What is in a Chinese chicken salad?

A traditional Chinese Chicken Salad combines shredded lettuce or cabbage, cooked chicken breast, mandarin oranges, chopped nuts (like cashews or almonds), green onions, and a bold sesame or soy-based dressing. Crunchy toppings such as wonton strips or crispy noodles are also common. These ingredients create a satisfying blend of textures and flavors—savory, sweet, tangy, and fresh all in one.

How long is Chinese chicken salad good for?

When stored properly, the undressed salad ingredients will stay fresh in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days . Keep the dressing in a separate container to avoid sogginess. Once the salad is dressed, it's best enjoyed immediately to preserve its crispness and crunch.

What do you eat with Chinese chicken salad?

This salad is hearty enough to be a full meal but also pairs well with a variety of sides. Try it with egg drop soup, miso soup, spring rolls, or cold noodles. It also complements grilled proteins like teriyaki salmon or shrimp. For a light and balanced meal plan, serve it alongside refreshing dishes like a Tropical Tuna Bowl or savory Buffalo Chicken Bowls .

Why is it called Chinese chicken salad?

Despite the name, Chinese Chicken Salad isn’t a traditional Chinese dish. It originated in the United States and was popularized by Madame Wu in Los Angeles during the 1960s. The “Chinese” label reflects the use of Chinese-inspired ingredients like soy sauce, sesame oil, and cabbage, not its culinary origin. It’s a great example of cultural fusion in American cuisine.

Chinese Chicken Salad Guide: 6 Easy Steps + Secrets

Description

Chinese Chicken Salad: a crisp, flavor-packed recipe with sesame‑ginger dressing. Ready in 25 minutes.

Ingredients

Salad:1 head romaine lettuce, shredded4 cups napa cabbage, shredded3 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded1 (15-ounce) can mandarin oranges, drained½ cup chopped fresh cilantro½ cup roasted, salted cashews3 green onions, thinly sliced2 cups crispy wonton strips2 teaspoons toasted sesame seedsSesame Ginger Dressing:¼ cup rice vinegar3 tablespoons orange marmalade2½ tablespoons canola oil2½ tablespoons toasted sesame oil1 tablespoon reduced-sodium soy sauce2 teaspoons freshly grated ginger2 teaspoons toasted sesame seedsKosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

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Instructions

In a large bowl, combine the shredded romaine, napa cabbage, cooked chicken, mandarin oranges, cilantro, cashews, and green onions.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the rice vinegar, orange marmalade, canola oil, sesame oil, soy sauce, grated ginger, and sesame seeds. Season to taste with salt and pepper.
Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss until evenly coated.
Top the salad with crispy wonton strips and a sprinkle of sesame seeds just before serving.

Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 00 minutes
Category: Protein-Packed Salads
Method: Tossed
Cuisine: Asian-American