Sesame Chicken Cabbage Crunch Salad

If you’re looking for a dish that bursts with flavor and crunch, then you’ve come to the right place! This Sesame Chicken Cabbage Crunch Salad is one of my all-time favorites. It’s not only vibrant and delicious but also incredibly easy to whip up, making it perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Imagine sinking your teeth into juicy chicken nestled among fresh, colorful veggies, all tossed together with a zesty sesame ginger dressing. Trust me, once you try this salad, it will quickly become a staple in your kitchen!

What I love most about this salad is its versatility. You can serve it as a hearty main dish or as a light side. Plus, it’s super easy to customize with your favorite veggies or proteins, so everyone at the table will be happy!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: With just 60 minutes from start to finish, this salad fits perfectly into your hectic schedule.
• Family-friendly: The combination of flavors and textures makes it appealing for both kids and adults alike.
• Make-ahead convenience: Prep the salad in advance and store it in the fridge for an easy grab-and-go lunch during the week.
• Loaded with nutrition: Packed with fresh vegetables and lean protein, it’s a healthy choice that doesn’t skimp on taste.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients for this Sesame Chicken Cabbage Crunch Salad is simple! You’ll find everything you need is wholesome and easily accessible. 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 recipe is how flexible it is! Feel free to mix things up based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Swap the protein: Try using grilled chicken thighs or tofu instead of grilled sesame chicken for a different twist!
• Add more crunch: Toss in some sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for an added texture.
• Change up the greens: Spinach or kale can be excellent substitutes for cabbage if you’re looking for something different.
• Make it spicy: If you love heat, consider adding some sriracha to your 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 grilled sesame chicken recipe. This step is crucial because marinating helps infuse flavor into the meat, making every bite deliciously savory.

Step 2: Prepare the Dressing

While your chicken marinates, whip up your sesame ginger dressing. This homemade dressing adds a bright zing to the salad that ties all the flavors together beautifully. Set it aside when done.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

In a large bowl, combine all your chopped veggies: green cabbage, red cabbage, green onion, cilantro, carrots, bell pepper, and jalapeno. Once everything is in there, pour that beautiful dressing over the top and toss until all those vibrant colors are well-coated. Letting it sit while you cook your chicken allows all those flavors to meld together!

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

When your chicken is ready—whether baked or grilled—slice it up and nestle it atop your salad. Garnish generously with toasted sliced almonds, roasted cashews, extra cilantro, sesame seeds, jalapeno slices, and even crispy wonton strips if you’re feeling fancy! Dig in and enjoy this delightful bowl of goodness that’s sure to impress everyone at your table!

Pro Tips for Making Sesame Chicken Cabbage Crunch Salad

Creating the perfect Sesame Chicken Cabbage Crunch Salad is all about balance and flavor, so here are some helpful tips to take your dish to the next level!

• Choose fresh ingredients: Using fresh, crisp vegetables not only enhances the flavor but also adds vibrant colors to your salad, making it more appetizing.
• Customize your crunch: Feel free to swap or add any crunchy veggies you love, such as cucumbers or snap peas. This customization lets you tailor the salad to your taste preferences!
• Let it chill: Allowing the salad to sit in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes after tossing with dressing helps the flavors meld beautifully. The slight chill can also make it extra refreshing.
• Adjust the spice level: If you’re not a fan of heat, you can omit the jalapeno or reduce its amount. Conversely, if you want more kick, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes in the dressing.
• Make-ahead option: For meal prep, keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve. This keeps your veggies crunchy and prevents them from becoming soggy.

How to Serve Sesame Chicken Cabbage Crunch Salad

When it comes to serving this delightful salad, presentation is key! A well-plated dish can turn a simple meal into an impressive feast. Here’s how you can elevate your serving game:

Garnishes

• Toasted sesame seeds: These add a nutty flavor and a beautiful finishing touch that complements the overall taste of the salad.
• Fresh herbs: A sprinkle of additional cilantro or mint can brighten up each bite and enhance freshness.
• Lime wedges: Serving lime wedges on the side allows guests to squeeze on some juice for an extra zesty punch.

Side Dishes

• Steamed edamame: Lightly salted edamame makes for a nutritious and protein-packed side that pairs perfectly with this salad.
• Quinoa pilaf: A fluffy quinoa pilaf with herbs offers a hearty complement to the crunchy texture of the salad while keeping it gluten-free.
• Cucumber salad: A refreshing cucumber salad dressed in rice vinegar and sesame oil adds another layer of crunch and flavor variety.
• Roasted sweet potatoes: Sweet potatoes roasted until crispy provide a lovely contrast in flavors and textures, making every bite satisfying.

Enjoy putting together this delicious Sesame Chicken Cabbage Crunch Salad with these serving ideas! Whether it’s for a family dinner or meal prep for your week ahead, this dish is sure to impress everyone at your table.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Sesame Chicken Cabbage Crunch Salad is perfect for meal prep, making it a fantastic option for busy weeks. You can easily whip up a large batch in advance and enjoy it throughout the week without losing its freshness!

Storing Leftovers

• Place any leftover salad in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat to maintain the crunchiness of the veggies.

Freezing

• It’s best to avoid freezing this salad due to the fresh ingredients which may become soggy.
• If you want to freeze grilled chicken, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer bag for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• While the salad is best enjoyed cold, if you prefer your chicken warm:
• Reheat grilled chicken in a microwave or skillet until warmed through, about 2-3 minutes.
• Let the chicken cool slightly before adding it back to your chilled salad.

FAQs

Got questions? Here are some common ones about the Sesame Chicken Cabbage Crunch Salad!

Can I customize my Sesame Chicken Cabbage Crunch Salad?

Absolutely! This salad is incredibly versatile. Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables or proteins like shrimp or tofu—make it your own!

How long does Sesame Chicken Cabbage Crunch Salad stay fresh?

When stored properly in the fridge, this salad will stay fresh for about 3 days, but it’s best enjoyed within the first couple of days for maximum crunch.

What should I serve with my Sesame Chicken Cabbage Crunch Salad?

This salad makes a hearty main dish on its own but can also be paired with rice or quinoa for additional carbohydrates.

Final Thoughts

I hope you feel inspired to make this delightful Sesame Chicken Cabbage Crunch Salad! It’s not just a meal; it’s a vibrant celebration of flavors and textures that brings joy to any table. Enjoy every bite and feel free to customize it as you like—after all, cooking is all about personal expression! Happy cooking!