowl, combine the shredded cabbage, carrots, red bell pepper, and snap peas. Toss gently to mix.

Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, honey, grated ginger, and minced garlic until well combined.

Combine Salad and Chicken

Add the sliced grilled chicken to the bowl with vegetables. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly.

Serve

Sprinkle sesame seeds on top just before serving. Enjoy your Crunchy Asian Chicken Salad fresh!

Enjoy your salad!

Pro Tips

Feel free to substitute the proteins or vegetables based on your preference or what you have on hand. This salad can also be made ahead and stored in the fridge, just keep the dressing separate until ready to serve to maintain the crunch.

Make-Ahead Tips

This Crunchy Asian Chicken Salad is an excellent choice for meal prep. You can prepare the salad base a day in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To maintain the crunchiness of the vegetables, consider adding the dressing just before serving. This will prevent sogginess and keep your salad looking fresh and appealing.

If you're using leftover rotisserie chicken, shred it ahead of time and store it in a separate container. It will keep well in the fridge for up to three days. For a more substantial meal, serve the salad over a bed of cooked quinoa or brown rice, which you can also prepare in advance.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

If you happen to have leftovers, store the salad and the dressing separately. Place the salad in an airtight container; it should last for up to two days. For the dressing, store it in a sealed jar in the fridge, where it can be used for other dishes or salads throughout the week. When you're ready to serve the leftovers, give everything a good shake and toss to refresh the flavors.

For an impressive presentation, serve the salad in individual bowls topped with additional grilled chicken slices, fresh herbs, or some sliced avocado for creaminess. This not only elevates the dish aesthetically but also adds more nutrients, making it a wholesome option for your family or guests.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the salad in advance, but it's best to keep the dressing separate until you're ready to serve to maintain crunch.

→ What can I substitute for the grilled chicken?

Tofu or shrimp are great substitutes for the grilled chicken. You can also leave it out for a vegetarian option.

→ How long will leftovers last?

Leftovers can last in the fridge for up to 2 days, but the salad will lose some of its crunch.

→ Can I use a different dressing?

Absolutely! Feel free to try different dressings like a peanut sauce or a citrus vinaigrette if you prefer.