Packed with tender grilled chicken, crisp cabbage, sweet dried cranberries, and toasted almonds, this Asian Chicken Crunch Salad brings a wonderful explosion of flavors and textures in every single bite. Tossed with fresh cilantro, sesame seeds, and a zesty sesame-ginger vinaigrette, it’s a vibrant, restaurant-quality meal that’s quick and beginner-friendly!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Maximum Crunch: Crisp shredded cabbage, sliced almonds, and fresh carrots give this salad an irresistible crunch.
Sweet & Savory Balance: Grilled chicken pairs with tangy dried cranberries and toasted sesame seeds.
Meal Prep Friendly: Cabbage holds its crunch much longer than leafy greens, making this salad ideal for advance prep.
Essential Kitchen Equipment
Large Salad Bowl: To toss all the crunchy ingredients and dressing evenly.
Small Mason Jar or Whisk: For mixing the sesame-ginger vinaigrette.
Ingredients
Salad Base:
2 cups Grilled chicken breast, cooked and sliced or diced
3 cups Green cabbage, finely shredded
1 cup Red cabbage, finely shredded
1 cup Shredded carrots
1/2 cup Dried cranberries (or dried cherries)
1/2 cup Sliced almonds, toasted
1/4 cup Fresh cilantro, chopped
1 tbsp Toasted sesame seeds (for garnish)
Sesame-Ginger Vinaigrette:
3 tbsp Olive oil (or avocado oil)
1 tbsp Toasted sesame oil
2 tbsp Rice vinegar
1 tbsp Low-sodium soy sauce or tamari
1 tbsp Honey or maple syrup
1 tsp Fresh ginger, grated
1 clove Garlic, minced
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Whisk Dressing: In a small jar or bowl, combine olive oil, toasted sesame oil, rice vinegar, soy sauce, honey, grated ginger, and minced garlic. Shake or whisk until fully emulsified.
2. Combine Base: In a large salad bowl, combine shredded green cabbage, red cabbage, carrots, dried cranberries, toasted almonds, and chopped cilantro.
3. Add Chicken: Add the warm or chilled sliced grilled chicken to the bowl.
4. Toss & Garnish: Drizzle the vinaigrette over the salad right before serving. Toss gently to coat, sprinkle toasted sesame seeds on top, and enjoy!
Chef’s Tips
Short-Cut Prep: Save time by using a store-bought bagged coleslaw mix or shredded crunch mix!
Extra Crunch: Toss in a handful of chow mein noodles or crushed wonton strips right before serving for extra crunch.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving / 4 Servings Yield)
Servings: 4 main-course salads
Calories: ~380 kcal
Protein: 28g
Net Carbs: 19g
Fat: 20g
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How long does this salad stay fresh?
Undressed salad will stay crisp in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 to 4 days. Keep the dressing and toasted nuts separate until right before serving!