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This Chinese Chicken Salad is a go to favorite for its crunch freshness and bold flavors. It combines crisp greens tender chicken and an irresistible dressing you will crave over and over. I make it often for gatherings and it never fails to impress
I threw this together for a last minute potluck once and it was the first bowl to empty. Since then it has become my summer staple
Ingredients
- Napa cabbage: shredded for a mild crunch and freshness
- Iceberg lettuce: adds crisp texture and blends well with dressing
- Cooked chicken: diced rotisserie works best for ease and flavor
- Carrots: julienned for color and natural sweetness
- Mandarin oranges: drained to avoid sogginess and bring bright citrus flavor
- Green onions: diced for a mild sharp contrast
- Chow mein noodles: give airy crunch and hold up well
- Crispy wonton strips: add savory crispness with a delicate bite
- Sliced almonds: for toasty nutty notes and texture
- Toasted sesame seeds: deepen flavor and bring a slight smokiness
- Rice vinegar: gives tang to balance the sweetness
- Hoisin sauce: adds rich umami depth
- Peanut oil: or substitute oils for smooth blending and nutty base
- Soy sauce: enhances savory notes and rounds out the profile
- Honey: softens acidity and provides balance
- Garlic: minced for aromatic punch and complexity
- Peanut butter: optional for creamy body and nutty base
- Toasted sesame seed oil: for finishing richness
- Ground ginger: adds subtle warmth and brightness
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Base:
- Shred the Napa cabbage and chop the iceberg lettuce then arrange evenly across a large serving platter to create a fresh layered foundation
- Add Protein and Color:
- Scatter the diced chicken evenly followed by julienned carrots mandarin orange segments and diced green onions to ensure color and balance
- Drizzle with Dressing:
- Gently drizzle a portion of the prepared dressing over the top allowing it to lightly coat the salad without overwhelming the ingredients
- Add Crunchy Toppings:
- Layer on the chow mein noodles crispy wonton strips and sliced almonds for maximum texture just before serving to preserve crispness
- Garnish and Serve:
- Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds over the salad then serve with remaining dressing on the side so guests can customize flavor to taste
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The sesame seeds always make this stand out for me. Once I started toasting them myself they elevated every bite. My son now insists I never skip them
Storage Tips
If making ahead store ingredients separately in airtight containers for up to two days. Toss with dressing just before serving to maintain crunch and flavor. Refrigerate leftovers promptly and consume within twenty four hours for best results
Ingredient Substitutions
Swap mandarin oranges for pineapple or apple for a sweeter variation. Use spring mix in place of iceberg if you want a softer base. For added richness try cashews or goat cheese instead of almonds and orange segments
Serving Suggestions
This salad pairs beautifully with a bowl of soup or crusty bread. For a heartier meal top with fried chicken tenders or shrimp. Serve in small bowls for elegant individual portions at gatherings
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Cultural Context
This dish reflects the fusion style common in Chinese American cuisine. It emphasizes balance between savory sweet and crunchy elements while incorporating pantry friendly ingredients in a creative way that suits Western palates
Frequently Asked Questions About Recipes
- → Can I use rotisserie chicken for this salad?
Yes rotisserie chicken is perfect for saving time and adds delicious flavor to the salad.
- → How long does the salad keep in the fridge?
Prepared salad ingredients can be stored separately for up to 2 days but once tossed with dressing it is best enjoyed immediately.
- → What are good substitutions for hoisin sauce?
You can use a mix of soy sauce and a bit of brown sugar or barbecue sauce to mimic the sweet savory flavor of hoisin.
- → How can I make this salad vegetarian?
Skip the chicken and add tofu edamame or more vegetables like bell peppers and bean sprouts.
- → Can I make the dressing ahead of time?
Yes the dressing can be made and refrigerated in a sealed container for up to 1 week just shake well before using.
- → What can I use instead of chow mein noodles?
Try using crispy rice noodles crushed ramen or even tortilla strips for a similar crunch.