Name: Chinese Chicken Salad Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Chinese
Ingredients: 1/4 cup light olive oil (or vegetable oil); 3 Tbsp creamy peanut butter; 2 Tbsp toasted sesame oil; 2 Tbsp soy sauce; 2 Tbsp rice vinegar; 2 Tbsp fresh lime juice; 2 Tbsp honey; 1 Tbsp peeled and minced ginger; 1 1/2 tsp minced garlic (1 large clove); 1/2 tsp Chinese five spice (optional); 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, or more to taste); 1/2 large head romaine lettuce, shredded; 1/2 medium head Napa cabbage, cored and shredded; 3 cups cooked shredded rotisserie chicken breast; 1 large red bell pepper, cored, seeded and sliced; 1 large carrot, julienned; 4 green onions, sliced; 1/2 cup roughly chopped cilantro; 1/2 cup roughly chopped peanuts (or cashews); 2 Tbsp toasted sesame seeds (optional); Fried wonton strips (homemade or store-bought, optional)

Jump to Recipe· 4.1 from 1 review

If you’re craving a salad that bursts with vibrant flavors and textures, this Chinese Chicken Salad Recipe is an absolute must-try. It’s a perfect harmony of crisp romaine and Napa cabbage, tender shredded chicken, crunchy peanuts, and a zingy, creamy peanut dressing that will make your taste buds sing. Whether for a light lunch, a quick dinner, or a party crowd-pleaser, this salad combines simplicity and sophistication in one delightful bowl.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A large white bowl sits on a white marbled surface, filled with six distinct layers of fresh ingredients carefully placed side by side. Starting from the top left, there is shredded pale green cabbage with a light yellow center, next to it is a pile of chopped dark green romaine lettuce. Below the lettuce is a bunch of green cilantro leaves, followed by rings of bright green sliced scallions at the bottom right. At the bottom center, there are thin strips of bright orange carrots, next to vivid red sliced bell peppers on the bottom left. In the middle of the bowl, on top of the vegetable layers, is a mound of white shredded cooked chicken. A pair of stainless steel tongs rests to the right of the bowl. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The ingredients in this Chinese Chicken Salad Recipe are simple yet essential, each playing a key role in creating that irresistible balance of creamy, crunchy, sweet, and tangy flavors. From the creamy peanut butter in the dressing to the fresh crunch of shredded cabbage, every element is a star.

1/4 cup light olive oil (or vegetable oil): Provides a smooth, neutral base for the dressing’s richness.
3 Tbsp creamy peanut butter: Adds the signature creamy texture and nutty flavor.
2 Tbsp toasted sesame oil: Brings a fragrant, nutty depth to the dressing.
2 Tbsp soy sauce: Offers a savory umami kick that enhances every bite.
2 Tbsp rice vinegar: Infuses a bright, mild acidity to balance the richness.
2 Tbsp fresh lime juice: Adds fresh citrus notes that brighten the overall flavor.
2 Tbsp honey: Sweetens the dressing just enough to round out tangy and savory elements.
1 Tbsp peeled and minced ginger: Contributes a warm, zesty spice with a hint of sweetness.
1 1/2 tsp minced garlic (1 large clove): Adds a punchy, aromatic foundation.
1/2 tsp Chinese five spice (optional): Provides a subtle complex blend of star anise, cloves, and cinnamon.
1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional): Offers a slight heat to wake up the palate.
1/2 large head romaine lettuce (shredded): Gives a crisp, refreshing base for the salad.
1/2 medium head Napa cabbage (cored and shredded): Adds a mild crunch and sweetness.
3 cups cooked shredded rotisserie chicken breast: Supplies juicy protein that makes this salad hearty.
1 large red bell pepper (cored, seeded, and sliced): Provides vibrant color and crisp sweetness.
1 large carrot (julienned): Brings bright color and a satisfying crunch.
4 green onions (sliced): Deliver a fresh, mild onion flavor.
1/2 cup rough chopped cilantro: Adds an herbaceous freshness.
1/2 cup rough chopped peanuts (or cashews): Offers delightful crunchy texture and nuttiness.
2 Tbsp toasted sesame seeds (optional): Sprinkle for extra nutty crunch and visual appeal.
Fried wonton strips (homemade or store-bought, optional): Give an addictive crispy topping for extra indulgence.

How to Make Chinese Chicken Salad Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Dressing

Whisk together the light olive oil, creamy peanut butter, toasted sesame oil, soy sauce, rice vinegar, fresh lime juice, honey, minced ginger, garlic, Chinese five spice, and red pepper flakes in a medium bowl. This dressing beautifully balances creamy, tangy, sweet, and spicy notes that make the salad unforgettable. For best results, chill the dressing in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to let the flavors meld together.

Step 2: Assemble the Salad Base

In a large serving bowl, combine the shredded romaine lettuce and Napa cabbage. These leafy greens create a fresh, crunchy canvas that will anchor the more flavorful ingredients and absorb the luscious dressing perfectly.

Step 3: Add Vegetables and Chicken

Next, toss in the shredded rotisserie chicken, sliced red bell pepper, julienned carrot, sliced green onions, and chopped cilantro. These ingredients provide a wonderful mix of color, freshness, and texture, enriching every bite and building layers of flavor.

Step 4: Garnish and Dress the Salad

Sprinkle rough chopped peanuts and toasted sesame seeds over the salad for extra crunch and nuttiness. If you like, add crispy fried wonton strips for a playful texture contrast. Pour the chilled dressing over the salad and gently toss everything together, ensuring a nicely coated, flavorful final dish. Serve immediately to enjoy the crispness of the greens along with the creamy peanut dressing.

How to Serve Chinese Chicken Salad Recipe

A large white bowl filled with a mixed salad showing three main layers: at the bottom, fresh chopped green lettuce with some light green and white leafy parts; in the middle, a mix of thin orange carrot sticks and red bell pepper strips; on the top, shredded light beige chicken pieces scattered along with light brown peanuts and black and white sesame seeds sprinkled across. A thick light brown dressing is drizzled unevenly all over the salad layers. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface with wooden salad spoons to the right, a small white bowl of mixed sesame seeds nearby, and a wooden bowl with shelled peanuts and a glass jar of dressing blurred in the background. A dark blue cloth is placed next to the bowl. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Besides the chopped peanuts and toasted sesame seeds, you can garnish with additional fresh cilantro leaves or thin slices of red chili for a pop of color and extra zing. Wonton strips are fantastic if you want that irresistible crunch, while a sprinkle of extra lime zest can brighten the flavors even more.

Side Dishes

This salad is wonderfully versatile! Pair it with simple steamed jasmine rice or garlic fried rice for a more filling meal. It also complements light Asian-inspired dishes like steamed dumplings, spring rolls, or hot miso soup, making your meal feel like a special dining experience.

Creative Ways to Present

For entertaining, serve the Chinese Chicken Salad Recipe in individual small bowls or lettuce cups for a fun handheld option. Another charming idea is to use hollowed-out bell pepper halves as edible serving vessels. Layering the salad in transparent glass bowls showcases the vibrant colors beautifully and makes a stunning centerpiece.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, keep the salad and dressing separate. Store the salad ingredients in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days to maintain crunch and freshness. Keep the dressing in a small jar or container alongside so you can dress servings just before eating.

Freezing

Freezing is not recommended for the Chinese Chicken Salad Recipe because the fresh vegetables and dressing will lose their texture and vibrant flavors once thawed. It’s best enjoyed fresh or within a couple of days refrigerated.

Reheating

This salad is meant to be served cold or at room temperature. The chicken can be gently warmed separately if you prefer, but avoid reheating the entire salad as the fresh greens and crunchy elements will wilt and become soggy.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of chicken?

Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is convenient and flavorful, but grilled, poached, or leftover cooked chicken all work wonderfully for this salad. Just shred or chop the chicken evenly for the best texture.

Is this salad gluten-free?

It can be gluten-free if you use gluten-free soy sauce and avoid adding fried wonton strips, or swap to gluten-free crispy toppings like rice crackers. Always check ingredient labels to be sure.

How spicy is this salad?

The heat level is mild by default, thanks to optional red pepper flakes which you can adjust to taste. The contrast of creamy peanut dressing and fresh veggies keeps it balanced, but feel free to add more chili for a spicier kick!

Can I make the dressing without peanut butter?

You can substitute with almond butter or tahini for a different nutty flavor, but peanut butter is key to the intended creamy texture and taste. Keep in mind the flavor profile will change slightly.

What can I do to keep the salad crunchy if making ahead?

Store the shredded lettuce, cabbage, and vegetables separately from the chicken, nuts, and dressing. Only combine and toss right before serving to preserve maximum crunch and freshness.

Final Thoughts

This Chinese Chicken Salad Recipe truly has it all — crisp textures, bold flavors, and a delightful dressing that ties everything together in perfect harmony. It’s an easy crowd-pleaser that never fails to impress, whether you’re whipping it up for a casual meal or a special gathering. Give it a go, and prepare yourself for a new favorite that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Chinese Chicken Salad Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need