There’s something irresistible about the perfect balance of crunch, freshness, and bold flavor in a well-made Chinese Chicken Salad. It’s light yet satisfying, making it an ideal meal for busy days, meal prepping, or even entertaining guests.
With juicy rotisserie chicken, crisp cabbage, and a zesty homemade dressing, this salad delivers a punch of flavor without the heaviness of traditional creamy salads.
But the real secret? Toasted ramen noodles, slivered almonds, and sesame seeds—they add the perfect crunch, making every bite a textural delight. If you love meals that are easy to make, packed with protein, and bursting with fresh flavors, this recipe is a must-try.
Whether you serve it solo or pair it with something heartier, like this Orange Marmalade Chicken or a comforting Chicken and Rice Casserole, this salad will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen.
It’s no wonder this dish is gaining popularity—not only is it incredibly versatile, but it’s also a nutrient-dense option for those looking to eat healthier without sacrificing flavor. Studies show that meals high in lean protein and fiber can help keep you full longer, making this a fantastic weight-friendly choice.
Why This Recipe Stand Out?
- Unbeatable crunch factor – The combination of cabbage, almonds, and toasted ramen makes every bite exciting. No more boring salads!
- Quick and fuss-free – Using rotisserie chicken cuts down prep time, making this a 30-minute meal perfect for busy days.
- Easily customizable – Swap in red cabbage, shredded carrots, or even mandarin oranges for a fresh twist.
- Healthier than takeout – No heavy dressings, just a light, tangy vinaigrette that enhances the natural flavors.
- Great for meal prep – It stays crisp for hours, making it a perfect lunchbox option.
Chinese Chicken Salad Recipe
Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Small bowl (for dressing)
- Whisk
- Skillet (for toasting)
- Cutting board & knife
- Tongs or salad spoons
Ingredients
Salad:
- 1 rotisserie chicken meat removed and shredded
- ½ medium head cabbage chopped
- 4 green onions sliced
- 1 3 ounce package ramen noodles (such as Nissin® Top Ramen)
- 3 tablespoons sesame seeds
- 3 tablespoons slivered almonds
Dressing:
- ½ cup olive oil
- 3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons white sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
Instructions
- Shred the chicken – Remove meat from the rotisserie chicken and shred it into bite-sized pieces.
- Chop the veggies – Finely chop cabbage and slice green onions.
- Toast the crunch – In a dry skillet, toast the ramen noodles (crushed), almonds, and sesame seeds until golden.
- Make the dressing – Whisk olive oil, vinegar, sugar, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl.
- Assemble the salad – Combine chicken, cabbage, and green onions in a large bowl.
- Add crunch & dress – Toss in the toasted ramen, almonds, and sesame seeds, then pour the dressing over.
- Mix & serve – Toss everything well and serve immediately for the best crunch.
Nutrition Info:
| Nutrition | Value |
| Calories | 361kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 13g |
| Protein | 15g |
| Fat | 29g |
| Sugar | 7g |
| Sodium | 486mg |
Creative Variations To Elevate Your Chinese Chicken Salad!
- Swap the ramen for crispy wonton strips – If you want an extra light and airy crunch, replace the toasted ramen with homemade or store-bought wonton strips. It gives the salad a more delicate, flaky texture.
- Add a spicy peanut twist – Mix a tablespoon of peanut butter into the dressing for a rich, nutty depth of flavor. You can also sprinkle crushed honey-roasted peanuts instead of almonds for a little sweet-savory balance.
- Infuse an umami boost – Add a few drops of toasted sesame oil or a teaspoon of miso paste to the dressing. It enhances the depth of flavor and pairs beautifully with the cabbage and chicken.
- Try a citrus-infused dressing – Swap apple cider vinegar for fresh lime or yuzu juice to brighten up the flavors. You can even zest an orange into the dressing for a hint of natural sweetness.
- Make it protein-packed – While chicken is great, try shredded duck for a more gourmet take, or go plant-based with crispy tofu or tempeh. Even shrimp works beautifully for a seafood twist.
- Turn it into lettuce wraps – Instead of serving this as a salad, spoon the mixture into butter lettuce cups for a handheld, fresh take. Perfect for parties!
- Give it a fermented kick – A little chopped kimchi stirred into the salad adds a slight heat and tanginess that plays well with the sweetness of the dressing.
John Lee’s love for cooking is deeply rooted in family tradition. Growing up, the men in his family took charge of the kitchen, turning every meal into a special occasion. From weekend barbecues to holiday feasts, food was more than sustenance—it was a way to connect.
Inspired by this upbringing, John developed a passion for creating dishes that bring people together. After meeting Joe Miller through mutual friends, he joined Food Landscape Insight to share his love for simple yet extraordinary cooking, crafting meals that tell a story and create lasting memories.
