This Chopped Chinese Chicken Salad is a colorful mix of tender chicken, crisp veggies, and crunchy nuts all tossed in a tasty dressing. It’s fresh, light, and super satisfying!
Whenever I make this salad, it disappears in no time! I love adding extra cashews on top—who can resist that crunch? It’s perfect for lunch or dinner!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Grilled or rotisserie chicken works great here. It adds flavor and saves cooking time. If you’re looking for a lighter option, shredded turkey or even tofu can work as great alternatives.
Lettuce: Romaine gives a nice crunch, but you can use other greens like iceberg, spinach, or butter lettuce. Mixing different greens can add variety and color.
Red Cabbage: This adds a beautiful color and crunch. If you can’t find it, green cabbage is a good substitute, though it’s a bit milder in flavor.
Mandarin Oranges: Canned mandarins are convenient, but fresh orange segments or even diced apples can add a sweet touch if you prefer.
Crispy Wonton Strips: If you want to skip the wonton strips, try using baked tortilla chips or croutons for crunch. Depending on your preference for texture, even toasted nuts can be a nice twist.
How Do I Ensure My Salad Ingredients Stay Crisp?
Keeping ingredients fresh and crisp is key to a great salad! Start by washing your greens and veggies thoroughly to remove any dirt. Dry them well; a salad spinner is perfect for this or simply pat them with paper towels.
- Prepare the salad just before serving to keep everything crunchy. If you must make it ahead, store dressing separately.
- Combine all ingredients right before eating. This avoids sogginess, especially with the crispy wonton strips and nuts.
How to Make Chopped Chinese Chicken Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, diced or shredded (grilled or rotisserie)
- 4 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
- 1 cup red cabbage, shredded
- 1 cup carrots, julienned or shredded
- 1 cup cucumber, chopped
- 1/2 cup green onions, sliced
- 1/2 cup mandarin oranges, drained
- 1/2 cup crispy wonton strips
- 1/4 cup slivered almonds (optional)
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped (optional)
For the Dressing:
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons honey or sugar
- 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare, making it a quick meal option. Simply chop, mix, whisk, and toss—then enjoy your delicious Chopped Chinese Chicken Salad!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Salad Base:
Start by taking a large bowl and adding the chopped romaine lettuce, shredded red cabbage, julienned carrots, chopped cucumber, and sliced green onions. This colorful mix will form the base of your salad.
2. Add the Chicken and Oranges:
Next, add the cooked chicken—diced or shredded—into the bowl, followed by the drained mandarin oranges. These ingredients will add flavor and protein to your salad.
3. Whisk the Dressing Together:
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, honey (or sugar), minced garlic, and minced ginger. If you like a crunch, add the sesame seeds here too. Mix until everything is well combined.
4. Combine Everything:
Pour the dressing over the salad mixture in the large bowl. Toss gently with tongs or a salad fork to coat all the ingredients evenly with the dressing. This step ensures that every bite is full of flavor!
5. Add the Crunchy Toppings:
Just before serving, sprinkle the crispy wonton strips on top of the salad. If you’re using them, also add the slivered almonds and chopped cilantro for an extra burst of flavor.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Now it’s time to dig in! Serve your Chopped Chinese Chicken Salad immediately while it’s fresh and crunchy. Enjoy the delightful mix of textures and tastes!
Can I Use Different Proteins in This Salad?
Absolutely! While cooked chicken is traditional, you can substitute it with grilled shrimp, tofu, or even sliced beef for a different flavor. Just ensure the protein is cooked and diced to the right size for easy mixing with the salad.
What Can I Substitute for Rice Vinegar?
If you don’t have rice vinegar on hand, you can use white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar as alternatives. Both options will provide a tangy flavor similar to rice vinegar. Just start with a little less than the recipe calls for, and adjust to taste!
How Should I Store Leftover Salad?
To store leftovers, keep the salad and dressing separate. Place the salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Store the dressing in a sealed jar. When you’re ready to eat, drizzle the dressing on just before serving to keep the salad fresh and crispy.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
You can prep the ingredients ahead of time! Chop the vegetables and cook the chicken a day in advance. Just keep everything in separate containers in the fridge. Mix it all together and add the dressing right before serving to ensure freshness and crunch.
