Chinese Chicken Salad

Introduction

Chinese Chicken Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish that has quickly become a favorite in our household. It combines crunchy vegetables, tender chicken, and a delightful sesame ginger dressing that brings all the flavors together beautifully. Whenever I make this salad, my family can’t help but gather around the table, excited to dig in. The combination of textures and flavors is simply irresistible, making it the perfect meal for any occasion. Whether it’s a light lunch, a potluck dish, or a quick weeknight dinner, this salad never disappoints!

Ingredients

For the salad:

• 1 head romaine, shredded
• 4 cups shredded napa cabbage
• 3 cups leftover shredded rotisserie chicken
• 1 (15-ounce) can mandarin oranges, drained
• 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro leaves
• 1/2 cup roasted salted cashews
• 3 green onions, thinly sliced
• 2 cups crispy wonton strips, homemade or store-bought
• 2 teaspoons toasted sesame seeds

For the sesame ginger dressing:

• 1/4 cup rice vinegar
• 3 tablespoons orange marmalade
• 2 1/2 tablespoons canola oil
• 2 1/2 tablespoons toasted sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon reduced sodium soy sauce
• 2 teaspoons freshly grated ginger
• 2 teaspoons toasted sesame seeds
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together rice vinegar, orange marmalade, canola oil, sesame oil, soy sauce, ginger, sesame seeds, salt, and pepper until well combined.
2. Assemble the salad: In a large bowl, combine the shredded romaine lettuce, napa cabbage, rotisserie chicken, mandarin oranges, cilantro, cashews, and green onions.
3. Toss with dressing: Pour the sesame ginger dressing over the salad mixture and gently toss to combine, ensuring everything is evenly coated.
4. Serve: Serve immediately, topped with crispy wonton strips and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for an extra crunch and flavor boost.

Enjoy your delicious Chinese Chicken Salad!

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Servings: 6
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 7g
• Sodium: 450mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 17g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 14g
• Cholesterol: 50mg

Preparation Time

• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes

How to Serve

• Serve as a main dish: Perfect for a light lunch or dinner.
• Make it a side: Pair it with grilled meats or Asian-inspired dishes.
• Add protein: Include additional proteins like shrimp or tofu for a heartier option.
• Garnish: Top with extra cilantro, sesame seeds, or a squeeze of lime for added flavor.
• Serve chilled: This salad is best enjoyed fresh but can be refrigerated for a couple of hours before serving.

Additional Tips

1. Use leftover chicken: Rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and adds incredible flavor.
2. Fresh herbs: For an extra burst of flavor, try adding fresh mint or basil.
3. Crunch factor: Ensure your wonton strips stay crispy by adding them just before serving.
4. Customizable: Feel free to add other veggies like bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas.
5. Dressing storage: If you have leftover dressing, store it in the fridge for up to a week.

Recipe Variations

• Vegan version: Substitute chicken with shredded tofu and use agave syrup in the dressing instead of orange marmalade.
• Low-carb option: Replace the mandarin oranges with sliced bell peppers and omit the cashews for a lighter version.
• Add fruits: Include fresh fruits like diced apples or pears for a sweet twist.
• Spicy kick: Add sliced jalapeños or a dash of sriracha to the dressing for heat.
• Nut-free: Replace cashews with sunflower seeds or omit them entirely if allergic.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with: Serve alongside spring rolls, dumplings, or grilled chicken for a complete meal.
• Bento box: Pack this salad in a bento box for a delicious lunch on the go.
• Picnic: Perfect for outdoor gatherings, this salad holds up well and is easy to transport.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: This salad is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Wonton strips: Store leftover wonton strips separately to maintain their crunch.
• Dressing: Store any leftover dressing in the fridge for up to a week. Shake well before using.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use different types of cabbage?
   Yes, you can substitute with green cabbage or red cabbage for variation.
2. Is this salad gluten-free?
   To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free soy sauce and ensure your wonton strips are gluten-free.
3. How can I make this salad spicier?
   Add sliced jalapeños or increase the amount of ginger in the dressing.
4. Can I prepare this salad in advance?
   Yes, you can prep the ingredients and store them separately in the fridge, mixing just before serving.
5. What can I use instead of mandarin oranges?
   You can substitute with fresh orange segments or sliced peaches.
6. How do I store leftovers?
   Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
7. Can I use a different type of oil?
   Yes, feel free to use avocado oil or any neutral oil instead of canola oil.
8. How do I make homemade wonton strips?
   Cut wonton wrappers into strips, fry them in oil until golden, and drain on paper towels.
9. Is this salad kid-friendly?
   Yes, the flavors are mild, and kids often enjoy the crunch of the wonton strips.
10. Can I add more protein?
    Absolutely! Grilled shrimp, steak, or tofu are excellent additions.

Conclusion

Chinese Chicken Salad is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. Its fresh ingredients and zesty dressing make it a standout dish that can easily be customized to suit your preferences. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a colorful dish for a gathering, this salad is sure to impress. So gather your ingredients, whip up that dressing, and enjoy a delightful bowl of Chinese Chicken Salad that your family will love!

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