Sesame Chicken Cabbage Crunch Salad

If you’re looking for a vibrant and satisfying meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, then you’re in for a treat with this Sesame Chicken Cabbage Crunch Salad! This recipe is close to my heart because it combines juicy grilled chicken with a colorful medley of fresh veggies, all tossed in a delightful sesame ginger dressing. It’s not just a salad; it’s an explosion of flavors and textures that will make everyone at the table smile.

Whether you’re packing lunch for work or hosting friends, this salad is sure to impress. It’s quick to prepare, incredibly versatile, and packed with nutrients. Let’s dive into why this recipe is a must-try!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With a few simple steps, you can have this delicious salad ready in no time.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: The crunchy vegetables and savory chicken make it a hit with both kids and adults alike.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: This salad keeps well in the fridge, making it perfect for meal prep or leftovers.
• Customizable Ingredients: Use your favorite veggies and proteins to make it your own!
• Delicious Flavor Profile: The combination of sesame and ginger adds a delightful touch that elevates the entire dish.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering fresh and simple ingredients is key to making this Sesame Chicken Cabbage Crunch Salad truly shine. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Chicken:

• Grilled Sesame Chicken

For the Salad:

• 4 cups shredded green cabbage
• 2 cups shredded red cabbage
• 1/2 cup diced green onion
• 3/4 cup freshly diced cilantro
• 1 cup shredded carrots (bagged or cut into matchsticks for excellent crunch!)
• 1 red bell pepper, thinly julienned
• 1 jalapeno, seeded and diced

For the Dressing:

• 1 batch Sesame Ginger Dressing

For Serving:

• 1/3 cup toasted sliced almonds
• 1/3 cup roasted cashew halves
• Sesame seeds
• Extra cilantro
• Extra green onion
• A few jalapeno slices
• Optional: Crispy wonton strips

Variations

One of the best things about this Sesame Chicken Cabbage Crunch Salad is its flexibility! Feel free to mix things up according to your preferences.

• Swap the protein: Try using grilled tofu or chickpeas instead of chicken for a plant-based twist.
• Add more crunch: Toss in some sliced radishes or snap peas for an extra layer of texture.
• Change up the greens: Use kale or spinach as a base instead of cabbage for a different flavor profile.
• Spice it up: If you love heat, add more diced jalapenos or even some sriracha to the dressing.

How to Make Sesame Chicken Cabbage Crunch Salad

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by marinating your chicken using your favorite grilled sesame chicken recipe. This step infuses each bite with incredible flavor. Allowing it to soak up those savory notes while you prepare the rest of the salad ensures that every component shines.

Step 2: Make the Dressing

Next, whip up your sesame ginger dressing. Set it aside so that all the flavors can mingle together. A good dressing is essential; it brings everything together and adds that zing we all love!

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

In a large bowl, combine all your crunchy veggies: green cabbage, red cabbage, green onion, cilantro, carrots, bell pepper, and jalapeno. Pour your homemade dressing over this colorful mix and toss gently but thoroughly to coat every piece. Cover it while you cook your chicken so those flavors can meld together beautifully.

Step 4: Serve with Style

Once your chicken is cooked perfectly—grilled or baked—slice it up and arrange your salad on a large platter. Top with toasted almonds, cashews, extra cilantro, sesame seeds, jalapeno slices, and some additional chopped green onion if desired. For an extra crunch factor that’s optional but oh-so-delicious, add crispy wonton strips right before serving. Dig in! This salad serves 4 as a hearty main dish or 6 as a side dish.

Enjoy creating this delightful Sesame Chicken Cabbage Crunch Salad! It’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen just like it has in mine!

Pro Tips for Making Sesame Chicken Cabbage Crunch Salad

Creating the perfect Sesame Chicken Cabbage Crunch Salad is all about the details, so here are some pro tips to ensure your dish shines!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh, crisp ingredients not only enhance the flavor but also add to the overall texture of your salad. Opt for seasonal vegetables whenever possible for the best taste.
• Customize the Veggies: Feel free to mix and match your favorite vegetables! Adding ingredients like snap peas or radishes can introduce new flavors and crunch that make the salad more exciting.
• Marinate Your Chicken Well: Allowing the chicken to marinate longer amplifies its flavor, making it even more delicious. If you have time, marinate it overnight in the fridge for superb results.
• Chill Before Serving: Letting your salad sit in the fridge for about 30 minutes before serving helps meld the flavors together, making each bite even tastier.
• Add Texture with Crunchy Toppings: Toppings like toasted almonds or crispy wonton strips elevate both the texture and visual appeal of your salad, making it more satisfying and enjoyable.

How to Serve Sesame Chicken Cabbage Crunch Salad

Serving this vibrant salad can transform a simple meal into a delightful feast. Here are some ideas on how to present your dish beautifully!

Garnishes

• Sesame Seeds: A sprinkle of sesame seeds not only adds visual appeal but also enhances the nutty flavor profile of your salad.
• Extra Herbs: Fresh cilantro or green onions on top add brightness and a pop of color that will make your dish look even more inviting.

Side Dishes

• Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad made with rice vinegar and sesame oil pairs perfectly with this dish, balancing out its savory flavors.
• Quinoa Pilaf: Lightly seasoned quinoa pilaf provides a hearty side that complements the salad without overpowering it.
• Edamame: Steamed edamame tossed with sea salt offers a protein-packed side that’s simple yet delicious, enhancing your meal’s nutritional value.
• Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad with seasonal fruits can act as a sweet contrast to the savory elements of your main dish, rounding out the meal beautifully.

With these serving suggestions and tips, you’re sure to impress at your next lunch or dinner gathering. Enjoy every crunchy bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Sesame Chicken Cabbage Crunch Salad is perfect for meal prep! You can prepare components ahead of time, making it easy to enjoy a healthy meal throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Keep the dressing separate to maintain the crunchiness of the vegetables.
• Consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing

• It’s not recommended to freeze this salad due to the texture of the fresh vegetables.
• However, you can freeze cooked chicken if you have leftovers. Just ensure it’s well-sealed.

Reheating

• If you’ve frozen chicken, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• You can reheat the chicken in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, but avoid reheating the salad itself.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making this delicious Sesame Chicken Cabbage Crunch Salad.

Can I customize my Sesame Chicken Cabbage Crunch Salad with different vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to add or substitute any of your favorite crunchy veggies like bell peppers, cucumbers, or snap peas for a personalized touch.

How do I store my Sesame Chicken Cabbage Crunch Salad leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to enjoy it again to keep everything fresh and crunchy!

What makes this Sesame Chicken Cabbage Crunch Salad healthy?

This salad combines lean protein from grilled chicken with lots of colorful veggies, providing essential nutrients and fiber while keeping calories balanced.

Can I make this Sesame Chicken Cabbage Crunch Salad vegan?

Yes! You can replace grilled chicken with tofu or chickpeas and use a plant-based dressing to make it entirely vegan-friendly.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making this Sesame Chicken Cabbage Crunch Salad as much as I do! It’s not just a dish; it’s a vibrant celebration of flavors and textures that will brighten your day. Whether for lunch or dinner, this salad is sure to be a hit at your table. Dive in and savor every bite—happy cooking!