Description

Sesame chicken cabbage crunch salad is a fresh, flavorful, and satisfying dish that combines tender shredded chicken, crisp cabbage, crunchy veggies, and a nutty sesame dressing. It’s perfect for meal prep, potlucks, or a light yet protein-packed lunch or dinner. The mix of textures and bold Asian-inspired flavors makes every bite irresistibly good.

Ingredients

Salad Ingredients

3 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie or poached)
4 cups shredded green cabbage
2 cups shredded red cabbage
1 cup shredded carrots
1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
3 green onions, sliced
½ cup chopped cilantro
¼ cup sliced almonds or chopped peanuts
2 tablespoons sesame seeds
½ cup crispy wonton strips (optional)

Dressing Ingredients

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)

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Instructions

Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the shredded chicken, green and red cabbage, shredded carrots, thinly sliced red bell pepper, sliced green onions, and chopped cilantro. Gently toss them together to distribute evenly.
Make the Dressing: In a separate bowl or jar, whisk or shake together soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, honey or maple syrup, fresh lime juice, grated fresh ginger, minced garlic, and neutral oil until fully emulsified and smooth.
Toss Salad with Dressing: Pour the prepared dressing over the salad mixture and toss well to coat all ingredients evenly with the dressing for balanced flavor in every bite.
Add Crunchy Toppings: Just before serving, sprinkle sliced almonds or chopped peanuts, sesame seeds, and crispy wonton strips on top to maintain their crunch and add texture contrast.
Serve: Serve the salad chilled or at room temperature as a refreshing and nutritious meal or side dish.

Notes

This salad can be made ahead by storing the dressing separately and tossing just before serving to maintain freshness and crunch.
For a heartier meal, add cooked rice noodles or edamame to the salad.
To make it vegetarian, substitute the chicken with tofu or edamame for plant-based protein.