Asian Chicken Salad Recipe

The Perfect Asian Chicken Salad Recipe for Fresh Dinner Joy

Asian chicken salad revolutionizes the typical lunch routine with its bold, dynamic profile.

Crisp vegetables dance alongside succulent protein, creating a symphony of textures and tastes.

Light yet substantial, this culinary creation refines ordinary ingredients into an extraordinary experience.

Bright, zesty notes intertwine with rich, umami undertones that awaken your palate.

The harmonious blend of ingredients promises a refreshing escape from mundane meal patterns.

Layers of complexity unfold with each carefully crafted bite, challenging traditional salad expectations.

Nutritious and exciting, this dish delivers a perfect balance of health and indulgence.

Asian Chicken Salad: A Fresh and Zesty Dish

  • Savor Sweet-Tangy Fusion: The honey and Dijon mustard dressing creates a perfect balance of sweetness and zesty flavor that dances across your taste buds.
  • Crunchy Texture Adventure: Crisp mixed greens, crunchy almonds, and crispy chow mein noodles deliver an exciting multi-textural experience in every single bite.
  • Quick Weeknight Dinner Hero: This salad comes together in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy professionals or families wanting a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
  • Protein-Packed Nutrition Boost: With 21 grams of protein from chicken and almonds, this salad provides a satisfying and nutritionally balanced meal that keeps you full and energized.

Must-Have Ingredients for Asian Chicken Salad

Dressing Ingredients:
  • Honey: Sweet liquid that balances the tangy flavors and adds depth to the dressing.
  • Mayonnaise: Creamy base that provides richness and smooth texture.
  • Dijon Mustard: Sharp condiment that adds a zesty kick and helps emulsify the dressing.
  • Vinegar: Acidic element that brightens the overall flavor profile.
  • Sesame Oil: Nutty oil that brings authentic Asian-inspired taste.
Protein:
  • Chicken Strips: Lean protein that makes the salad substantial and satisfying. Choose boneless, skinless chicken breast for best results.
Salad Base and Toppings:
  • Mixed Greens, Coleslaw: Fresh, crisp vegetables that provide a nutritious foundation for the salad. Choose a pre-mixed bag for convenience.
  • Almonds: Crunchy nuts that add texture and subtle nutty flavor. Sliced or slivered work best.
  • Chow Mein Noodles: Crispy noodles that give a signature Asian-style crunch to the salad.

How to Make Asian Chicken Salad

Step 1: Whip Up the Zesty Dressing

In a mixing bowl, combine:
  • Honey
  • Mayonnaise
  • Dijon mustard
  • Rice vinegar
  • Sesame oil

Whisk ingredients until smooth and chill in the refrigerator for maximum flavor infusion.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

Preheat oven according to chicken strip package instructions. Bake chicken strips until golden and fully cooked. Let cool for 5-10 minutes, then slice into thin, tender strips.

Step 3: Prepare the Salad Base

In a large serving bowl, mix together:
  • Mixed salad greens
  • Pre-shredded coleslaw mix

Toss gently to create a vibrant, crunchy foundation.

Step 4: Build Your Flavor Layers

Top the salad greens with:
  • Sliced chicken strips
  • Crunchy sliced almonds
  • Crispy chow mein noodles

Step 5: Drizzle and Serve

Pull out the chilled dressing and generously drizzle over the entire salad. Serve immediately to enjoy maximum crispness and flavor combination.

Tips for Perfect Asian Chicken Salad

  • Whisk Dressing Thoroughly: Blend ingredients until smooth and creamy for a consistent, well-integrated flavor profile.
  • Maximize Chicken Flavor: Pat chicken dry before baking to ensure crisp exterior and prevent excess moisture.
  • Toast Almonds Quickly: Lightly toast sliced almonds in a dry skillet for enhanced nutty taste and crunch.
  • Prep Ingredients Ahead: Chop chicken and mix salad components in advance to streamline final assembly.
  • Keep Noodles Crisp: Add chow mein noodles just before serving to maintain their signature crackly texture.

Storing and Reheating Asian Chicken Salad

  • Refrigerate: Store leftover Asian Chicken Salad in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Separate the dressing from the salad ingredients to prevent soggy greens and maintain crisp textures.
  • Chicken Storage: Keep sliced chicken and vegetables in separate containers to preserve their individual freshness and prevent moisture buildup.
  • Reheating Tip: Gently warm the chicken in a skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes. Add fresh chow mein noodles and almonds after warming to maintain their crunch, then drizzle with reserved dressing just before serving.

Pairing Asian Chicken Salad with Sides

  • Refresh with Crisp White Wine: Complement the Asian Chicken Salad's light, tangy flavors with a chilled Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, cutting through the creamy dressing and enhancing the salad's fresh ingredients.
  • Pair with Citrus-Infused Iced Tea: Brew a cool green tea with lemon or mandarin orange slices to mirror the salad's Asian-inspired profile, providing a refreshing and palate-cleansing companion.
  • Serve with Crunchy Edamame Appetizer: Start the meal with steamed edamame pods sprinkled with sea salt, offering a protein-rich bite that echoes the salad's nutty almonds and crisp chow mein noodles.
  • Cool Down with Lychee Sorbet: Finish the meal with a light, sweet lychee sorbet that complements the honey-based dressing and provides a delicate, exotic end to the dining experience.

Fun Variations of Asian Chicken Salad

  • Spicy Sriracha Fusion: Kick up the heat by mixing sriracha sauce into the dressing for a bold, zesty flavor profile that adds extra excitement to the classic chicken salad.
  • Mango Tropical Remix: Incorporate diced fresh mango and replace almonds with toasted macadamia nuts to create a tropical-inspired version with sweet and crunchy elements.
  • Sesame Ginger Refresh: Swap the original dressing with a vibrant sesame ginger blend, adding chopped cilantro and green onions for an authentic Asian-inspired taste sensation.
  • Herb-Packed Green Boost: Mix in fresh herbs like mint and basil with the greens, and sprinkle edamame for additional protein and a garden-fresh twist to the traditional recipe.
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Asian Chicken Salad Recipe

Asian Chicken Salad Recipe


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4.8 from 15 reviews

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Crisp Asian chicken salad offers a refreshing medley of tangy flavors and crunchy textures. Zesty dressing and tender chicken create a perfect balance that will transport you to the streets of Southeast Asia with each delightful bite.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Protein:

  • 4 pieces Tyson’s Crispy Chicken Strips

Salad Base:

  • 4 cups mixed greens
  • 2 cups bagged coleslaw mix
  • ¼ cup sliced almonds
  • ⅓ cup chow mein noodles

Dressing Components:

  • ⅓ cup (79 ml) honey
  • ½ cup (120 ml) mayonnaise
  • 2 teaspoons (10 ml) Dijon mustard
  • 3 tablespoons (45 ml) rice wine vinegar
  • ½ teaspoon (2.5 ml) sesame oil

Instructions

  1. Whisk together honey, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, rice vinegar, and sesame oil in a small bowl, then refrigerate the dressing to allow flavors to meld and achieve a refreshing chill.
  2. Preheat the oven according to chicken strip package directions, arrange chicken strips on a baking sheet, and roast until fully cooked and golden brown.
  3. Allow chicken strips to cool for 5-7 minutes at room temperature, then slice into thin, diagonal strips for optimal salad distribution.
  4. In a large serving bowl, combine fresh mixed salad greens with pre-shredded coleslaw mix, creating a textured and vibrant base.
  5. Artfully layer the sliced chicken strips over the green mixture, ensuring even coverage across the salad surface.
  6. Sprinkle a generous handful of sliced almonds and crispy chow mein noodles over the chicken, adding contrasting crunch and nutty flavor.
  7. Remove the chilled dressing from the refrigerator and drizzle evenly across the salad just before serving to maintain the crisp texture of the noodles and prevent sogginess.

Notes

  • Leftovers stay fresh when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
  • Customize the salad by swapping chicken with grilled tofu or shrimp for varied protein options.
  • Toast almonds beforehand to enhance their nutty flavor and add extra crunch to the dish.
  • Prepare dressing a day ahead to allow flavors to meld and intensify.
  • Use rotisserie chicken as a time-saving alternative to baking chicken strips.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner
  • Method: Sautéing
  • Cuisine: Asian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 690 kcal
  • Sugar: 40g
  • Sodium: 1,200mg
  • Fat: 45g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 30g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 58g
  • Fiber: 5g
  • Protein: 21g
  • Cholesterol: 50mg
Mary Ellen

Mary Ellen

Founder, Pastry Chef & Recipe Developer

Expertise

  • Artisanal Bread Making
  • Exquisite Pastry Craftsmanship
  • Creative Dessert Presentation
  • Flavor Profile Development
  • Menu Concept Innovation.

Education

Savannah Technical College

  • Program: Associate of Applied Science in Culinary Baking & Pastry Arts
  • Focus: A specialized program focusing on baking and pastry fundamentals, including bread making, cake decorating, and advanced pastry techniques. Developed creative presentation skills and an understanding of ingredient functions through lab-based practice.

Mary Ellen is the heart and soul of thatsmyhome.com. As the founder, pastry chef, and recipe developer, she refined her skills at Savannah Technical College with an Associate of Applied Science in Culinary Baking & Pastry Arts. 

Mary blends classic techniques with modern twists to make artisanal breads, beautifully crafted pastries, and desserts full of unique flavor. Her passion is evident in every recipe, and she enjoys sharing her expertise through hands-on pastry workshops and insightful articles in local culinary magazines.

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