The Best Chopped Chinese Chicken Salad – Discover the perfect blend of flavors. With “The Best Chopped Chinese Chicken Salad Recipe.” This delightful salad. Combines shredded chicken, Napa and red cabbage, carrots, scallions, and cilantro. All tossed in a zesty homemade dressing. Made with rice vinegar, hoisin sauce, soy sauce, and fresh ginger. It’s a refreshing. And satisfying dish. That’s perfect for any occasion.
The first time I made this salad. It was a sunny Saturday afternoon. My husband and our little one. Were playing in the yard. And I wanted to whip up something quick. And delicious for lunch. The vibrant colors of the fresh veggies. And the tantalizing aroma of the homemade dressing. Caught their attention immediately. Watching them savor each bite. With big smiles on their faces. Made this recipe an instant family favorite. It’s now our go-to. For a light yet fulfilling meal. That everyone loves.
What makes this The Best Chopped Chinese Chicken Salad truly stands out?
This salad stands out. With its vibrant mix of crunchy Napa. And red cabbage, juicy shredded chicken, and the tangy-sweet dressing. The addition of fried wonton strips. And sesame seeds. Adds a delightful crunch. Making each bite. A textural delight. It’s not only quick to prepare. But also perfect for meal prep. Staying fresh. And flavorful for days.
What You Need To Make This The Best Chopped Chinese Chicken Salad Recipe?
Canola Oil: This mild oil acts as the perfect carrier. For the robust flavors in the dressing. Without overpowering them.
Rice Vinegar: Adds a subtle tanginess. That balances the sweet and savory elements of the dressing.
Hoisin Sauce: A rich, sweet, and salty sauce. That gives the dressing its distinctive depth.
Soy Sauce: Provides a savory, umami kick. That ties all the flavors together.
Fresh Ginger: The grated ginger. Adds a zesty, aromatic freshness. That elevates the entire salad.
Toasted Sesame Oil: Just a half teaspoon. Adds a delightful, nutty aroma. That makes the dressing irresistible.
Cooked Chicken: Use leftover or rotisserie chicken for convenience. It adds a hearty protein punch to the salad.
Napa and Red Cabbage: These cabbages provide a satisfying crunch. And vibrant color contrast.
Shredded Carrots: Sweet and colorful. They add a lovely crunch. And visual appeal.
Scallions: Thinly sliced for a mild onion flavor. That blends seamlessly with the other ingredients.
Fresh Cilantro: Adds a bright, herbaceous note. That lightens the salad.
Want To Save This Recipe?
Fried Wonton Strips: These optional strips. Add a fantastic crunchy texture. That makes each bite exciting.
Sesame Seeds: Optional. But they add a nice visual garnish. And a slight crunch.
Steps To Make The Best Chopped Chinese Chicken Salad:
Step 1: Make the Dressing: In a small jar with a tight-fitting lid. Combine the canola oil, rice vinegar, hoisin sauce, soy sauce, grated ginger, and toasted sesame oil. Shake vigorously. Until well combined. Let the flavors meld at room temperature. While you prepare the rest of the salad. Or refrigerate for up to 4 days if making ahead.
Step 2: Prepare the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, Napa cabbage, red cabbage, shredded carrots, scallions, and cilantro. Give the dressing another good shake to recombine. Then pour it over the salad.
Step 3: Toss and Serve: Toss the salad. Until all ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing. Sprinkle with fried wonton strips. And sesame seeds, if desired. For added crunch and garnish. Serve immediately. And enjoy!
Tip:
For an extra burst of flavor. Let the salad sit for about 15 minutes. After tossing with the dressing. This resting period. Allows the flavors to meld together. Making each bite. More harmonious and delicious. If you’re preparing this salad ahead of time. Keep the dressing and salad components separate. Until just before serving. To maintain the crispness of the vegetables. Also, try toasting the sesame seeds for a few minutes. Before sprinkling them over the salad. This simple step. Enhances their flavor. Adds an irresistible nutty aroma.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the salad and dressing separately. And store them in the refrigerator. Toss them together just before serving. To keep everything crisp. And fresh.
What can I substitute for hoisin sauce?
You can use a mix of soy sauce. And a bit of honey or brown sugar. To mimic the sweet. And savory flavor of hoisin sauce.
Can I use a different type of cabbage?
Absolutely! Green cabbage. Or even a coleslaw mix. Can be used in place of Napa and red cabbage.
<Remember it later>
Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!
<Remember it later>
Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!
The Best Chopped Chinese Chicken Salad Recipe
Ingredients
Salad Dressing:
- 2 tbsp canola oil
- 1/3 c rice vinegar
- 1/4 c hoisin sauce
- 1 1/2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger grated
- 1/2 tsp toasted sesame oil
Salad:
- 4 c cooked chicken shredded or diced
- 1 lb Napa cabbage cored and finely shredded
- 2 c red cabbage cored and finely shredded
- 1 c shredded carrots
- 1 bunch scallions thinly sliced
- 1/4 c fresh cilantro minced
- 1 c fried wonton strips
- 2 tbsp sesame seeds for garnish optional
Instructions
- Make the Dressing: Shake canola oil, rice vinegar, hoisin sauce, soy sauce, grated ginger, and toasted sesame oil in a small jar until combined.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix shredded chicken, Napa and red cabbage, carrots, scallions, and cilantro.
- Dress the Salad: Pour the dressing over the salad and toss until evenly coated.
- Serve: Sprinkle with fried wonton strips and sesame seeds if desired, and serve immediately.
Notes
I’m Bitty, owner of nodashofgluten.com, where I share simple, delicious recipes for all tastes, including gluten-free. Check out my “About Me” page for more info!
