If you’re searching for a fresh, flavor-packed meal that’s as easy as it is crave-worthy, look no further than this Sesame Chicken Cabbage Crunch Salad. Bursting with vibrant color and a delightful blend of textures, this salad combines juicy shredded chicken, crisp cabbage, crunchy almonds, and a zingy sesame dressing that ties it all together. Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week or whipping up a quick dinner, this dish brings restaurant-quality flavor to your own kitchen in just 20 minutes.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Sesame Chicken Cabbage Crunch Salad is in its simplicity—each ingredient is chosen for the way it adds taste, texture, or visual appeal. From the hearty chicken to the lively green onions and that signature sesame splash, everything plays a delicious role.
- Cooked chicken breast: Use shredded or chopped for juicy protein and a satisfying bite—rotisserie chicken makes it extra easy.
- Green cabbage: Offers a refreshing, crunchy base that soaks up the tangy dressing.
- Purple cabbage: Adds stunning color and a mild peppery note for extra interest.
- Shredded carrots: Bring subtle sweetness and a vibrant orange hue to the mix.
- Green onions: Deliver a gentle oniony lift without overpowering the salad.
- Sliced almonds (toasted): Give that irresistible nutty crunch in every forkful.
- Crunchy chow mein noodles: The ultimate topping for texture lovers—don’t skip them!
- Sesame seeds (toasted): Dial up the sesame flavor and add a lovely visual pop.
- Fresh cilantro (optional): For a burst of herbal freshness and a touch of green flair.
- Rice vinegar: The base of our dressing, lending a bright, tangy note.
- Soy sauce: Adds savory depth and that umami punch.
- Toasted sesame oil: The flavor star—just a little brings loads of aromatic sesame richness.
- Olive oil or avocado oil: Balances the dressing with silky smoothness.
- Honey or maple syrup: Sweetens things up while enhancing all the other flavors.
- Dijon mustard: Helps emulsify the dressing and adds a hint of tangy sharpness.
- Garlic (minced): For a subtle kick and depth of flavor.
- Fresh ginger (grated): Infuses the dressing with warm, zesty brightness.
- Salt and pepper: Essential for bringing every ingredient to life—season to taste!
How to Make Sesame Chicken Cabbage Crunch Salad
Step 1: Prep Your Produce and Protein
Start by shredding both the green and purple cabbage—aim for thin, even strips for the best crunch and easy eating. Grate your carrots if they aren’t already prepped, and slice the green onions nice and thin. If you’re using rotisserie chicken, simply shred it by hand; otherwise, chop or shred your cooked chicken breast. The key is to keep everything bite-sized so you get a bit of everything in each forkful.
Step 2: Build the Crunchy Base
In your largest salad bowl (trust me, this makes mixing much easier), combine the shredded cabbages, carrots, green onions, and chicken. Add in the toasted almonds, crunchy chow mein noodles, and sesame seeds. This step is all about layering in those different textures—don’t be shy about tossing everything together so it’s evenly distributed!
Step 3: Whisk Up the Sesame Dressing
In a separate small bowl or a jar with a tight-fitting lid, whisk together the rice vinegar, soy sauce, toasted sesame oil, olive or avocado oil, honey or maple syrup, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, and grated fresh ginger. Give it a taste, then season with salt and pepper as needed. The dressing should be bright, a little sweet, and wonderfully aromatic thanks to that sesame oil and ginger.
Step 4: Toss and Marinate
Pour the sesame dressing over your salad base and toss everything thoroughly to ensure every shred and crunch is coated. Let the salad sit for 10 to 15 minutes before serving—this quick rest allows the flavors to meld and the veggies to soften ever-so-slightly, making each bite vibrant and flavorful.
Step 5: Finish and Serve
Just before serving, sprinkle the chopped cilantro over the top if you’re using it. Give the salad one final gentle toss, and you’re ready to dig in! The Sesame Chicken Cabbage Crunch Salad is best enjoyed immediately for maximum crunch, but it’s still delicious even if it sits for a little while.
How to Serve Sesame Chicken Cabbage Crunch Salad
Garnishes
To make your Sesame Chicken Cabbage Crunch Salad extra special, finish it off with a final scatter of toasted sesame seeds, a handful of fresh cilantro, and perhaps a few extra crunchy chow mein noodles on top. These little touches add not just visual flair but an irresistible crunch and aroma.
Side Dishes
This salad is a meal all on its own, but it also pairs wonderfully with simple sides. Think steamed jasmine rice, a warm bowl of miso soup, or even some fresh summer rolls. If you want to keep things light, serve it with sliced cucumbers or a tangy Asian-inspired slaw for a refreshing contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving your Sesame Chicken Cabbage Crunch Salad in lettuce cups for a hand-held appetizer or lunch. You can also pile the salad high in individual mason jars for colorful, portable lunches. For parties, arrange it on a platter with extra toppings in little bowls so everyone can customize their own masterpiece.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, transfer the Sesame Chicken Cabbage Crunch Salad to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. The veggies will soften a bit as they sit, but the flavors only get better. For best texture, keep the chow mein noodles separate and add them right before serving to maintain their crunch.
Freezing
Salads like this one are best enjoyed fresh, and freezing isn’t recommended. The cabbage and fresh veggies can become watery and lose their crunch after thawing, which takes away from what makes this salad so delightful. Stick to refrigerating for short-term storage instead.
Reheating
Since the Sesame Chicken Cabbage Crunch Salad is a no-cook, chilled dish, there’s no need to reheat it. If you want to refresh the flavors, give the salad a quick toss and maybe a splash of extra dressing. Adding fresh crunchy toppings like toasted almonds or chow mein noodles can revive the texture beautifully.
FAQs
Can I make Sesame Chicken Cabbage Crunch Salad vegetarian?
Absolutely! Just skip the chicken or swap it for crispy tofu or edamame for plant-based protein. The salad is still incredibly flavorful and satisfying.
What type Salad
Any cooked, shredded or chopped chicken breast works well, but rotisserie chicken is a real time-saver and adds a ton of flavor. Leftover grilled or poached chicken is also great.
How far in advance can I make the salad?
You can prep most components up to a day ahead—just keep the veggies, chicken, and dressing separate until you’re ready to serve. Toss everything together and add the crunchy toppings just before eating to keep things crisp.
Are there gluten-free options for the crunchy toppings?
If you’re avoiding gluten, look for gluten-free chow mein noodles or swap in crispy rice noodles. Double-check your soy sauce, or use tamari for a gluten-free dressing.
Can I add extra veggies to the Sesame Chicken Cabbage Crunch Salad?
Definitely! Feel free to toss in sliced bell peppers, cucumbers, snap peas, or even some edamame. The salad is super flexible and perfect for using up whatever’s in your fridge.
Final Thoughts
If you’re ready to fall in love with salad all over again, this Sesame Chicken Cabbage Crunch Salad is waiting for you. It’s bold, bright, and bursting with texture—perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or sharing with friends. Give it a try, and don’t be surprised if it becomes your new go-to favorite!
Print
Sesame Chicken Cabbage Crunch Salad Recipe
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
A vibrant and crunchy Sesame Chicken Cabbage Crunch Salad featuring shredded chicken, colorful cabbages, and a zesty sesame dressing. Perfect for a light, nutritious lunch or dinner with a delightful Asian-inspired flavor profile and satisfying textures.
Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast (shredded or chopped)
- 4 cups green cabbage (shredded)
- 2 cups purple cabbage (shredded)
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 3 green onions (sliced)
- 1/2 cup sliced almonds (toasted)
- 1/2 cup crunchy chow mein noodles
- 2 tablespoons sesame seeds (toasted)
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro (chopped, optional)
For the Sesame Dressing
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 clove garlic (minced)
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Combine the Salad Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together the green and purple cabbage, shredded carrots, sliced green onions, and chopped cooked chicken until well combined.
- Add Crunchy Elements: Incorporate the toasted sliced almonds, crunchy chow mein noodles, and toasted sesame seeds into the salad mixture, tossing gently to distribute evenly.
- Prepare the Dressing: In a separate small bowl or jar, whisk together rice vinegar, soy sauce, toasted sesame oil, olive or avocado oil, honey or maple syrup, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, and grated fresh ginger until the dressing is smooth and emulsified. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Dress the Salad: Pour the prepared sesame dressing over the salad and toss thoroughly to ensure every ingredient is coated evenly with the flavorful dressing.
- Marinate and Serve: Allow the salad to sit for 10 to 15 minutes at room temperature to let the flavors meld together. Before serving, sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro on top if desired to add a fresh, herbal note. Serve immediately for maximum crunch.
Notes
- Use rotisserie chicken for a quick and convenient protein option.
- Add sliced cucumbers, bell peppers, or edamame to enhance color, texture, and nutritional value.
- To make this recipe vegetarian, omit the chicken or substitute with crispy tofu.
- Ensure nuts and chow mein noodles are fresh for optimal crunch and taste.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 1/2 cups
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 26g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
