The first time I made Asian Chicken Cabbage Salad, I was looking for something light yet satisfying for a summer barbecue. It was one of those warm evenings where the sun lingers just a bit longer, and the air is filled with laughter and enticing aromas. This salad quickly became a hit, with friends and family raving about its delightful crunch and vibrant flavors. The combination of tender chicken, crisp cabbage, and toasted almonds creates a melody of textures that I couldn’t resist sharing. It’s become a staple in my kitchen not just for its deliciousness but also for its versatility. I love how it can be served as a side dish or stand alone as a light meal. With its colorful presentation, this salad brightens up any table, making it a perfect choice for gatherings or casual dinners.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
60 mins

Prep Time:
0 mins

Cook Time:
0 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
350 kcal

Protein:
27 g

Diet:
Keto, Paleo, Whole30

Fat:
20 g

Tools Used:
Chef’s Knife, Whisk, Cutting Board, Mixing Bowl, Frying Pan, Skillet

Why This Asian Chicken Cabbage Salad Is So Good

Refreshing and Light

There’s something truly refreshing about a salad that’s packed with crisp vegetables and lean protein. The cabbage serves as a great base, offering a satisfying crunch while absorbing the flavors of the dressing beautifully. It’s the kind of dish you can enjoy guilt-free!

Flavorful Dressing

The dressing for this Asian Chicken Cabbage Salad is a star on its own. Whisking together soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil creates a tangy and nutty flavor that complements the other ingredients perfectly. The subtle sweetness from the Monkfruit sweetener adds an unexpected twist that keeps you coming back for more.

Easy to Customize

One of the best things about this recipe is its adaptability. You can easily swap in your favorite vegetables or even add some fruit for a twist. Want to make it more filling? Throw in some quinoa or noodles! This salad is a canvas for your culinary creativity.

Quick to Prepare

On busy evenings, having a quick recipe like Asian Chicken Cabbage Salad is invaluable. The prep is simple and can usually be done in under 30 minutes, making it a go-to for a weeknight dinner or a last-minute contribution to a potluck.

Nutrition Packed

This salad is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. The combination of lean chicken, fresh vegetables, and healthy fats from the almonds and sesame seeds provides a balanced meal that keeps you energized.

Perfect for Meal Prep

Another reason I love this salad is that it holds up well in the fridge. It’s perfect for meal prepping, allowing you to have a nutritious meal ready for lunch or dinner throughout the week. Just keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat!

What You Need for Asian Chicken Cabbage Salad

To create a vibrant Asian Chicken Cabbage Salad, you’ll need fresh, quality ingredients that work in harmony to provide flavor and texture. The star, of course, is the cabbage, which stays crisp even after the dressing is added. Each ingredient contributes not just to taste but also to the overall healthiness of the dish. Let’s go through what you’ll need:

3 cups diced, cooked chicken: The protein base, offering heartiness and flavor.
6 cups thinly sliced and chopped cabbage: Provides the main crunch and volume in the salad.
1/2 cup sliced green onion: Adds a mild onion flavor and a pop of color.
3/4 cup slivered almonds, toasted in dry pan: Brings a nutty flavor and delightful crunch.
2 T sesame seeds: Enhances the nutty flavor, complementing the dressing.
Fresh ground black pepper to taste: A simple seasoning that elevates the dish.

The Process for Making Asian Chicken Cabbage Salad

Making Asian Chicken Cabbage Salad is simple, and each step brings you closer to a delicious, colorful meal. Let’s dive into the steps and I’ll walk you through the process of creating this refreshing salad.

Start by chopping chicken into bite-sized pieces. The chicken should be cooked thoroughly and cooled for easier handling. Ensure the pieces are uniform to allow for even flavor absorption.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, unseasoned rice vinegar, peanut oil, Monkfruit sweetener, and sesame oil. This will be your dressing. It’s a good idea to taste it and adjust ingredients to your liking, as this dressing can be used on various other dishes.
Once the dressing is ready, put the chopped chicken into a large mixing bowl. Add about half of the dressing and mix well, ensuring the chicken is evenly coated. Allow it to marinate as you prepare the other ingredients.
Next, thinly slice and chop enough cabbage to make about 6 cups. The cabbage adds bulk and a satisfying crunch. Make sure you use fresh cabbage for the best texture.
Slice the green onion into thin pieces. This will add a mild flavor punch and a nice color contrast to the salad.
In a large dry frying pan, toast the almonds over low heat. This should take about 90 seconds; watch carefully until they become fragrant. This step enhances their flavor significantly.
Once toasted, combine the cabbage, sliced green onions, toasted almonds, and sesame seeds into the bowl with the marinating chicken. Reserve a few almonds and sesame seeds for garnishing.
Pour in more dressing as needed. Toss everything together gently, ensuring every component is well mixed. You may not need all the dressing, so add it according to your preference for moisture.
Season the salad with fresh-ground black pepper to taste. This simple seasoning makes a big difference, so don’t skip it!
Finally, sprinkle the reserved almonds and sesame seeds on top as a garnish. Serve immediately for the best texture, though it can be stored in the fridge for about one day.

Things Worth Knowing

Always use fresh cabbage for the best crunch. The freshness makes a noticeable difference in flavor and texture.
When toasting almonds, keep a close eye on them. They can burn quickly, so stirring often will help.
Feel free to customize the vegetables. Adding bell peppers or carrots can enhance both color and nutrition.
Allow the salad to sit for a few minutes after tossing. This lets the flavors meld beautifully, enhancing the overall taste.

Recipe Notes about Asian Chicken Cabbage Salad

This Asian Chicken Cabbage Salad is not just quick to prepare, but it also offers a range of serving options that can suit various tastes and occasions. Here are some notes to keep in mind:

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one day. Ensure to keep the dressing separate if you plan to store it.
Freezing: This salad is not ideal for freezing due to the texture of the cabbage, which may become mushy upon thawing.
Pairing: This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled vegetables or rice dishes, making it a versatile complement to any meal.
Meal Prep: Perfect for meal prep, just keep the dressing separate until ready to eat. It holds its freshness well for a day.
Variations: Feel free to add ingredients like shredded carrots, sliced bell peppers, or even some fruit for a sweet twist.

Perfect Matches for Asian Chicken Cabbage Salad

This Asian Chicken Cabbage Salad is not just a dish but a fantastic companion for various meals and occasions. Here are some suggestions on how to serve it:

As a light lunch: Serve it on its own for a refreshing, nutritious meal that leaves you satisfied but not heavy.
With grilled meats: This salad is a perfect side to grilled chicken or fish, offering a crisp contrast to the smoky flavors.
At gatherings: Bring it to potlucks or BBQs; its vibrant colors and flavors make it a showstopper.
Perfect for meal prep: Prepare a large batch at the beginning of the week for easy lunches that keep you energized.
Seasonal Pairing: This salad shines in the warmer months, making it ideal for summer picnics, but can be enjoyed year-round.

FAQ

Using raw chicken is not recommended for Asian Chicken Cabbage Salad as the dish requires cooked chicken for safety and flavor. Always use diced, cooked chicken for the best results. If you prefer to cook the chicken yourself, grilling or baking it beforehand will add delicious flavor and keep the meat juicy. Just make sure it’s cooled before adding to the salad to prevent wilting the vegetables.

If you don’t have Monkfruit sweetener on hand, you can substitute it with honey or maple syrup, adjusting the quantity to taste. If you prefer a sugar-free option, consider using stevia or erythritol, both of which can provide sweetness without the calories. Just remember to experiment a bit, as these alternatives may vary in sweetness compared to Monkfruit.

This Asian Chicken Cabbage Salad is best enjoyed fresh but can last for about one day in the fridge. To maintain the crisp texture of the cabbage and the freshness of the ingredients, store the salad in an airtight container. If you’re planning to make it in advance, consider keeping the dressing separate until ready to serve to prevent the salad from becoming soggy.

Absolutely! To make a vegan version of Asian Chicken Cabbage Salad, simply replace the chicken with a plant-based protein like tofu or chickpeas. Additionally, ensure that the dressing you use is free from animal products. This can be a delicious and nutritious option that still delivers on flavor and texture!

Conclusion

The Asian Chicken Cabbage Salad is a delightful blend of flavors and textures that makes it a must-try! With its fresh ingredients and easy preparation, it’s the perfect dish for any occasion. I encourage you to give it a try and experience the deliciousness for yourself. You might just find it becoming a favorite in your home!