This Quick And Easy Chinese Chicken Salad is a colorful dish filled with crunchy veggies, juicy chicken, and a tasty dressing. It’s not just fast to make; it’s fresh and satisfying!
You won’t believe how simple it is to whip this up. I love to make it for lunch, and it’s perfect for hot days when you want something light. Plus, it looks so pretty on the plate! 🥗
Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Chicken: Rotisserie chicken is a fantastic choice for this salad. It’s already cooked and full of flavor. If you don’t have rotisserie, you can use grilled or baked chicken. Even canned chicken works in a pinch!
Mixed Salad Greens: Romaine and green leaf are great, but you can swap in other greens like spinach or arugula. Just ensure they are tender and fresh!
Shredded Carrots & Red Cabbage: Both add crunch and color. If you can’t find these, shredded bell peppers or diced cucumbers can make a refreshing alternative.
Mandarin Oranges: These add sweetness, but if you’re out, diced apples or pears can provide a similar fruity contrast. Just make sure to adjust the amount of dressing if you do!
Fresh Cilantro: This is a key flavor booster. If you’re not a fan, fresh parsley or basil can work nicely instead.
Crispy Fried Onions or Shallots: These are great for texture. You can also use croutons or even toasted seeds as an alternative.
Sliced Almonds or Peanuts: If you have nut allergies, try sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for that crunch factor instead.
How Do I Properly Toss My Salad for Even Coating?
Tossing salad may sound easy, but doing it right ensures all the flavors mix well. Here’s how to get it perfect:
- Start with a large mixing bowl. This gives room to combine without spillage.
- Gently lift and turn the ingredients rather than stirring aggressively. This prevents bruising the greens.
- When adding the dressing, drizzle it around the edges for even distribution, not right in the center.
- If using toppings like crispy onions or nuts, add them last to keep their crunch.
Remember, salad is about balance. Adjust your tossing technique and seasoning as you go for the best taste!
Quick And Easy Chinese Chicken Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Salad:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works well)
- 4 cups mixed salad greens (like romaine and green leaf)
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1 cup shredded red cabbage
- 1 cup canned mandarin oranges, drained
- 1/2 cup green onions, sliced
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro leaves, chopped
- 1/4 cup crispy fried onions or shallots
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds or peanuts
For The Dressing:
- 1/4 cup sesame dressing (store-bought or homemade)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious salad takes about 10 minutes to prepare. It’s a quick and easy dish that doesn’t need any cooking time since you’re using cooked chicken. Perfect for a light meal or a refreshing side!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Ingredients:
Start by taking a large mixing bowl and adding the shredded chicken, mixed salad greens, shredded carrots, shredded red cabbage, mandarin oranges, sliced green onions, and chopped cilantro. It’s a colorful mix that looks (and tastes) great!
2. Toss the Salad:
Gently toss all the ingredients together with a large spoon. Make sure everything is mixed well so you get a little bit of everything in each bite. It should smell fresh and vibrant!
3. Dress the Salad:
Now, drizzle the sesame dressing over your salad mixture. Toss it again to make sure all the ingredients are coated with that tasty dressing. If you like, sprinkle in some salt and pepper to enhance the flavors.
4. Add Crunch and Serve:
Transfer your beautiful salad to a large serving platter. Top it off with crispy fried onions and your choice of sliced almonds or peanuts for an extra crunch. This is where it gets really exciting!
5. Enjoy Your Salad:
Serve the salad immediately to keep it fresh and crispy. Enjoy your refreshing Chinese chicken salad with friends or family—it’s sure to impress!
Can I Use Different Types of Greens in This Salad?
Absolutely! While romaine and green leaf are great choices, feel free to use any salad greens you have on hand, such as baby spinach, arugula, or mixed greens. Just make sure to wash and dry them thoroughly before adding them to the salad for the best texture.
What Can I Substitute for Chicken?
If you’re looking for a meat alternative, shredded rotisserie or grilled tofu works wonderfully in this salad! You can also use chickpeas or canned tuna for a quick protein boost. Just ensure any substitutes are well-drained and cubed or shredded for easy mixing.
How to Store Leftovers?
To store leftovers, keep the salad components and dressing separate until you’re ready to eat. Place the salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. If you’ve already mixed it, it’s still good for about 1 day; just add a bit more dressing before enjoying!
Can I Make the Dressing from Scratch?
Yes, making homemade sesame dressing is easy! Combine 1/4 cup sesame oil, 2 tablespoons rice vinegar, 1 tablespoon soy sauce, and a dash of honey or sugar for sweetness. Shake or whisk until blended, and use it instead of store-bought for a fresh touch!
