If you’re craving a salad that bursts with flavor, texture, and a touch of Asian flair, this Sesame Chicken Cabbage Crunch Salad Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. Combining tender shredded chicken with crisp green and red cabbage, sweet bell pepper, fresh herbs, and a homemade nutty sesame dressing, every bite delivers a delightful crunch and vibrant taste. Whether you’re preparing a quick lunch, meal prepping for the week, or need a standout dish for your next potluck, this salad is a fresh, protein-packed choice that promises satisfaction without any fuss.

Sesame Chicken Cabbage Crunch Salad Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Simple yet thoughtfully selected, these ingredients are the heart of the Sesame Chicken Cabbage Crunch Salad Recipe. Each component adds personality—whether it’s that satisfying crunch, fresh brightness, or that deep savory-sweet essence from the dressing.

3 cups cooked shredded chicken: Choose rotisserie or poached for tender, juicy protein that blends perfectly with crisp veggies.
4 cups shredded green cabbage: Adds bulk and a mild crunch, acting as a refreshing canvas for other flavors.
2 cups shredded red cabbage: For vibrant color and a slightly peppery bite that enhances texture contrast.
1 cup shredded carrots: Sweetness and a hint of earthiness, plus a pop of orange that makes the salad visually inviting.
1 red bell pepper (thinly sliced): Crunchy, juicy, and colorful, elevating the freshness.
3 green onions (sliced): Adds subtle sharpness and layers of savory flavor.
½ cup chopped cilantro: A burst of herbal brightness that livens up every forkful.
¼ cup sliced almonds or chopped peanuts: Nutty crunch to complement the sesame dressing perfectly.
2 tablespoons sesame seeds: Small but mighty—these sprinkle extra nuttiness and visual appeal.
½ cup crispy wonton strips (optional): Adds irresistible crunchiness to finish the salad with flair.
For the dressing: 3 tablespoons soy sauce, 2 tablespoons rice vinegar, 1 tablespoon sesame oil, 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup, 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice, 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger, 1 clove garlic (minced), ¼ cup neutral oil (like avocado or canola): This flavorful mix ties everything together with bold, balanced Asian-inspired notes.

How to Make Sesame Chicken Cabbage Crunch Salad Recipe

Step 1: Combine the Salad Ingredients

Start by tossing your shredded chicken, green and red cabbage, shredded carrots, thinly sliced red bell pepper, sliced green onions, and chopped cilantro together in a large mixing bowl. The blend of colors and textures here already promises something special, and it’s the foundation on which the dressing will work its magic.

Step 2: Prepare the Sesame Dressing

In a separate bowl or jar, whisk or shake together the soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, honey or maple syrup, fresh lime juice, grated ginger, minced garlic, and neutral oil until fully emulsified. This dressing is vibrant and perfectly balanced with sweet, tangy, and nutty layers that bring the whole salad to life.

Step 3: Toss Together

Pour the dressing over your salad mixture and give it a thorough toss to ensure every shred and slice is coated in that luscious sesame goodness. This step is where the flavors really begin to marry and take shape.

Step 4: Add the Final Crunch

Just before serving, sprinkle your sliced almonds or chopped peanuts, sesame seeds, and crispy wonton strips on top. This guarantees maximum crunch and delightful texture contrast in every mouthful.

How to Serve Sesame Chicken Cabbage Crunch Salad Recipe

Garnishes

For an extra pop of freshness and color, sprinkle additional chopped cilantro or even a few thinly sliced red chili peppers if you like a little heat. These simple garnishes elevate the salad visually and flavor-wise.

Side Dishes

This salad pairs beautifully with steamed jasmine rice or light dumplings if you want to build out your meal. It also complements simple grilled vegetables or miso soup for a well-rounded Asian-inspired feast.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the salad in pretty mason jars for an easy grab-and-go lunch option or artistically mound it on large serving platters topped with extra nuts and herbs for a stunning potluck centerpiece. You can also use it as a filling for lettuce wraps for a fun handheld twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

You can definitely make this salad ahead of time. The best practice is to store the dressing separately and toss it with the salad just before eating to preserve the crispness of the cabbage and the crunch of the nuts and wonton strips.

Freezing

This salad is not suitable for freezing due to the fresh veggies and dressing that could turn soggy and lose their appealing texture when thawed.

Reheating

Since this is a no-cook, cold salad, reheating isn’t necessary or recommended. Just enjoy it chilled or at room temperature for the best flavor and texture experience.

FAQs

Can I use leftover chicken for this salad?

Absolutely! Shredded leftover rotisserie or poached chicken works perfectly and makes this salad a great way to use what you have on hand.

Is there a vegetarian version of this Sesame Chicken Cabbage Crunch Salad Recipe?

Yes! Simply swap out the chicken for tofu cubes or edamame for a delicious vegetarian alternative that keeps the protein content satisfying.

Can I prepare this salad in advance for meal prep?

Definitely. Just keep the dressing separate and add it when you’re ready to eat. Adding nuts and wonton strips right before serving keeps everything wonderfully crunchy.

What can I substitute if I don’t have wonton strips?

Replace them with crunchy chow mein noodles, toasted pita chips, or even crispy tortilla strips for a similar satisfying crunch.

How long does this salad keep in the fridge?

Stored in an airtight container with dressing separate, the salad stays fresh for up to 3 days, making it ideal for quick lunches or light dinners throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

Once you try this Sesame Chicken Cabbage Crunch Salad Recipe, it’s bound to become a regular in your recipe rotation. It’s fresh, flavorful, easy to make, and endlessly versatile — perfect for sharing with family and friends or enjoying solo. I can’t wait for you to experience the joyful crunch and vibrant flavors that make this salad truly unforgettable.