Healthy Chinese Chicken Salad Recipe – Crunchy, Fresh & Flavorful

When you’re craving something light, healthy, and packed with flavor, this Healthy Chinese Chicken Salad is the answer.

It’s crisp, colorful, and full of texture—from crunchy cabbage and carrots to juicy chicken and crispy wonton strips—all tossed in a zingy sesame-ginger dressing that brings it all together.

It’s the perfect meal when you want something refreshing but still satisfying. Great for meal prep, quick lunches, or weeknight dinners, this salad delivers bold Asian-inspired flavor in every bite—without feeling heavy or greasy.

Why You’ll Love This Chinese Chicken Salad

🍗 Protein-packed with lean chicken breast
🥬 Crunchy and colorful, thanks to cabbage, carrots, and veggies
🍜 Bold and tangy dressing with sesame and ginger
⏱️ Quick and easy, ready in under 30 minutes
🥗 Naturally gluten-free & dairy-free (with simple swaps)

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Salad:

• 2 cups shredded green cabbage
• 1 cup shredded red cabbage
• 1 cup cooked chicken breast, shredded or chopped
• 1 large carrot, shredded or julienned
• 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 2 green onions, sliced
• ¼ cup chopped cilantro (optional)
• ½ cup crunchy toppings: sliced almonds, sunflower seeds, or crispy wonton strips

For the Sesame-Ginger Dressing:

• 3 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
• 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
• 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil
• 1 teaspoon sriracha (optional, for heat)

How to Make Healthy Chinese Chicken Salad

🥗 In a large bowl, combine shredded cabbages, chicken, carrot, bell pepper, green onions, and cilantro (if using).

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

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

🌿 Top with crunchy toppings like almonds, seeds, or wonton strips right before serving.

🧊 Chill for 10–15 minutes (optional) to let flavors meld, or serve immediately!

Optional Add-Ins and Variations

🥬 Add chopped romaine or kale for more greens
🍊 Toss in mandarin oranges or pineapple for a fruity twist
🥑 Add sliced avocado for extra creaminess
🧄 Use a store-bought sesame dressing if short on time
🌶️ Sprinkle with crushed red pepper flakes for extra heat

Tips for the Best Chinese Chicken Salad

✔ Use pre-shredded cabbage and rotisserie chicken for a shortcut
✔ Let the salad sit for a few minutes after dressing for deeper flavor
✔ Add crispy toppings just before serving to keep them crunchy
✔ Double the dressing—it stores well and is great on other salads or noodles

Storage

📦 Refrigerate undressed salad and dressing separately for up to 3 days
🍱 Dressed salad will keep for 1–2 days but may lose crunch
🥡 Perfect for meal prep or healthy lunch boxes

Final Thoughts

This Healthy Chinese Chicken Salad is everything I want in a refreshing meal—crunchy, satisfying, and bursting with flavor. It’s easy to make, full of wholesome ingredients, and totally customizable to whatever you have on hand. Whether you’re enjoying it for lunch or serving it at your next cookout, this salad is guaranteed to impress. 🥗💛🥢