Keto-Friendly Chinese Chicken Salad – Light, Crunchy & Packed with Flavor!

If you’re following a low-carb or keto lifestyle but still crave something crunchy, fresh, and full of flavor, this Keto-Friendly Chinese Chicken Salad is the perfect pick.
It’s everything you love about the classic dish—shredded chicken, crisp cabbage, savory-sweet sesame dressing—without the sugar or high-carb noodles.
This salad is light but satisfying, with healthy fats, lean protein, and tons of texture. Whether you’re looking for a lunch that fuels your day or a refreshing dinner that won’t weigh you down, this easy recipe is a total win for healthy eating.
Why You’ll Love This Keto Chinese Chicken Salad
🥬 Low-carb & keto-approved, with no added sugar
🍗 Protein-rich, thanks to shredded chicken
🥢 Crisp, crunchy texture from cabbage and veggies
🥗 Zesty sesame dressing that’s sweet, savory, and sugar-free
⏱️ Quick to make, ready in about 20 minutes
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Salad:
- 2 cups shredded green cabbage
- 1 cup shredded red cabbage
- 1½ cups cooked chicken, shredded or chopped
- ½ cup shredded carrots (optional, use less for strict keto)
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 2 green onions, chopped
- ¼ cup sliced almonds or chopped peanuts (unsweetened)
- Optional: fresh cilantro or sesame seeds for garnish
For the Keto Sesame Dressing:
- ¼ cup olive oil or avocado oil
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar (no added sugar)
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce or coconut aminos (gluten-free & keto)
- 1 teaspoon powdered monk fruit sweetener (or erythritol)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon ground ginger or fresh grated ginger
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How to Make Keto Chinese Chicken Salad
🥣 In a large bowl, combine the green and red cabbage, chicken, carrots (if using), bell pepper, and green onions.
🥄 In a small 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 and glossy.
🌿 Sprinkle with sliced almonds, peanuts, or sesame seeds. Add fresh cilantro if desired.
🧊 Chill for 10–15 minutes for best flavor, or serve immediately for extra crunch!
Optional Add-Ins and Variations
🥬 Add baby spinach or chopped romaine for extra greens
🥑 Top with avocado slices for healthy fats
🥒 Mix in cucumber or zucchini ribbons for freshness
🌶️ Add sriracha or red pepper flakes for heat
🍋 A squeeze of lime juice brightens everything up
Tips for a Delicious Low-Carb Salad
✔ Skip sugary bottled dressings—make your own with keto-friendly ingredients
✔ Use rotisserie chicken or leftover grilled chicken for convenience
✔ Prep the dressing and chop veggies ahead to save time during the week
✔ Let the salad sit for a few minutes after dressing—it helps the flavors blend
Storage
📦 Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days
🥗 Keep dressing separate if storing ahead for the best texture
🥶 Not freezer-friendly, but great for make-ahead lunches
Final Thoughts
This Keto-Friendly Chinese Chicken Salad is light, flavorful, and packed with crunchy goodness—without the carbs.
With its crisp textures, savory-sweet dressing, and satisfying protein, it’s everything you want in a low-carb meal.
Perfect for lunch, dinner, or meal prep, it’s a clean, crave-worthy salad that fits your healthy lifestyle beautifully. 🥗🐔🥢