This recipe combines crunchy textures with bold flavors, making every bite exciting. It’s quick to prepare, ideal for using leftover chicken, and great for warm days when you want something light yet filling. The tangy sesame dressing ties everything together beautifully, giving it that irresistible Asian-inspired taste.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
green cabbage, shredded red cabbage, shredded cooked chicken breast, shredded carrots, julienned green onions, sliced cilantro, chopped sliced almonds crispy chow mein noodles
soy sauce rice vinegar sesame oil honey or sugar fresh ginger, grated garlic, minced vegetable oil salt black pepper
Directions
In a large bowl, combine the shredded green cabbage, red cabbage, chicken, carrots, green onions, and cilantro.
In a separate bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, honey, grated ginger, minced garlic, vegetable oil, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Pour the dressing over the salad and toss thoroughly to coat all ingredients evenly.
Just before serving, add the sliced almonds and crispy chow mein noodles for extra crunch, and toss lightly.
Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is about 20 minutes, and no cooking time is required if using pre-cooked chicken, making the total time approximately 20 minutes.
Variations
You can swap chicken with shrimp, tofu, or grilled beef for a different protein option. Add mandarin orange segments for a sweet twist, or include edamame for extra texture and nutrition. For a spicy kick, mix in a bit of chili paste or sriracha into the dressing.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. For best results, keep the dressing separate until ready to serve to prevent sogginess.
This salad is best enjoyed cold and does not require reheating.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Yes, rotisserie chicken works perfectly and saves time.
How do I keep the salad crunchy?
Add the dressing and crunchy toppings just before serving.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the ingredients and dressing separately, then combine right before serving.
What can I use instead of chow mein noodles?
You can use crushed ramen noodles or omit them for a lighter version.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Use gluten-free soy sauce and ensure noodles are gluten-free if needed.
Can I make it vegetarian?
Yes, substitute chicken with tofu or omit it entirely.
What dressing works best for this salad?
A sesame-ginger dressing provides the best flavor balance.
Can I add fruit to this salad?
Yes, mandarin oranges or sliced apples add a nice sweetness.
How long does the dressing last?
The dressing can be stored in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Can I meal prep this recipe?
Yes, but store components separately to maintain freshness.
Conclusion
Chinese chicken coleslaw is a vibrant and delicious dish that brings together crunch, flavor, and freshness in one bowl. It’s easy to customize and perfect for quick lunches, potlucks, or light dinners. Once you try it, it’s sure to become a favorite go-to recipe.
This Chinese Chicken Coleslaw recipe is a crunchy, refreshing salad packed with shredded cabbage, tender chicken, and a flavorful sesame-ginger dressing. Perfect for a light lunch or side dish, this Asian-inspired coleslaw is quick, healthy, and bursting with sweet and savory flavors.
Author:Catherine
Prep Time:20 minutes
Cook Time:0 minutes
Total Time:20 minutes
Yield:4 servings
Category:Salad
Method:No-Cook
Cuisine:Asian-Inspired
Ingredients
For the Salad:
3 cups green cabbage, shredded
2 cups red cabbage, shredded
2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
1 cup carrots, julienned
3 green onions, sliced
¼ cup cilantro, chopped
½ cup sliced almonds
1 cup crispy chow mein noodles
For the Dressing:
3 tbsp soy sauce
2 tbsp rice vinegar
1 tbsp sesame oil
2 tbsp honey or sugar
1 tsp fresh ginger, grated
2 cloves garlic, minced
3 tbsp vegetable oil
Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
In a large bowl, combine green cabbage, red cabbage, chicken, carrots, green onions, and cilantro.
In a separate bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, honey, ginger, garlic, vegetable oil, salt, and pepper.
Pour the dressing over the salad and toss well to coat evenly.
Just before serving, add sliced almonds and crispy chow mein noodles. Toss lightly.
Serve immediately for maximum crunch and freshness.
Notes
Add dressing right before serving to keep the salad crisp.
Use rotisserie chicken for a quick shortcut.
Adjust sweetness or tanginess by balancing honey and vinegar.
