Ultimate Homemade Chinese Chicken Salad with Zesty Sesame Dressing: A Fresh & Flavorful Meal Prep Favorite

Say goodbye to generic deli counter salads and hello to your new favorite homemade recipe: Chinese Chicken Salad with Sesame Dressing. This incredibly flavorful salad is a vibrant symphony of crisp, fresh vegetables, tender shredded chicken, satisfyingly crunchy almonds, and bursts of sweet Mandarin oranges, all lovingly tossed in a homemade savory-sweet sesame dressing. Whether you’re seeking a light yet hearty lunch, a refreshing dinner, or a crowd-pleasing dish for your next potluck gathering, this Chinese Chicken Salad is destined to become a staple in your recipe rotation, offering a taste experience that truly elevates your meal!

That generous bowl brimming with vibrant colors, incredible flavor, and satisfying crunch is a frequent guest at my dinner table, often at least once a week. It’s fast, incredibly fresh, and delightfully figure-friendly. My mom’s classic recipe for Chinese Chicken Salad has become my absolute favorite alternative to the usual takeout options from DoorDash, Uber Eats, and GrubHub. This isn’t just a salad; it’s a complete meal experience that leaves you feeling satisfied and energized.

This truly colorful mix boasts a plethora of enticing tastes and textures that work in perfect harmony. You’ll find the delicate crispness of shredded purple cabbage and fresh romaine lettuce, the tender bite of perfectly cooked chicken, the delightful crunch of toasted almonds, refreshing cucumber batons, and of course, those classic, sweet and tangy Mandarin oranges. Every single ingredient plays a crucial role in creating a dynamic and exciting bite. All these fantastic elements are then exquisitely tossed in a homemade sesame dressing that strikes a perfect balance: subtly sweet, wonderfully tangy, and just a touch sour to awaken your palate.

While many enjoy Chinese chicken salad from their local deli or favorite Asian restaurant, making it at home offers unparalleled benefits. You gain complete control over the quality and freshness of your ingredients, ensuring your salad is free from unwanted preservatives or excessive sodium often found in store-bought versions. Crafting your own dressing allows you to customize the sweet-to-savory ratio precisely to your liking, creating a flavor profile that’s truly your own. Furthermore, preparing this dish at home is often more cost-effective and provides a wholesome, satisfying meal that tastes infinitely better because it’s made with care in your own kitchen.

What makes this Chinese Chicken Salad so utterly irresistible? It’s all about the balance of textures and flavors. Each component contributes to a harmonious whole:

• The Crunch Factor: From the crisp romaine and purple cabbage to the cucumber and toasted almonds, and especially the crispy chow mein noodles, the varying levels of crunch are essential. They provide a delightful mouthfeel that makes every bite exciting.
• The Protein Power: Tender, shredded chicken breast is the backbone of this salad, providing lean protein that makes it a filling and satisfying meal. Its mild flavor acts as a perfect canvas for the vibrant dressing.
• Sweet & Tangy Accents: Mandarin oranges add a pop of bright, citrusy sweetness and a soft, juicy texture that beautifully contrasts with the other ingredients, cutting through the richness of the dressing.
• The Heart of the Salad: The Dressing: A homemade sesame dressing is what truly ties everything together. Its combination of nutty sesame oil, tangy rice wine vinegar, and a touch of sweetness creates that signature Asian-inspired flavor that makes this salad so addictive.

This Chinese chicken salad is ideal for meal prep and lunches on-the-go. Simply layer the ingredients into mason jars and stash the dressing in an airtight container. When you’re ready to dig in, pour the dressing into the jar, seal it, shake it and get your salad on! This method keeps your ingredients fresh and crisp until you’re ready to enjoy.

If you’re looking for more ways to ditch the delivery services and still satisfy those tempting takeout cravings with homemade goodness, don’t miss these fantastic recipes for Baked Orange Chicken, savory Chicken Egg Rolls with Ginger-Soy Dip, and irresistible Sticky Pineapple Chicken. Each offers that authentic flavor without leaving your kitchen.

Crafting this incredible Chinese Chicken Salad starts with selecting high-quality, fresh ingredients. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need and why each component is vital for that perfect balance of flavor and texture:

FOR THE SALAD:

• Shredded cooked chicken: For ultimate convenience and flavor, I often opt for a store-bought rotisserie chicken. Simply shred the meat (and discard the skin) for a fast, fresh, and perfectly seasoned base. One rotisserie chicken typically provides just enough meat for 4 to 6 servings. Alternatively, you can poach or grill chicken breasts and shred them yourself for a homemade touch.
• Romaine lettuce: The backbone of many great salads, romaine lettuce provides a crisp, refreshing base. To achieve that ideal shredded texture, wash and thoroughly dry the leaves, remove the tough core, then stack them neatly, roll them tightly, and slice thinly to create elegant, uniform strips. Fluff the shreds to separate them, and your lettuce is ready to integrate into your vibrant salad!
• Purple cabbage: This ingredient is a true powerhouse, adding a vibrant pop of color that makes the salad visually stunning, along with a delightful crunch and a slightly sweet, earthy flavor. Don’t skip it for that essential textural contrast.
• Scallions: Also known as green onions, scallions provide a mild, fresh onion flavor that complements the other ingredients without overpowering them. Use both the white and green parts for maximum flavor and color.
• Cucumber: I’m a big fan of English cucumbers, often labeled as seedless cucumbers, because of their tender skin and minimal seeds, which means no peeling or de-seeding necessary. You’ll typically find them wrapped in plastic in the produce section. However, a regular cucumber works perfectly well too; just peel it and scoop out larger seeds if you prefer. Slice them into batons for an appealing shape and satisfying crunch.
• Almonds: Sliced or slivered almonds are key for adding a deep nutty flavor and a crucial crunchy texture. For an elevated experience, I highly recommend toasting them. Simply spread them in a dry skillet over medium heat and cook until golden brown and wonderfully fragrant. This simple step significantly enhances their flavor and crispness.
• Crispy chow mein noodles: These golden, crunchy noodles are a signature element of Chinese chicken salad. Look for them in the international aisle of your grocery store or within the Asian foods section. Pro Tip: To ensure they maintain their maximum crispness, add the chow mein noodles to the salad mixture just before you’re ready to serve and toss.
• Mandarin oranges: These sweet, juicy segments offer a delightful burst of sweetness and a soft, succulent texture. I prefer the canned or fruit cup varieties packed in juice (rather than heavy syrup) for a lighter option. If mandarins are in season, fresh segments are an excellent choice!

FOR THE DRESSING:

• Sesame oil: This is the star of the dressing, contributing a distinctive, rich, nutty, and aromatic flavor that is quintessential to Asian-inspired dishes. A little goes a long way in providing depth.
• Rice wine vinegar: Bringing a crucial tangy-sweet and slightly acidic element to the dressing, rice wine vinegar balances the richness of the sesame oil. If seasoned rice wine vinegar isn’t available, you can use plain rice vinegar and add a pinch more sugar, or even apple cider vinegar as a suitable substitute.
• Oil: A neutral-flavored vegetable oil, such as canola or grapeseed oil, is ideal as it won’t interfere with the delicate flavors of the sesame. A light olive oil can also work well if you prefer.
• Sugar: A touch of granulated sugar is essential to balance the acidity of the vinegar and enhance the overall savory-sweet profile of the dressing. You have the flexibility to adjust the amount of sugar to your personal taste, adding more for a sweeter dressing or less for a tangier kick.
• Salt and pepper: These fundamental seasonings are added to taste, bringing out and enhancing all the individual flavors within the dressing and salad. Start with the recommended amount and adjust as needed.

See the comprehensive recipe card below for precise measurements and quantities of all ingredients.

You’ll be delighted by how incredibly simple and quick it is to prepare this vibrant Asian-inspired salad! Once your ingredients are prepped and ready, assembling this flavorful dish is a breeze, involving just two straightforward steps:

1. **Combine Salad Ingredients:** In a generously sized mixing bowl, artfully combine all of your prepared salad ingredients. Use tongs or clean hands to gently but thoroughly toss them together. This ensures an even distribution of every component, so you get a perfect mix of flavors and textures in each bite. Make sure not to add the crispy chow mein noodles at this stage if you are preparing in advance.
2. **Whisk and Dress:** In a separate, smaller bowl, vigorously whisk together all the dressing ingredients until they are thoroughly combined and emulsified. The dressing should have a consistent texture and color. Once ready, pour this luscious dressing over the combined salad ingredients. Toss again, ensuring every piece of lettuce, chicken, and vegetable is evenly coated in the savory-sweet dressing.

That’s truly it! Your delightful homemade Chinese Chicken Salad is now ready to be served and savored. Enjoy the freshness, the crunch, and the incredible flavors that come alive with every forkful.

This Chinese Chicken Salad is a fantastic candidate for meal prepping, allowing you to enjoy healthy, delicious lunches throughout the week. Here’s how to maximize freshness:

• Separate Components: Prepare and chop all your salad ingredients (lettuce, cabbage, chicken, cucumber, scallions, oranges, almonds) and store them in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator. This prevents sogginess.
• Dressing on the Side: Always store the sesame dressing in its own airtight container. It can be prepared up to 5 days in advance and kept in the fridge.
• Mason Jar Method: For convenient grab-and-go lunches, layer your salad in mason jars. Start with the dressing at the bottom, followed by denser vegetables like cucumber and cabbage, then chicken, almonds, and finally the lettuce on top. This keeps the greens from getting soggy.
• Add Crispy Elements Last: The crispy chow mein noodles are best added right before serving to maintain their crunch. If adding to a mason jar, keep them in a small separate baggie until ready to eat.
• Shelf Life: Stored separately, the salad components will remain fresh for 3-4 days in the refrigerator. Once dressed, the salad is best enjoyed immediately but can be stored for up to 1 day, though the crispy elements will soften.

One of the best aspects of this Chinese Chicken Salad recipe is its adaptability. Feel free to get creative and tailor it to your personal preferences or what you have on hand:

• Protein Power-Ups: Instead of chicken, consider shredded cooked turkey (a great way to use Thanksgiving leftovers!), grilled shrimp, pan-fried tofu for a vegetarian option, or even sliced pork tenderloin.
• Boost Your Veggies: Enhance the nutritional value and texture by adding extra vegetables such as shredded carrots, thinly sliced bell peppers (red, yellow, or orange), snap peas, edamame, or water chestnuts for extra crunch.
• Nutty Alternatives: While almonds are classic, try toasted cashews, peanuts, or even sunflower seeds for a different flavor profile and crunch.
• Spice It Up: If you enjoy a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing, or drizzle a touch of sriracha over the finished salad.
• Noodle Fun: For a heartier salad, you could incorporate cooked and chilled ramen noodles or rice vermicelli along with, or in place of, the crispy chow mein noodles.
• Herbaceous Additions: A sprinkle of fresh cilantro or mint can add another layer of fresh, aromatic flavor.

While this Chinese chicken salad is wonderfully hearty and satisfying enough to be served as a stand-alone meal, it also pairs beautifully with a variety of Asian-inspired dishes that harmoniously complement its flavors and textures. Here are a few of my top recommendations to create a more expansive and delightful meal:

• Crispy Baked Spring Rolls: Their warm, crispy exterior and savory filling offer a perfect textural contrast.
• Chicken Potstickers: These tender, pan-fried dumplings with a savory dipping sauce make an excellent appetizer or side.
• Air Fryer Cream Cheese Wontons: For a creamy, crunchy, and slightly sweet treat that balances the main salad.
• Beef Lo Mein: A classic noodle dish with rich, savory flavors that would make for a fulfilling carbohydrate pairing.
• … and don’t forget the delightful and fun Homemade Fortune Cookies for a sweet ending!

Common Questions

If you’re a fan of the vibrant flavors and fresh ingredients found in this Chinese Chicken Salad, then you’re in for a treat with these other delicious Asian-inspired salad recipes:

• Chinese Chicken Pasta Salad with Sesame Dressing
• Chilled Ramen Noodle Salad with Peanut Dressing
• Thai Beef Salad with Lime Dressing
• Thai Chicken Pasta Salad
• Soba Noodle Salad with Peanut Dressing

Craving more delicious recipes and culinary inspiration? Subscribe to Just a Taste to get new recipes, convenient meal plans, and a delightful newsletter delivered straight to your inbox! And be sure to stay connected with us on social media via Facebook, TikTok, Pinterest, and Instagram for all the latest updates, behind-the-scenes glimpses, and mouth-watering content!

Main Course

Chinese Chicken Salad with Sesame Dressing

Fast, fresh, and wonderfully figure-friendly, this homemade Chinese Chicken Salad with its vibrant medley of ingredients and savory-sweet sesame dressing has become my ultimate go-to alternative to any takeout cravings. It’s a wholesome meal that doesn’t compromise on flavor!

Author: Kelly Senyei

4.84 from 18 votes

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 20 minutes mins

Servings 6 servings

Print Recipe

Ingredients 

For the salad:

• ▢ 4 cups shredded cooked chicken (See Kelly’s Notes)
• ▢ 3 cups shredded Romaine lettuce
• ▢ 2 cups shredded purple cabbage
• ▢ 2 scallions, thinly sliced (white and green parts)
• ▢ 1 medium cucumber, thinly sliced into batons
• ▢ 1/3 cup sliced almonds
• ▢ 1 cup crispy chow mein noodles
• ▢ 1 cup Mandarin oranges

For the dressing:

• ▢ 3 Tablespoons sesame oil
• ▢ 1/4 cup seasoned rice wine vinegar
• ▢ 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• ▢ 2 Tablespoons sugar
• ▢ 1 teaspoon salt
• ▢ 1/4 teaspoon fresh black pepper

Instructions 

• In a large bowl, combine all of the salad ingredients (excluding the crispy chow mein noodles if preparing in advance), tossing until well mixed and evenly distributed.
• In a small bowl, thoroughly whisk together all the dressing ingredients until smooth. Pour the dressing over the salad, then toss gently but thoroughly to ensure every component is beautifully coated. Add crispy chow mein noodles just before serving for ultimate crunch.

Kelly’s Notes

• For convenience, I often purchase a rotisserie chicken and shred the meat (discarding the skin). This provides a quick, fresh, and perfectly portioned amount of meat for 4 to 6 servings.
• Toasting the almonds is highly recommended! A few minutes in a dry skillet over medium heat brings out their nutty flavor and adds an extra layer of crunch.
• To keep the chow mein noodles perfectly crisp, always add them to the salad right before serving. If preparing for meal prep, store them separately.
• ★ Did you make this recipe? Don’t forget to give it a star rating below! Your feedback helps other home cooks!

Nutrition

Calories: 351kcal, Carbohydrates: 9g, Protein: 23g, Fat: 25g, Saturated Fat: 10g, Cholesterol: 72mg, Sodium: 660mg, Potassium: 469mg, Fiber: 2g, Sugar: 6g, Vitamin A: 2485IU, Vitamin C: 20.2mg, Calcium: 58mg, Iron: 1.3mg

Did you try this recipe?

Leave a comment below with your star rating!