Healthy Chinese Chicken Salad with Crunchy Ramen Noodles – Fresh, Crisp & Flavor-Packed

If you’re craving something light, flavorful, and full of texture, this Healthy Chinese Chicken Salad with Crunchy Ramen Noodles is the perfect answer.

It combines crisp veggies, juicy chicken, and a tangy sesame dressing with the irresistible crunch of toasted ramen noodles, bringing just the right amount of nostalgia and flavor to every bite.

This version is a healthier twist on the classic potluck favorite. By skipping the heavy sugar and using real, fresh ingredients, you’ll still get that delicious crunch and bold flavor while keeping things lighter and more nourishing.

It’s quick to make, great for meal prep, and always a crowd-pleaser.

Why You’ll Love This Salad

🥗 Packed with fresh veggies and lean protein
🍜 Crunchy toasted ramen noodles for texture
🌿 Tangy sesame-ginger dressing that’s light and flavorful
⏱️ Quick and easy to throw together
🍽️ Perfect for meal prep, potlucks, and light dinners

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 2 cups shredded green cabbage
• 1 cup shredded red cabbage
• 1½ cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or chopped
• 1 cup carrots, shredded
• ½ red bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 2 green onions, chopped
• ¼ cup cilantro, chopped (optional)
• 1 package instant ramen noodles (discard the seasoning packet)
• ¼ cup sliced almonds or sunflower seeds (optional)

For the Dressing

• ¼ cup olive oil or avocado oil
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce or coconut aminos
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger
• Salt and pepper to taste

How to Make It

Break the ramen noodles into small pieces and toast in a dry skillet over medium heat until golden and crisp, about 3–5 minutes. Set aside to cool.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the green and red cabbage, chicken, carrots, bell pepper, green onions, and cilantro.

In a separate bowl or jar, whisk together all dressing ingredients until smooth and well combined.

Pour the dressing over the salad and toss until everything is evenly coated.

Just before serving, sprinkle the toasted ramen noodles and almonds over the top for that perfect crunch. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Optional Add-Ins and Variations

• Add mandarin orange segments for sweetness
• Top with sesame seeds or chopped peanuts
• Swap cabbage for chopped romaine or napa cabbage
• Use rotisserie chicken for extra convenience
• Add a little sriracha or red pepper flakes for heat

Tips for Success

• Toast the ramen noodles for the best flavor and crunch
• Keep the noodles separate until serving to avoid sogginess
• Make the dressing in advance and store it in the fridge for up to a week
• Use pre-shredded veggies to save prep time
• Let the salad sit for 10 minutes before serving for the flavors to meld

Storage

Store the undressed salad and noodles separately in the fridge for up to 4 days
Add dressing and ramen just before serving to maintain crisp texture

Final Thoughts

This Healthy Chinese Chicken Salad with Crunchy Ramen Noodles is a colorful, satisfying, and crunchy meal that’s easy to make and full of bold flavor.

Whether you’re serving it for lunch, dinner, or bringing it to a party, it’s always a hit—and so much better than anything store-bought. Healthy eating never tasted so good! 🥗🍜🐔