Asian Chicken Salad
The ultimate refreshing meal, the Asian Chicken Salad is a vibrant mix of fresh ingredients that burst with flavor. Crisp veggies, tender chicken, and sweet Mandarin oranges come together for a light yet satisfying dish. Perfect for easy weeknight dinners or sunny picnics, you'll want to make it tonight!
Equipment
- Chef's Knife
Ingredients
- 4 cups cabbage
- 2.5 cups spinach leaves
- 0.5 cups shredded, cooked chicken breast
- 1 cup Mandarin oranges
- 1 red bell pepper
- 0.75 cups broccoli florets
- 0.33 cups green onions
- 0.25 cups almonds
- 0.25 cups Toasted Sesame Dressing
- 1 Chow Mein crunchy noodles
Instructions
- Begin by preparing all your ingredients. Gather your fresh cabbage, spinach leaves, shredded chicken, Mandarin oranges, red bell pepper, broccoli florets, green onions, almonds, and Toasted Sesame Dressing. Make sure everything is washed and prepped. The vibrant colors will make the salad visually appealing.
- In a large bowl, combine the shredded cabbage and spinach leaves. These greens will create a fresh and crunchy base for your salad. Toss them together gently, allowing the leaves to mix while keeping their shape.
- Add the shredded chicken to the bowl. It’s best if this is already cooked and cooled, as warm chicken can wilt the greens. Gently fold the chicken into the mixture, ensuring even distribution without breaking it apart.
- Next, incorporate the Mandarin oranges into the salad. The sweetness from these fruits will complement the savory ingredients perfectly. Be careful not to squish them as you mix.
- Now, slice your red bell pepper into thin strips and add them to the bowl. Their crunch and color will enhance both the taste and appearance of your salad.
- Chop the broccoli florets into bite-sized pieces and add them in as well. Broccoli introduces a nice crunch and heaps of nutrients.
- Chop your green onions and sprinkle them over the salad for some extra flavor. They add a mild onion taste that’s delightful without overwhelming the dish.
- Finally, toss in the almonds. They will bring in a nutty flavor and extra texture, making the salad even more interesting.
- Drizzle the Toasted Sesame Dressing over the entire mixture. This dressing is key to tying all the flavors together. Gently toss everything until the dressing coats all the ingredients evenly.
- As a finishing touch, top the salad with Chow Mein crunchy noodles. These will add a satisfying crunch that contrasts with the tender vegetables and chicken. Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.
Notes
When it comes to preparing the Asian Chicken Salad, a few tips can help you get the best results. Here are some practical suggestions to keep in mind:
- Storage: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The salad is best enjoyed within two days to maintain freshness.
- Freezing: This salad is not recommended for freezing due to the presence of the fresh greens, which do not thaw well.
- Pairing: Serve this salad alongside grilled fish or chicken for a heartier meal. It pairs wonderfully with Asian-inspired dishes.
- Variations: Feel free to add other veggies like shredded carrots or snap peas for additional crunch.
- Serving Temperature: This salad is best served cold, which makes it great for summer days or picnics.