Sesame Chicken Cabbage Crunch Salad

If you’re looking for a vibrant and satisfying meal, this Sesame Chicken Cabbage Crunch Salad is just what you need! It’s a delightful combination of juicy grilled chicken, crunchy vegetables, and a zesty sesame ginger dressing that dances on your taste buds. I love this recipe because it’s not only packed with nutrients but also incredibly versatile. Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a family gathering, this salad shines on any table!

The best part? You can easily customize it with your favorite veggies or proteins. It’s the kind of dish that makes everyone happy, and it’s perfect for meal prep too! Let’s dive into how to make this scrumptious salad.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: This recipe comes together in about an hour, making it perfect for those busy evenings.
• Family-friendly: With its colorful veggies and savory chicken, even the pickiest eaters will enjoy this salad.
• Versatile: You can switch up the ingredients based on what’s in season or what you have in your fridge!
• Make-ahead option: Prep the salad in advance and store it in the fridge for a quick lunch or dinner later in the week.
• Bursting with flavor: The sesame ginger dressing ties everything together, creating a delicious medley of tastes.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Sesame Chicken Cabbage Crunch Salad is made with simple, wholesome ingredients that are easy to find. 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 (either 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 things I adore about this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily modify it to suit your preferences or dietary needs. Here are some fun ideas to change things up:

• Swap the protein: Try using grilled tofu or tempeh for a plant-based option that still packs a punch.
• Add more crunch: Toss in some sliced snap peas or radishes for an extra layer of texture.
• Change up the greens: Use kale or spinach instead of cabbage if you’re craving something different.
• Spice it up: If you like heat, add some crushed red pepper flakes to the dressing for an extra kick!

How to Make Sesame Chicken Cabbage Crunch Salad

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by marinating your chicken using a delicious grilled sesame chicken recipe. This step is essential as it infuses flavor right into the meat! Allowing it to marinate gives the chicken that lovely sesame flavor we’ll all enjoy.

Step 2: Prepare the Dressing

Next up is making the sesame ginger dressing. This flavorful sauce is what brings everything together. Once you’ve whisked together all the ingredients, set it aside so those flavors can meld beautifully while we prepare our salad.

Step 3: Assemble Your Salad

In a large bowl, combine all your beautiful vegetables—green and red cabbage, green onion, cilantro, carrots, bell pepper, and jalapeno. Pour that tasty dressing over everything and toss gently until all those vibrant veggies are well-coated. Cover this mixture while you focus on cooking your marinated chicken.

Step 4: Serve It Up

Once your chicken is cooked (whether baked or grilled), add your salad to a large platter. Top it off with toasted sliced almonds, cashews, extra cilantro, sesame seeds, jalapeno slices, and green onion as desired. If you’re feeling adventurous, throw on some crispy wonton strips too! Now dig in and enjoy this delightful Sesame Chicken Cabbage Crunch Salad—it serves 4 as a hearty main dish or 6 as a lovely side!

Pro Tips for Making Sesame Chicken Cabbage Crunch Salad

Creating the perfect Sesame Chicken Cabbage Crunch Salad is all about the little details, and I’ve got some great tips to help you shine in the kitchen!

• Choose Fresh Ingredients: Using the freshest vegetables enhances the flavor and crunch of your salad. Look for vibrant green cabbage, firm bell peppers, and fresh herbs to make your dish pop.
• Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to swap in your favorite veggies! This salad is versatile, so try adding snap peas, radishes, or even diced cucumbers for an extra crunch.
• Make Ahead for Convenience: You can prep the salad components ahead of time. Chop your veggies and store them in airtight containers in the fridge for up to two days. Just add the dressing right before serving!
• Adjust Dressing to Taste: The sesame ginger dressing can be tweaked based on your preference. If you like it a bit sweeter, add more honey or maple syrup. For a spicier kick, incorporate some red pepper flakes.
• Serve Chilled: Enjoying this salad cold adds to its refreshing nature. After tossing with dressing, let it chill in the fridge for 15-20 minutes to meld those flavors beautifully!

How to Serve Sesame Chicken Cabbage Crunch Salad

Presenting your Sesame Chicken Cabbage Crunch Salad can make all the difference at mealtime. Here are some creative ideas to elevate your dish!

Garnishes

• Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle extra cilantro or basil on top just before serving for a fragrant touch that brightens the overall flavor.
• Crispy Shallots: Add crispy fried shallots for an added layer of texture and a savory crunch that’s irresistible.

Side Dishes

• Quinoa Pilaf: A nutty quinoa pilaf with herbs makes a wonderful side that complements the crunch of your salad while adding protein.
• Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup serves as a comforting contrast to the fresh salad. Its umami flavor pairs well without overpowering.
• Steamed Edamame: Lightly salted edamame is not only healthy but also provides a satisfying bite that goes hand-in-hand with your sesame chicken salad.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, you’re well on your way to creating a delightful dining experience! Enjoy every crunchy bite of this fabulous meal!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Sesame Chicken Cabbage Crunch Salad is perfect for meal prep! Preparing it in advance not only saves you time during the week, but it also allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Consume within 3 days for optimal freshness.
• Keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat to maintain the salad’s crunch.

Freezing

• This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, it’s advisable not to freeze as the texture of the vegetables may change.
• If you’ve made extra grilled chicken, you can freeze that separately. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil before placing it in a freezer-safe bag.

Reheating

• If you’ve stored your grilled chicken in the freezer, thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Warm the chicken gently on the stove or microwave, then toss it with your fresh salad ingredients just before serving.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making this delightful salad!

Can I use other proteins in Sesame Chicken Cabbage Crunch Salad?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute grilled tofu or shrimp for an equally delicious twist.

How can I customize my Sesame Chicken Cabbage Crunch Salad?

You can easily swap out vegetables based on your preference. Try adding bell peppers, cucumbers, or even some fresh snap peas for added crunch!

Is Sesame Chicken Cabbage Crunch Salad good for meal prep?

Yes! This salad is an excellent choice for meal prep as it keeps well in the fridge for a few days and makes a quick lunch or dinner option.

What dressing goes well with Sesame Chicken Cabbage Crunch Salad?

The sesame ginger dressing is perfect for this salad, but you can also try a light vinaigrette or peanut dressing if you’d like to mix things up!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making and sharing this colorful and nutritious Sesame Chicken Cabbage Crunch Salad! It’s a fantastic way to incorporate more veggies into your meals while still enjoying a hearty dish. Whether you’re prepping for lunch or dinner, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Happy cooking!