As the weather warms up, nothing hits the spot quite like a refreshing, nutrient-packed salad that’s bursting with flavor. This Asian Chicken Salad combines the savory goodness of shredded chicken with the delightful crunch of fresh vegetables and crispy rice noodles, all topped with a tangy, slightly sweet sesame dressing.
It’s the perfect balance of textures and flavors, making it a versatile dish for lunch, dinner, or even as a crowd-pleasing side at your next gathering.
What sets this salad apart is the vibrant dressing made with a delicate mix of vegetable oil, rice vinegar, sesame oil, soy sauce, and brown sugar. The dressing’s balanced sweetness and tanginess complement the crispness of the lettuce and the nutty crunch of toasted sesame seeds.
Plus, with the added protein from chicken and fiber from the veggies, it’s a filling yet light meal that’ll leave you satisfied without feeling heavy. For a complete meal, serve it alongside Authentic Basmati Rice or a refreshing Spiced Citrus Shrub Cocktail.
This recipe has gained popularity not only for its flavors but also for being a lighter alternative to traditional heavy salads. It’s perfect for meal prep, and the ingredients are easily customizable to fit your tastes or dietary preferences.
Whether you’re a salad lover or just looking for a quick, wholesome meal, this one checks all the boxes.
Why You’ll Want to Make This Again and Again!
- Quick and easy: It takes less than 30 minutes to put together, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Customizable: Add more vegetables or spice it up with chili flakes if you like a kick.
- A complete meal: With chicken and noodles, it’s filling and packed with protein.
- Light but satisfying: Perfect for warm weather meals without the heaviness.
- Healthy twist: Fresh ingredients that nourish your body and your taste buds.
Asian Chicken Salad Recipe
Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Knife and chopping board
- Whisk or fork (for mixing dressing)
- Small saucepan (for toasting sesame seeds)
- Pan for cooking chicken
- Serving platter or bowl
Ingredients
Dressing:
- ¼ cup vegetable oil
- 3 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil Optional
- 2 teaspoons soy sauce
Salad:
- 1 head iceberg lettuce – rinsed dried, and chopped
- 4 boneless chicken breast halves cooked and shredded
- 3 green onions chopped
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds toasted
- 1 ½ tablespoons olive oil or as needed
- 1 8 ounce package dried rice noodles
Instructions
- Cook chicken breast halves, shred them, and set aside.
- Toast sesame seeds in a small pan over medium heat.
- In a small bowl, whisk together vegetable oil, rice vinegar, brown sugar, sesame oil (optional), and soy sauce.
- In a large bowl, combine chopped lettuce, shredded chicken, green onions, and toasted sesame seeds.
- Cook rice noodles according to package instructions, drain, and add to the salad.
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad, tossing everything to combine.
- Serve immediately and enjoy the crunch and flavors!
Nutrition
Flavor-Packed Variations For Asian Chicken Salad!
- Add Spicy Sriracha Mayo: Drizzle some creamy sriracha mayo over the salad for a spicy kick. The heat pairs perfectly with the sweet and tangy dressing.
- Use Grilled Chicken: Grill the chicken instead of cooking it in a pan for a smoky depth of flavor that complements the fresh crunch of the salad.
- Add Mango or Papaya: Incorporate thin slices of ripe mango or papaya to add a touch of sweetness and tropical flair, balancing the savory elements.
- Incorporate Avocado: For a rich, creamy element, toss in diced avocado. It adds healthy fats and a smooth texture to contrast with the crunch.
- Substitute Rice Noodles with Glass Noodles: If you want a slightly different texture, swap rice noodles for translucent glass noodles, which soak up the dressing beautifully.
- Include Pickled Vegetables: Pickled carrots, cucumbers, or radishes can be added for a tangy contrast that enhances the overall flavor profile of the salad.
- Add Roasted Cashews or Almonds: For extra crunch, sprinkle roasted cashews or almonds on top. They bring a nutty richness that elevates the dish.
- Make It Low-Carb: Replace rice noodles with thinly sliced cabbage or lettuce wraps to create a lower-carb version while still maintaining that satisfying crunch.
- Use Rotisserie Chicken: For a faster alternative, use rotisserie chicken. Its smoky flavor adds an extra dimension of taste to the salad.
- Incorporate Fresh Herbs: Add a handful of fresh herbs like cilantro or mint for a burst of aromatic freshness that complements the salad’s flavors.
These variations allow you to get creative while keeping the essence of the Asian Chicken Salad intact. Feel free to experiment based on your tastes or dietary needs!
