Chinese Chicken Salad Recipe – Crisp, Flavorful & Easy
Introduction:
Looking for a salad that’s light yet packed with bold flavor? This Chinese Chicken Salad blends tender chicken, crunchy greens, sweet mandarin oranges, and a tangy sesame ginger dressing for the perfect bite. Inspired by Asian-American flavors and updated for today’s kitchens, it’s quick to make, endlessly customizable, and ideal for weeknight meals or gatherings. In this article, you’ll discover the story behind the dish, step-by-step prep guidance, storage tips, and expert answers to your top questions. Let’s explore what makes this salad a fresh favorite for home cooks across the country.
Chinese Chicken Salad Recipe – Crisp, Flavorful & Easy
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 00 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Protein-Packed Salads
- Method: Tossed
- Cuisine: Asian-American
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
Instructions
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In a large bowl, combine the shredded romaine, napa cabbage, cooked chicken, mandarin oranges, cilantro, cashews, and green onions.
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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.
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Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss until evenly coated.
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Top the salad with crispy wonton strips and a sprinkle of sesame seeds just before serving.
Table of Contents
Chinese Chicken Salad – The Story & Origins
A dish that bridges cultures
The first time I tasted a Chinese Chicken Salad, it wasn’t at a Chinese restaurant—it was at a summer potluck in my neighbor’s backyard. Crunchy cabbage, juicy chicken, sweet mandarin slices, and a zingy sesame dressing made it unforgettable. It felt fresh, hearty, and so different from the creamy salads I grew up with. I later discovered it wasn’t truly Chinese in origin but rather a bold fusion born from the creativity of American chefs. And that’s what makes it special—it bridges cultures on a single plate, combining familiar ingredients with flavors that transport you.
Inspired by a legend, perfected at home
Though often seen on casual menus today, Chinese Chicken Salad has a storied past. Culinary legend points to Madame Wu, a trailblazing restaurateur in 1960s Los Angeles, who first crafted this salad for none other than Cary Grant. It quickly became a Hollywood favorite. Over time, chefs like Wolfgang Puck added their own flair, and home cooks followed suit. I love this salad because it adapts so easily—add more crunch, a touch of spice, or a protein twist, and it still works beautifully.
Why Chinese Chicken Salad still shines
So why does this dish keep popping up on trendy menus and in cozy kitchens alike? Because it hits every note: fresh, sweet, savory, and crunchy. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser that fits right into modern life—healthy, protein-rich, and easy to prep ahead. Whether you’re looking for a main dish salad or something to serve alongside your Tropical Tuna Bowl or Buffalo Chicken Bowls, this recipe delivers every time.
Building the Perfect Chinese Chicken Salad – Ingredients & Variations
The essential building blocks
To make a truly great Chinese Chicken Salad, you need a harmonious mix of textures and flavors. This recipe starts with crisp romaine lettuce and Napa cabbage—both offer a sturdy base that won’t wilt too quickly once dressed. Shredded chicken breast provides lean, satisfying protein. Then come the flavor accents: mandarin oranges for sweetness, cashews for crunch, cilantro and green onions for herbal brightness. Finally, crispy wonton strips and a sprinkle of sesame seeds take it over the top.
What makes this recipe stand out is balance. Every element—from the juicy chicken to the toasted seeds—serves a purpose and builds a layered, exciting bite.
A dressing that elevates everything
No Chinese Chicken Salad is complete without a bold, flavorful dressing—and this sesame ginger version is the secret weapon. It combines rice vinegar’s tang with the sweet complexity of orange marmalade. Two oils—canola for neutrality and toasted sesame oil for depth—create a velvety texture. Freshly grated ginger brings warmth, while soy sauce and sesame seeds round out the savory, umami profile.
What you get is a dressing that doesn’t overpower—it enhances. It clings to every leaf and piece of chicken, delivering brightness and just enough punch to keep each forkful interesting.
Easy swaps for endless variety
This salad is built for flexibility. Want to add more crunch? Toss in shredded carrots or snap peas. Out of cashews? Sliced almonds or peanuts work too. Prefer more protein? Try grilled shrimp or tofu instead of chicken. The mandarin oranges can be swapped for sliced fresh oranges or left out altogether for a lower sugar option.
And for those who enjoy variety in their weekly meal rotation, it pairs beautifully with dishes like the refreshing Tropical Tuna Bowl or the hearty Buffalo Chicken Bowls. With this level of adaptability, it’s no wonder Chinese Chicken Salad remains a household favorite.
Step-by-Step Chinese Chicken Salad Recipe
Prep the base and blend the flavors
The beauty of this Chinese Chicken Salad lies in how quickly it comes together without sacrificing freshness or flavor. Begin by prepping the vegetables: shred the romaine and Napa cabbage finely so they hold the dressing well. Shred cooked chicken breast—either poached, roasted, or leftover rotisserie chicken works great. Add mandarin oranges (drained), chopped cilantro, roasted cashews, and thinly sliced green onions.
Everything goes into a large mixing bowl, making it easy to toss later. Set aside the crispy wonton strips and sesame seeds until the final step to maintain their crunch.
Make the sesame ginger dressing from scratch
The homemade dressing takes just minutes to whisk together but makes all the difference. In a small bowl, combine rice vinegar, orange marmalade, canola oil, toasted sesame oil, soy sauce, freshly grated ginger, and toasted sesame seeds. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
This dressing is bright, bold, and aromatic—perfect for cutting through the richness of the chicken and nuts while enhancing the natural sweetness of the oranges.
Toss, top, and serve immediately
Once your ingredients are ready and your dressing is mixed, it’s time to bring the salad together. Pour the dressing over the mixture in the bowl and gently toss until everything is well coated. Now, just before serving, sprinkle on the crispy wonton strips and a final dusting of sesame seeds.
Serve it right away for the best texture. It’s ideal for lunch, dinner, or even as a vibrant side at your next gathering. With no cooking required and only 25 minutes from start to finish, this Chinese Chicken Salad is fast, flavorful, and fuss-free.
Storage Tips & Serving Ideas for Chinese Chicken Salad
How long does Chinese Chicken Salad stay fresh?
One of the best parts about this Chinese Chicken Salad is how meal-prep friendly it can be—if you store it right. To keep everything crisp, don’t toss the salad with dressing until you’re ready to serve. The undressed components (greens, chicken, oranges, and nuts) stay fresh in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
The sesame ginger dressing holds up even longer—store it in a sealed jar in the fridge and give it a quick shake before using. You can make it a week ahead with no loss of flavor. Once tossed, though, the salad is best eaten immediately, as the dressing will soften the greens and wonton strips quickly.
Smart prep and serving strategies
Want to streamline busy weeknights or prep ahead for guests? Chop your romaine and cabbage, shred the chicken, and portion everything into containers. Store crispy toppings like wonton strips and cashews separately to preserve their crunch.
When it’s time to serve, combine all elements in a large bowl, toss with dressing, and garnish. It’s a guaranteed hit that requires zero last-minute stress.
This salad also shines at gatherings—serve it in a large bowl family-style, or plate it individually for a more elegant touch. For variation, offer toppings on the side so guests can build their own bowls.
It even works as a filling for lettuce wraps or served atop cold sesame noodles for an upgraded twist. And if you’re already thinking about what to serve with it, you can’t go wrong pairing this with the vibrant flavors in Tropical Tuna Bowl or the protein-packed punch of Buffalo Chicken Bowls.
FAQS
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.
Conclusion
Fresh, crunchy, and packed with flavor, this Chinese Chicken Salad is more than just a meal—it’s a satisfying experience that brings together texture, color, and taste in every bite. Whether you’re serving it at a dinner party, packing it for lunch, or enjoying a quiet meal at home, this recipe adapts beautifully to your needs. With a quick prep time and loads of customization options, it’s the kind of dish that keeps finding its way back to your table.
From its California roots to your kitchen, this vibrant salad continues to stand the test of time. Try it once, and it just might become your new go-to favorite.
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