Chinese Chicken Salad
A refreshing and flavorful salad combining crisp vegetables, tender chicken, and a homemade dressing, perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings.
Ingredients
Salad Base
- 4 cups Napa cabbage, shredded Adds crunch and moisture
- 3 cups Iceberg lettuce, chopped Provides a mild, crisp texture
- 2.5 cups cooked chicken, diced Offers protein and heartiness
- 1 cup carrots, julienned Adds sweetness and color
- 11 oz mandarin oranges, drained and patted dry Provides sweetness and moisture
- 1/3 cup green onions, diced Contributes a mild onion flavor
- 1/2 cup chow mein noodles Adds a crunchy texture
- 1/2 cup crispy wonton strips Adds extra crunch
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds Provides a nutty flavor and crunch
- 2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds Adds a subtle nutty flavor
Dressing
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar Adds acidity and brightness
- 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce Provides sweetness and depth
- 2 tablespoons peanut oil (or avocado, vegetable, or canola oil) Adds richness
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce Provides umami flavor
- 1 tablespoon honey Adds natural sweetness
- 2 cloves garlic, minced Adds aromatic flavor
- 1 teaspoon peanut butter (optional) Provides creaminess and nuttiness
- 3/4 teaspoon toasted sesame seed oil Adds a rich, nutty flavor
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger Adds warmth and spice
Instructions
Preparation of Dressing
- In a jar with a lid, combine the rice vinegar, hoisin sauce, peanut oil, soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, and toasted sesame seed oil. If using peanut butter, include that as well. Secure the lid tightly.
- Shake the jar very well to combine the dressing ingredients or use a mini food processor for a smooth consistency. Refrigerate the dressing while preparing the salad.
Assembling the Salad
- In a large bowl or on a serving platter, arrange the shredded Napa cabbage and chopped Iceberg lettuce as the base. Drizzle a little of the dressing on the greens.
- Add the diced cooked chicken over the greens, followed by the julienned carrots, drained mandarin oranges, and diced green onions.
- Drizzle more dressing over the entire salad mix and sprinkle with sliced almonds, chow mein noodles, wonton strips, and toasted sesame seeds.
- Serve the salad immediately, or keep the remaining dressing on the side for extra.
Notes
Chill the dressing before serving for enhanced flavor. Use rotisserie chicken for convenience. Ensure mandarin oranges are well-drained to prevent sogginess. Dress just before serving to maintain crispness.
Nutrition
Serving: 1gCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 20gFat: 22gSaturated Fat: 3gSodium: 800mgFiber: 4gSugar: 10g
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