Chinese Chicken Salad
A vibrant mix of crisp lettuce, tender chicken, and crunchy wonton strips. Tossed in a tangy sesame ginger dressing, this salad is a refreshing and satisfying meal perfect for lunch or a light dinner.
For 4 servings
5 steps. 15 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl or a jar with a tight-fitting lid, combine the rice vinegar, soy sauce, sugar, toasted sesame oil, grated ginger, and minced garlic. Whisk or shake vigorously until the sugar is dissolved and the dressing is well combined. Set aside.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Cook the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt and pepper. Heat 2 tbsp of canola oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for 6-8 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature reaches 165°F or 74°C). Transfer to a cutting board and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before shredding or slicing.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Prepare Crispy Toppings: While the chicken cooks, slice the wonton wrappers into thin 1/4-inch strips. Heat 1/2 cup of canola oil in a small saucepan over medium-high heat. Fry the wonton strips in batches for 1-2 minutes until golden and crisp. Remove with a slotted spoon to a paper towel-lined plate. In a separate dry skillet, toast the slivered almonds over medium heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until fragrant and lightly browned. Remove from heat immediately.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Assemble the Salad: In a large salad bowl, combine the shredded napa cabbage, chopped romaine lettuce, sliced green onions, and chopped cilantro. Add the cooked chicken and drained mandarin oranges.
- 5
Step 5
- a.Dress and Serve: Just before serving, add the toasted almonds and crispy wonton strips to the salad. Pour the prepared dressing over everything and toss gently to coat. Serve immediately to ensure maximum crunch.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1To save time, use a pre-cooked rotisserie chicken.
- 2For healthier wonton strips, spray them with a little oil and air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 3-5 minutes until golden.
- 3Prepare all components (dressing, cooked chicken, chopped veggies) ahead of time, but only assemble and dress the salad right before serving to prevent it from getting soggy.
- 4The dressing can be made up to a week in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Shake well before using.
- 5Ensure the mandarin oranges are drained very well to avoid adding excess moisture to the salad.
Adapt it for your goals.
Protein Swap
Substitute the chicken with grilled shrimp, seared ahi tuna, or crispy baked tofu for a different flavor profile.
VegetarianVegetarian
Omit the chicken and add 1 cup of shelled edamame and extra almonds for a hearty vegetarian version.
Extra VeggiesExtra Veggies
Add shredded carrots, thinly sliced red bell peppers, or bean sprouts for more color, crunch, and nutrients.
Nut FreeNut-Free
For a nut-free version, replace the slivered almonds with toasted sesame seeds or sunflower seeds.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Excellent Source of Lean Protein
The chicken breast provides high-quality lean protein, which is essential for building and repairing muscle tissue, and helps keep you feeling full and satisfied.
Rich in Vitamins and Fiber
With a base of napa cabbage and romaine lettuce, this salad is loaded with dietary fiber for digestive health, as well as vitamins A, C, and K.
Contains Healthy Fats
The slivered almonds and sesame oil contribute heart-healthy monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, which are beneficial for overall health.
Frequently asked questions
A single serving of this salad contains approximately 550-650 calories, depending on the amount of dressing and fried wontons used. It's a well-balanced meal with protein, carbs, and fats.