If you’re looking for a light yet satisfying meal, this Asian Chicken Salad with Sesame Dressing is the perfect choice. Packed with tender chicken, crisp cabbage, colorful vegetables, crunchy almonds, and a flavorful homemade sesame dressing, this salad delivers fresh flavors and plenty of texture in every bite.

Whether you’re preparing a healthy lunch, an easy weeknight dinner, or a refreshing dish for meal prep, this salad comes together in just 25 minutes. The homemade sesame dressing combines toasted sesame oil, soy sauce, rice vinegar, ginger, garlic, and a touch of honey for a delicious balance of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors.

Serve it on its own or pair it with soup, spring rolls, or steamed rice for a complete meal.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ready in just 25 minutes
• Fresh, colorful, and nutritious
• Packed with lean protein
• Homemade sesame ginger dressing
• Perfect for meal prep
• Naturally crunchy and flavorful
• Great for lunch or dinner

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Ingredients

For the Salad

• 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or sliced
• 3 cups green cabbage, shredded
• 2 cups purple cabbage, shredded
• 1 cup carrots, julienned
• 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 cup cucumber, sliced
• 3 green onions, sliced
• ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• ¼ cup sliced almonds, toasted
• 2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds
• 1 cup crispy wonton strips (optional)

For the Sesame Dressing

• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
• 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

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Kitchen Equipment

• Large salad bowl
• Small mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Chef’s knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons

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How to Make Asian Chicken Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

Wash and dry all the vegetables thoroughly.

Shred the cabbage, julienne the carrots, slice the bell pepper and cucumber, and chop the cilantro and green onions.

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Step 2: Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together:

• Soy sauce
• Rice vinegar
• Sesame oil
• Olive oil
• Honey
• Lime juice
• Ginger
• Garlic
• Black pepper
• Red pepper flakes (if using)

Whisk until smooth and well combined.

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Step 3: Assemble the Salad

In a large serving bowl, combine:

• Green cabbage
• Purple cabbage
• Carrots
• Bell pepper
• Cucumber
• Chicken
• Green onions
• Cilantro

Toss gently.

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Step 4: Add the Dressing

Pour the sesame dressing over the salad.

Toss until everything is evenly coated.

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Step 5: Garnish

Sprinkle with toasted almonds, sesame seeds, and crispy wonton strips.

Serve immediately.

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Pro Tips

• Use rotisserie chicken for an even quicker meal.
• Toast the almonds for extra flavor.
• Chill the salad before serving for maximum freshness.
• Add the dressing just before serving to keep the vegetables crisp.
• Slice vegetables thinly for the best texture.
• Double the dressing for meal prep.
• Fresh ginger provides the brightest flavor.
• Toast sesame seeds before using.
• Add avocado for extra creaminess.
• Store crunchy toppings separately.

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Delicious Variations

Spicy Asian Chicken Salad

Add sriracha or chili garlic sauce to the dressing.

Peanut Chicken Salad

Whisk 2 tablespoons of peanut butter into the dressing for a creamy twist.

Mandarin Chicken Salad

Add mandarin orange segments for a sweet, citrusy flavor.

Teriyaki Chicken Salad

Use grilled teriyaki chicken instead of plain chicken.

Vegetarian Version

Replace the chicken with baked tofu or edamame.

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What to Serve with Asian Chicken Salad

Pair this salad with:

• Vegetable spring rolls
• Miso soup
• Steamed jasmine rice
• Fried rice
• Dumplings
• Chicken satay
• Edamame
• Lettuce wraps
• Fresh fruit
• Iced green tea

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Storage Tips

Refrigerator

Store the salad and dressing separately in airtight containers for up to 3 days.

Meal Prep

Prepare the vegetables and dressing ahead of time, then combine just before eating.

Avoid

Do not freeze the salad, as the fresh vegetables will lose their crisp texture after thawing.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Dressing the salad too early
• Skipping the toasted sesame oil
• Using soggy vegetables
• Overdressing the salad
• Forgetting crunchy toppings
• Using bottled ginger instead of fresh
• Not drying the vegetables after washing
• Mixing the salad too aggressively

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Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 390
• Protein: 30g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fat: 22g
• Fiber: 5g
• Sugar: 9g
• Sodium: 640mg

Nutrition values are approximate and may vary depending on ingredients used.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Yes! Rotisserie chicken is a convenient and flavorful option that saves time.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Absolutely. Store the dressing separately and toss everything together just before serving.

What cabbage works best?

A combination of green and purple cabbage adds color, crunch, and flavor.

Is this salad gluten-free?

It can be if you use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari and omit the wonton strips.

Can I use another protein?

Yes. Grilled shrimp, steak, salmon, or tofu all work well in this salad.

How long does the sesame dressing last?

Stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, it stays fresh for up to 5 days. Shake or whisk before using.

Can I add noodles?

Yes! Rice noodles or crispy chow mein noodles make a delicious addition.

Is this recipe good for meal prep?

Definitely. Keep the dressing and crunchy toppings separate until you’re ready to eat for the freshest texture.

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Final Thoughts

This Asian Chicken Salad with Sesame Dressing is a vibrant, flavorful meal that’s perfect for busy weekdays, meal prep, or casual entertaining. Loaded with crisp vegetables, lean chicken, crunchy toppings, and a homemade sesame ginger dressing, it offers the perfect balance of freshness, texture, and savory flavor. Whether served as a light lunch or a satisfying dinner, this healthy salad is sure to become a regular favorite in your recipe collection. Enjoy every crunchy, refreshing bite!