Is Chinese chicken salad healthy?

Yes, Chinese chicken salad can be very healthy—especially when it’s made at home with fresh, whole ingredients. This version features lean protein from chicken breast, fiber-rich cabbage, healthy fats from almonds and sesame oil, and a light homemade dressing. Unlike restaurant versions that may use fried noodles or heavy sauces, this recipe stays true to its name with a clean nutritional profile.

What goes with Chinese chicken salad healthy?

To keep your meal balanced, pair Chinese chicken salad with light, complementary sides like vegetable soup, steamed edamame, or whole grain rice. You can also enjoy it with spring rolls, a miso broth, or even a small serving of chilled soba noodles. For added hydration, pair it with cucumber-infused water or unsweetened iced green tea.

What's in a Chinese chicken salad?

A traditional Chinese chicken salad typically includes shredded cabbage, cooked chicken breast, mandarin oranges, green onions, almonds, sesame seeds, and a sesame-ginger vinaigrette. This recipe simplifies and optimizes those ingredients by removing processed elements and emphasizing whole foods. It’s flavorful, texturally diverse, and incredibly satisfying.

What is a healthy way to eat chicken salad?

The healthiest way to eat chicken salad is to avoid creamy, high-fat dressings and instead use light vinaigrettes like this sesame-ginger blend. Portion control also matters—serve a reasonable amount alongside fiber-rich veggies or whole grains. Use lean protein, limit sugar, and skip deep-fried toppings. This version of Healthy Chinese Chicken Salad ticks all those boxes, making it a smart, flavorful choice for any meal.

Healthy Chinese Chicken Salad: Fresh, Flavorful & Guilt-Free

Description

Healthy Chinese Chicken Salad with fresh veggies, lean chicken, and sesame dressing. High protein, low sugar, and easy to make!

Ingredients

1/3 cup rice vinegar
2 tablespoons granulated sugar (or sugar substitute)
2 tablespoons sesame oil
2 teaspoons freshly grated ginger
1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/3 cup light olive oil or avocado oil
4 cups cooked skinless chicken breast, shredded or chopped
1 bunch green onions, thinly sliced on the diagonal
2 cans (11 ounces each) mandarin oranges, drained (or use fresh orange segments)
1/4 cup toasted sesame seeds
1 cup sliced or slivered almonds, toasted
1 head of cabbage, shredded (about 8–10 cups, or use two 10-ounce pre-shredded packages)

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Instructions

In a small saucepan, combine the rice vinegar, sugar, sesame oil, ginger, salt, pepper, and olive oil. Warm gently over low heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Allow it to cool completely, then refrigerate until ready to use.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, green onions, mandarin oranges, sesame seeds, almonds, and cabbage.
Pour the cooled dressing over the salad and toss everything together until evenly coated. Serve immediately or chill briefly before serving.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Protein-Packed Salads
Method: Tossed
Cuisine: American