Asian-Inspired Chicken Salad

Craving a crunch that actually satisfies? Skip the boring greens and dive into this vibrant, protein-packed Asian-Inspired Chicken Salad—perfect for meal prep or a quick, flavor-filled dinner!  It also pairs perfectly with Miso Egg-Drop Soup.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Asian-Inspired Chicken Salad filled with crunchy veggies and a soy ginger peanut dressing

There is something so empowering about mastering a "shredded" salad. It’s vibrant, it stays crunchy in the fridge, and it’s a far cry from a limp bowl of lettuce. 

I first tried this salad from Trader Joe's - the Crunchy Slaw with Chicken, Crispie Noodles and Peanut Sauce. It still is a go-to takeout salad for me. But I couldn't always get to Trader Joe's so I decided to make my own version. I'm in heaven!

I love my Asian-Inspired Chicken Salad because it balances those savory, umami notes with a hint of sweetness from the honey and ginger. It’s one of those "bridge" recipes—hearty enough to be a full meal but light enough to leave you feeling energized. Plus, it’s incredibly forgiving; whether you are a dicing pro or just starting out, this dish always looks like a work of art on the table.

If you need to take this recipe on the go, it travels as well as the Trader Joe's original and is a perfect Mason Jar recipe to pack for lunch.

Here's the fun part. Because you make this from sturdy vegetables, it keeps its crunch. So you can make it for dinner one night, and have the leftovers for lunch, and they are just as good (or even better) the next day.

If you want to really stretch things, heat this up in the microwave for 30-40 seconds for a small bowl, and you have another dish packed with flavor and goodness.

Ingredient Spotlights

• The Cabbage Duo: Using both green and red cabbage provides a beautiful color contrast and a sturdy base that won’t wilt immediately. Honestly, I’ve made this and had it in the refrigerator for 2-3 days, and it was still crunchy on the 3rd day!

• Fresh Ginger & Garlic: These are the soul of the dressing. Grating the ginger fresh makes a world of difference in the aromatic profile. Start with my recommendations, and then if you like more ginger or garlic, feel free to adjust.

• Creamy Peanut Butter: This adds a rich, velvety texture to the dressing that ties the vinegar and oils together perfectly.  Plus, you get the added bonus of additional protein in the dish.

Variations

Cooking is all about making a recipe your own! If you want to change things up:

• Add Texture: Sprinkle in some crunchy Chinese noodles or slivered almonds for an extra snap.

• Garnish: A simple sprinkle of sesame seeds adds a professional touch.

• Serve it Warm: While delicious cold, you can actually warm this up slightly for a cozy evening meal. Yum!

What You Need to Make My Asian-Inspired Chicken Salad

Tools

• Large mixing bowl

• Whisk or small jar (for dressing)

• Chef’s knife and cutting board

• Measuring cups and spoons

Ingredients

• Salad Base: Shredded green and red cabbage, thinly sliced red pepper, shredded carrots, and diced chicken breast.

• Dressing: Vegetable oil, apple cider vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, honey, garlic, fresh ginger, peanut butter, kosher salt, and black pepper.

Here's the Recipe!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How should I store this salad?

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days. It is even better the next day.

• Freezing: I do not recommend freezing this salad, as the cabbage will lose its signature crunch.

• Countertop: Because of the chicken and dressing, this should not be left at room temperature for more than 2 hours.

What is the safe cooking temperature for the chicken?

If you are cooking your chicken breast fresh for this recipe, ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Can I reheat this?

Yes! While traditionally served cold, you can warm it slightly in the microwave, and you have a wonderfully warm evening meal.

Enjoy!

I’d love to hear how yours turned out! Did you add almonds or maybe some extra spice? Leave a comment below!

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As the creator of Appetite for Life, Jen Vondenbrink combines years of culinary passion and experience with a mission to help others find joy and confidence in the kitchen. Whether she is developing savory weeknight meals or indulgent baked treats, every recipe is meticulously crafted and kitchen-tested to ensure reliable, delicious results for her readers. Jen is dedicated to sharing these proven techniques and practical tips so that every home cook can achieve professional-quality results in both cooking and baking.