If you have been searching for the perfect blend of crunchy, fresh, and creamy flavors in one vibrant dish, look no further than this Chinese Chicken Salad with Asian Peanut Dressing Recipe. This salad bursts with colorful, crisp vegetables and tender chicken, all tossed in a luscious, slightly spicy peanut dressing that brings everything together beautifully. It’s incredibly satisfying yet light enough to enjoy anytime you crave something refreshing and flavorful. Whether you’re serving it for a quick lunch or impressing guests with a colorful appetizer, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your meal rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Chinese Chicken Salad with Asian Peanut Dressing Recipe is simple but essential. Together, they create a melody of textures and flavors — from creamy and nutty to crisp and tangy — that make every bite exciting.
- Peanut butter: The creamy base for the dressing that adds richness and nuttiness.
- Toasted sesame oil: Introduces a warm, toasty aroma that elevates all other flavors.
- Canola oil: Provides a neutral oil to balance the dressing without overpowering.
- Soy sauce: Adds savory depth and enhances the umami character.
- Sriracha: Brings adjustable heat and a kick of vibrant spice.
- Honey: Balances the heat and acidity with a touch of natural sweetness.
- Rice wine vinegar: Offers a bright acidity that lifts the salad.
- Water or lime juice: Adjusts dressing consistency and adds a hint of freshness.
- Garlic (minced): Infuses a fragrant bite to the dressing.
- Freshly grated ginger: Provides a zingy warmth that harmonizes with the peanut flavor.
- Chinese cabbage / Napa cabbage (shredded): Adds a mild crunch and a light vegetal note.
- Red cabbage (shredded): Brings vibrant color and a crisp texture.
- Carrots (julienned): Deliver natural sweetness and crunch.
- Shredded cooked chicken: The protein star, tender and juicy.
- Bean sprouts: Offer a fresh, crisp contrast with subtle earthiness.
- Shallot / green onion (finely sliced): Adds subtle sharpness and freshness.
- Peanuts (roughly chopped): Provide extra crunch and nutty bursts.
- Crunchy fried noodles: Elevate textural complexity with satisfying crispness.
How to Make Chinese Chicken Salad with Asian Peanut Dressing Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Dressing
Begin by whisking together the peanut butter, toasted sesame oil, canola oil, soy sauce, Sriracha, honey, rice wine vinegar, water or lime juice, minced garlic, and freshly grated ginger in a small bowl or jug. Adjust the thickness by adding water bit by bit until it feels thick yet pourable — think gloopy but smooth. Taste and add more Sriracha if you want more spice or a pinch of salt if you feel it needs a boost. The dressing is what makes this Chinese Chicken Salad with Asian Peanut Dressing Recipe sing, so take the time to get it just right.
Step 2: Assemble the Salad
In a large bowl, combine the shredded Chinese cabbage, red cabbage, julienned carrots, shredded cooked chicken, and fresh bean sprouts. Reserve some shallots, peanuts, and crunchy fried noodles for garnish later. Pour the freshly made peanut dressing over the salad and toss everything together gently but thoroughly to ensure each bite is coated with that irresistible dressing.
Step 3: Garnish and Serve
Now, sprinkle the reserved shallots, roughly chopped peanuts, and crunchy fried noodles on top for a beautiful presentation and extra textural delight. Serve immediately while the noodles stay crunchy and the vegetables remain fresh. Trust me, this finishing touch transforms the salad from delicious to unforgettable.
How to Serve Chinese Chicken Salad with Asian Peanut Dressing Recipe
Garnishes
The key to elevating this Chinese Chicken Salad with Asian Peanut Dressing Recipe lies in the garnishes. Crispy fried noodles, chopped peanuts, and thinly sliced scallions add color, crunch, and bursts of flavor that keep every mouthful exciting and fresh. You can also scatter a little extra fresh cilantro or sprinkle toasted sesame seeds for a slight twist.
Side Dishes
Because this salad feels both hearty and light, it pairs wonderfully with simple steamed jasmine rice or alongside crispy spring rolls for a complete Asian-inspired feast. For a low-carb option, serve it with cauliflower rice to keep it fresh and vibrant.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress guests or add a fun twist? Assemble the salad in individual clear jars or on crisp lettuce cups for easy handheld bites. Adding edible flowers or thin slices of fresh red chili on top will add flair and pop while keeping the flavors true to the Chinese Chicken Salad with Asian Peanut Dressing Recipe’s spirit.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, store the salad and dressing separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. This prevents the crunchy ingredients from becoming soggy. The salad keeps well for up to 2 days but tastes best fresh.
Freezing
This salad is best enjoyed fresh, so freezing is generally not recommended. The crunchy vegetables and noodles will lose their texture and become mushy upon thawing, which takes away from the fresh, crisp experience that makes the Chinese Chicken Salad with Asian Peanut Dressing Recipe so special.
Reheating
Since this is a cold salad, reheating is not necessary or advised. Instead, if you want to warm the chicken before adding it to the salad, do so separately and allow it to cool first. Then toss with the cold vegetables and dressing for the best balance of temperatures and textures.
FAQs
Can I use other types of nuts instead of peanuts?
Absolutely! While peanuts provide the classic flavor and crunch, chopped cashews or almonds can be great alternatives. Just toast them lightly for extra aroma and texture that still complements the dressing beautifully.
What kind of chicken works best for this salad?
Shredded cooked chicken breast or thigh works wonderfully. You can use leftover roasted chicken or quickly poach chicken breasts for a lean, tender protein component.
How spicy is this salad?
The heat depends on the amount of Sriracha you add. The recipe calls for at least 2 teaspoons, which gives a mild to medium kick. Feel free to adjust according to your spice tolerance; you can always add more Sriracha or leave it out for a milder version.
Can I make the dressing vegan?
Yes! Simply swap out the honey for maple syrup or agave nectar, and make sure your peanut butter doesn’t contain any added dairy. This way, you keep the robust peanut flavor while making it plant-based.
Is it possible to prepare this salad ahead of time for a party?
You can prep all the components and the dressing in advance but toss them together just before serving. This keeps the crunchy noodles and vegetables from getting soft, ensuring the salad stays vibrant and delicious for your guests.
Final Thoughts
Give this Chinese Chicken Salad with Asian Peanut Dressing Recipe a try, and you may just have found your new go-to meal that’s as fun to make as it is to eat. The blend of fresh vegetables, tender chicken, and that irresistible peanut dressing creates an explosion of flavors and textures that will brighten any day. Plus, it’s quick to prepare and versatile enough for any occasion. So, gather your ingredients, get tossing, and enjoy a little taste of freshness and nutty goodness in every bite!
Print
Chinese Chicken Salad with Asian Peanut Dressing Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Chinese
- Diet: Halal
Description
A vibrant and crunchy Chinese Chicken Salad tossed with a rich Asian Peanut Salad Dressing. This healthy and flavorful dish combines shredded chicken, fresh cabbages, carrots, bean sprouts, and a spicy peanut dressing for a quick, delicious meal perfect for lunch or light dinner.
Ingredients
Dressing
- 2 1/2 tbsp peanut butter
- 2 tsp toasted sesame oil
- 1 tbsp canola oil (or vegetable, grapeseed or peanut oil)
- 2 tsp soy sauce
- 2 tsp+ Sriracha (to taste)
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp + 2 tsp rice wine vinegar
- 1 – 1 1/2 tbsp water (or lime juice)
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1/2 tsp fresh ginger, grated
Salad
- 1 1/2 cups Chinese cabbage / Napa cabbage, shredded
- 1 cup red cabbage, shredded
- 1 1/2 cups carrots, julienned (or pre-shredded)
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cooked chicken
- 1 1/2 cups bean sprouts
- 1 shallot / green onion / scallion, thinly sliced on the diagonal
- 1/4 cup peanuts, roughly chopped
- 1/4+ cups crunchy fried noodles (such as Changs)
Instructions
- Prepare the Dressing: In a jug or small bowl, combine peanut butter, toasted sesame oil, canola oil, soy sauce, Sriracha, honey, rice wine vinegar, minced garlic, and freshly grated ginger. Add water (or lime juice) gradually to adjust the consistency until it is thick and gloopy. Adjust spiciness with more Sriracha, and season with salt if necessary (do not add more soy sauce).
- Assemble the Salad: Place shredded Chinese cabbage, red cabbage, carrots, shredded cooked chicken, bean sprouts, and most of the sliced shallots in a large bowl. Drizzle the prepared peanut dressing over the salad ingredients.
- Toss and Serve: Toss the salad well to coat everything evenly with the dressing. Reserve some crunchy fried noodles, peanuts, and scallions for garnish. Top the tossed salad with the reserved noodles, peanuts, and scallions. Serve immediately to enjoy the crisp textures and fresh flavors.
Notes
- Use water or lime juice to adjust the dressing consistency to your preference.
- Sriracha amount can be increased or decreased depending on desired spice level.
- Pre-shredded carrots can be used for convenience.
- Crunchy fried noodles add an essential texture contrast; use quality brand like Changs.
- Serve immediately after assembly to maintain crispness of ingredients.
