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Fresh Crunchy Asian Sesame Chicken Salad

fresh crunchy asian sesame chicken salad - featured image

A quick and easy salad featuring crisp cabbage, tender grilled chicken, and a nutty sesame dressing, perfect for a fresh and satisfying lunch or light dinner.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups green cabbage, thinly sliced
  • 1 cup red cabbage, thinly sliced
  • 1 cup shredded carrots
  • 3 green onions, sliced thin
  • 1 cup cooked chicken breast, shredded or chopped
  • 1/2 cup toasted sliced almonds or chopped peanuts
  • 1/2 cup crispy wonton strips (optional)
  • 3 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons toasted sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds

Instructions

  1. Grill or pan-sear 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts until cooked through and lightly browned, about 6-7 minutes per side. Let rest 5 minutes, then shred or chop into bite-sized pieces.
  2. Thinly slice green and red cabbage. Shred carrots and slice green onions thinly. Combine all vegetables in a large mixing bowl.
  3. In a small bowl or jar, combine soy sauce, toasted sesame oil, rice vinegar, honey, grated ginger, and minced garlic. Whisk or shake vigorously until well blended.
  4. Add shredded chicken to the bowl with vegetables. Pour the dressing over and toss gently but thoroughly until everything is evenly coated.
  5. Sprinkle toasted sliced almonds or chopped peanuts and crispy wonton strips on top. Toss lightly again if desired or leave on top for texture contrast.
  6. Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds and extra green onions if desired. Serve immediately for the freshest crunch.

Notes

Add wonton strips just before serving to maintain crunch. Use low-sodium soy sauce to control saltiness. Dressing can be made up to 3 days ahead and stored refrigerated. For gluten-free, replace soy sauce with tamari and omit wonton strips or use gluten-free alternatives. Chicken can be swapped with tofu or shrimp. Toss salad just before serving to keep textures fresh.

Nutrition

Keywords: Asian chicken salad, sesame chicken salad, crunchy salad, healthy lunch, quick salad recipe, sesame dressing, grilled chicken salad