Crunchy Asian Chicken Salad with Sesame Vinaigrette

There’s something irresistibly satisfying about a salad that goes beyond the basics. I’m talking about a meal-worthy kind of salad—one that’s crisp, refreshing, and layered with flavor and texture in every bite. That’s exactly what you get with this Crunchy Asian Chicken Salad with Sesame Vinaigrette. It’s light yet filling, refreshing but rich in savory goodness, and it comes together in no time with a few wholesome ingredients.

The first time I made this salad, I had just come home from a weekend road trip. I was craving something fresh after a string of greasy diner meals, and this salad absolutely delivered. It was quick to whip up, packed with veggies I already had in the fridge, and the dressing? Oh, the dressing. It’s tangy, slightly sweet, and full of sesame-forward depth that coats every crunchy bite like a dream.

What makes this salad a go-to in our house is how easy it is to make and how customizable it can be. Whether you’re using up leftover grilled chicken, tossing in your favorite crunchy veggies, or making it vegetarian with tofu, this is one of those recipes that works for any mood or moment. It’s great for a quick lunch, a light dinner, or even as a standout side dish at your next gathering.

It also holds up surprisingly well in the fridge, making it a fantastic option for weekly meal prep. Plus, you don’t need any complicated tools or fancy ingredients—just a good chopping board, a big mixing bowl, and a whisk for the vinaigrette.

So if you’re looking for a healthy, satisfying, and flavor-packed meal that doesn’t take a ton of time or effort, stick around. This crunchy chicken salad is about to become your new favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Crunchy Asian chicken salad Recipe

It’s Ridiculously Easy to Make

Let’s start with the obvious. This salad is simple. Like weeknight-dinner-after-a-long-day simple. You can use rotisserie chicken to skip cooking entirely, or grill up a few chicken breasts if you have extra time. The dressing comes together in just a few shakes or whisk stirs, and the rest is just chopping and tossing. It’s honestly one of the least stressful recipes you can make while still feeling like you’ve done something special.

It’s Packed with Flavor and Texture

Every bite of this salad hits all the right notes. You’ve got tender chicken, crisp shredded cabbage or coleslaw mix, crunchy almonds, creamy avocado, fresh cilantro, and carrots that give you that little extra sweetness. The green onions add just a touch of sharpness, and when you drizzle everything with that sesame vinaigrette? Game over. It’s tangy, nutty, slightly sweet, and perfectly balanced with a bit of garlic and ginger warmth.

It’s Family-Friendly and Crowd-Pleasing

Whether you’re feeding picky eaters or adventurous foodies, this salad fits right in. It’s colorful and fresh, which makes it instantly appealing, and the familiar flavors are comforting but just unique enough to feel exciting. Even kids usually love this one—especially when they get to help sprinkle on the almonds and sesame seeds.

It’s Versatile and Customizable

You can easily adapt this salad to fit your needs. Want to go vegetarian? Swap the chicken for crispy tofu or edamame. Need a low-carb option? Skip the sweetener in the vinaigrette and reduce the carrots. Gluten-free? Use tamari instead of soy sauce. You can even switch out the herbs, add sliced cucumbers, or try it with mango for a fruity twist. The possibilities are endless.

Health Benefits of this Crunchy Asian chicken salad

It’s Loaded with Fresh Vegetables

This salad is a powerhouse of fresh, raw veggies that bring plenty of fiber, antioxidants, and vitamins to the table. Cabbage, in particular, is a cruciferous vegetable known for its cancer-fighting compounds and digestive benefits. Carrots offer beta-carotene for eye health, and green onions provide a little vitamin C and K.

Lean Protein Keeps You Satisfied

Chicken is a fantastic source of lean protein, which helps keep you full and supports muscle repair and growth. If you opt for grilled or baked chicken breast, you’re adding high-quality protein without excess fat. This is ideal if you’re watching your calorie intake or trying to maintain a balanced diet.

Healthy Fats from Avocado and Almonds

Avocados are rich in heart-healthy monounsaturated fats and also provide fiber, potassium, and folate. Almonds add a satisfying crunch and a dose of vitamin E, magnesium, and more healthy fats. These ingredients make the salad more filling and help with nutrient absorption—especially the fat-soluble vitamins found in all those fresh veggies.

The Dressing Is Wholesome and Balanced

Unlike heavy, creamy dressings that can weigh a salad down, this sesame vinaigrette is light and made with simple, nourishing ingredients. You’ve got heart-healthy oils, a bit of natural sweetness from maple syrup or honey, and flavorful additions like ginger and garlic. It’s free from preservatives, added sodium, or artificial flavors—just real food doing its thing.

It Supports Balanced Eating

This salad checks all the boxes: protein, healthy fats, fiber, and micronutrients. It keeps your energy stable throughout the day and can be a satisfying part of a healthy eating plan. Plus, because it’s so flavorful, you won’t feel deprived or bored—making it easier to stick to nutritious habits long-term.

Preparation Time, Servings, and Nutritional Information of this Crunchy Asian chicken salad

Total Preparation Time

One of the best parts about this salad is how quickly it comes together. Here’s the breakdown:

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time (if cooking chicken): 10–15 minutes
Total time: 20–30 minutes (depending on whether the chicken is pre-cooked)

Servings

This recipe serves 4 generous portions as a main dish or 6–8 smaller portions as a side.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Based on 4 Servings)

Calories: 410
Protein: 28g
Carbohydrates: 18g
Fiber: 6g
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 70mg
Sodium: 470mg
Sugar: 6g

These numbers may vary slightly depending on the exact ingredients and amounts used, especially the type of oil and sweetener in the dressing.

Ingredients List of this Crunchy Asian chicken salad

For the Salad

• 4 cups coleslaw mix or shredded cabbage (green or a mix of green and purple)
• 2 cups cooked chicken, diced or shredded (rotisserie, grilled, or baked)
• ½ cup shredded carrots
• 2 green onions, thinly sliced
• ⅓ cup fresh cilantro, roughly chopped
• 1 avocado, diced
• ⅓ cup toasted sliced or slivered almonds
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)

Each ingredient plays a key role. The coleslaw mix offers a crunchy, sturdy base. The chicken makes it hearty. The carrots add color and a hint of sweetness, while the green onions give that sharp, zesty bite. Cilantro brings freshness, the avocado adds creamy contrast, and the almonds give you the perfect toasty crunch. Finally, sesame seeds round it all out with a nutty finish.

For the Sesame Vinaigrette

• 3 tablespoons neutral oil (avocado oil or canola oil work well)
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari (for gluten-free)
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey
• 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
• ½ teaspoon ground ginger (or 1 teaspoon freshly grated)
• 1 garlic clove, finely minced
• Pinch of black pepper, to taste

This vinaigrette is so simple but so bold. The rice vinegar gives it tang, the soy sauce adds umami, and the sesame oil brings that unmistakable toasted depth. Maple syrup or honey balances everything out without being too sweet, and the garlic and ginger give it warmth and zing.

Step-By-Step Cooking Instructions of this Crunchy Asian chicken salad

Step 1: Prep the Chicken (If Not Using Pre-Cooked)

If you’re using raw chicken, season it with a pinch of salt, pepper, and a dash of garlic powder. Grill, bake, or sauté it until fully cooked, then let it rest before dicing or shredding. For speed, rotisserie chicken or leftover grilled chicken works perfectly.

Tip: Don’t overcook the chicken—keeping it moist is key for the best salad texture.

Step 2: Toast the Almonds

If your almonds aren’t already toasted, simply place them in a dry skillet over medium heat. Stir frequently for 3–5 minutes until golden and fragrant. Let them cool before adding to the salad.

Toasting enhances flavor and adds that extra bit of crunch that makes this salad special.

Step 3: Make the Sesame Vinaigrette

In a small bowl or jar, combine oil, rice vinegar, soy sauce (or tamari), maple syrup (or honey), toasted sesame oil, ginger, garlic, and black pepper.

Whisk everything together until well blended. Alternatively, place everything in a jar with a lid and shake vigorously.

Tip: Taste and adjust. If you want it tangier, add a splash more vinegar. Need a little more sweetness? Add an extra drizzle of maple syrup.

Step 4: Chop and Prepare Salad Ingredients

Grab a large bowl. Add the coleslaw mix or shredded cabbage, shredded carrots, diced or shredded chicken, chopped cilantro, green onions, and avocado.

Tip: If making ahead, add the avocado last just before serving to prevent browning.

Step 5: Assemble the Salad

Drizzle the sesame vinaigrette over the salad ingredients in the large bowl. Start with half the dressing and add more as needed—you want everything lightly coated but not drowning.

Toss gently using tongs or clean hands, being careful not to mash the avocado.

Step 6: Add Crunchy Toppings and Serve

Sprinkle the toasted almonds and sesame seeds over the top of the tossed salad. Serve immediately, or chill briefly before serving for an extra-refreshing experience.

Optional: For a heartier meal, serve over rice noodles or cooked quinoa.

How to Serve thid Crunchy Asian chicken salad

Serve It Fresh and Chilled

The best way to enjoy this Crunchy Asian Chicken Salad is fresh and slightly chilled. Once you’ve tossed everything together with the sesame vinaigrette, let it sit in the fridge for about 10 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together while keeping the texture crisp. The chilled salad feels refreshing and light, making it perfect for warm-weather meals or a mid-day pick-me-up.

As a Main Dish

This salad is hearty enough to stand on its own as a complete meal. It’s protein-packed, filled with veggies, and balanced with healthy fats from avocado and almonds. Serve it in large bowls and top with a few extra sesame seeds for presentation. If you’re meal-prepping, portion it into containers for quick grab-and-go lunches during the week.

As a Side Dish

If you’re planning a larger meal, this salad makes an excellent side. It pairs well with grilled kebabs, rice dishes, or even a light soup. The flavors are bold without overpowering other dishes, and the crunch adds contrast to softer mains like rice bowls or noodle soups.

Build-Your-Own Salad Bar

This is a fun option for gatherings or family dinners. Set out all the salad ingredients in separate bowls and let everyone build their own plate. It’s a great way to accommodate different tastes and dietary needs, and kids love choosing their own toppings.

Wrap It Up

For something different, wrap the salad in a large tortilla or lettuce leaves for a delicious and portable wrap. The flavors hold up well in wrap form, and it makes an easy lunchbox option too.

Pairing Suggestions

With Soups

This salad complements light, broth-based soups beautifully. Try it with a miso soup, chicken and ginger soup, or even a homemade vegetable broth with rice noodles. The warmth of the soup contrasts perfectly with the cold, crunchy texture of the salad.

With Rice or Noodles

Pairing this salad with jasmine rice, brown rice, or rice noodles makes it even more filling and comforting. You can even toss the rice noodles into the salad for a cold noodle variation that works great in the summer months.

With Grilled or Baked Sides

Simple grilled chicken skewers, tofu steaks, or teriyaki-glazed salmon make excellent companions for this salad. Because the sesame vinaigrette is so flavorful, you’ll want to keep the proteins seasoned but not overly saucy.

Beverages That Complement

For a refreshing non-alcoholic drink, try pairing the salad with iced green tea, a citrusy sparkling water, or cucumber-mint lemonade. These drinks enhance the fresh flavor profile of the salad without overwhelming it.

For those looking for wine-free adult beverages, a ginger-spiced mocktail with lime or a lemongrass iced herbal tea would match the sesame and ginger notes beautifully.

For Kids

Serve the salad with a side of fluffy dinner rolls, lightly buttered noodles, or simple rice crackers to make it more approachable for younger eaters. You can even leave out the cilantro or avocado if your child has a more selective palate.

Storage, Freezing & Reheating Instructions

How to Store Leftovers

This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but it does keep well in the fridge for a short time. To store leftovers, place the salad in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days. If you’ve already dressed the salad, it may lose some of its crunch, but the flavor will still be delicious.

Tip: If you’re making the salad ahead, keep the vinaigrette separate and mix just before serving to preserve texture.

Can You Freeze It?

Because this salad is made with fresh vegetables and avocado, it is not freezer-friendly. The cabbage and carrots tend to go limp, and the avocado can become watery or discolored after thawing. However, you can freeze cooked chicken separately and use it later when you’re ready to assemble a fresh batch.

To freeze chicken:

• Allow cooked chicken to cool completely.
• Store in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.
• Thaw overnight in the fridge before using.

Reheating Instructions (If Needed)

There’s no need to reheat the salad itself, but if you’ve refrigerated or frozen the chicken, you may want to warm it slightly before adding it to the salad. A quick zap in the microwave or a gentle sauté in a pan with a tiny bit of oil will do the trick.

Tip: If reheating, avoid adding the avocado and dressing until after the chicken is warm to maintain the right texture and flavor balance.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overdressing the Salad

It’s easy to get carried away with that delicious sesame vinaigrette, but too much dressing can weigh the salad down and make it soggy. Always start with a small amount and add more as needed. You can even serve extra vinaigrette on the side for those who like a saucier salad.

Adding Avocado Too Early

Avocado is best added right before serving. If you mix it in too early, it can brown and soften too much, losing its fresh, creamy texture. If you’re making the salad ahead of time, keep the avocado on the side and fold it in just before eating.

Not Toasting the Almonds

Raw almonds are fine, but taking a few minutes to toast them makes a huge difference in flavor and crunch. It’s a simple step that adds depth and makes the salad feel more special.

Using Overcooked Chicken

Dry chicken can make the salad feel bland or overly chewy. If cooking your chicken from scratch, aim for a juicy, well-seasoned result. Don’t overcook it—let it rest before slicing, and always taste for seasoning before adding to the salad.

Forgetting to Season the Salad

Even with a flavorful dressing, a little salt and pepper directly on the veggies or chicken can elevate the entire dish. Give it a taste before serving and adjust as needed.

Pro Tips

Use Rotisserie Chicken for Speed

If you’re in a rush, grab a rotisserie chicken from your local market. It’s already cooked, flavorful, and shreds beautifully into the salad. Just remove the skin and bones, then chop or pull the meat apart.

Prep Ahead for Meal Planning

Chop your veggies and cook your chicken in advance. Store the components separately in airtight containers in the fridge. When it’s time to eat, toss everything together with the dressing and enjoy a super quick meal that tastes freshly made.

Try Homemade Coleslaw Mix

For the freshest flavor and maximum crunch, shred your own cabbage instead of using bagged coleslaw mix. A mix of green and purple cabbage with some shredded carrots adds beautiful color and texture.

Adjust the Dressing to Your Taste

This dressing is very forgiving. Want it sweeter? Add a little extra maple syrup or honey. Prefer it tangier? A splash more rice vinegar will do the trick. For extra sesame flavor, add more toasted sesame oil—but just a little goes a long way.

Keep it Crunchy

To ensure every bite has that satisfying crunch, add the toasted almonds and sesame seeds just before serving. If you’re packing the salad for lunch, store the toppings separately and mix them in when you’re ready to eat.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can! Just keep the dressing, avocado, and crunchy toppings (like almonds and sesame seeds) separate until you’re ready to eat. Combine everything just before serving for the freshest texture.

Can I use pre-packaged coleslaw mix?

Absolutely. It’s a huge time saver and works great in this recipe. Look for one that includes shredded cabbage and carrots for extra color and crunch.

What’s the best type of chicken to use?

Any cooked chicken will work—grilled, baked, poached, or rotisserie. Make sure it’s tender and flavorful. Leftovers are perfect here. Just dice or shred before adding to the salad.

Can I make it vegetarian?

Yes! Replace the chicken with crispy tofu, tempeh, or edamame for a plant-based version. The rest of the salad and the dressing are already vegetarian-friendly.

How do I make it gluten-free?

Use tamari instead of soy sauce in the vinaigrette to keep everything gluten-free. Double-check your coleslaw mix and other ingredients to ensure there are no hidden sources of gluten.

Is this salad dairy-free?

It sure is! There’s no cheese or dairy in this recipe, making it naturally dairy-free and friendly for those with sensitivities.

How can I make it spicier?

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing or toss in some thinly sliced red chili or jalapeño for a spicy twist. Sriracha or chili garlic sauce on the side is also a great option.

Can I meal prep this salad?

Definitely. Store the salad components separately in the fridge and mix everything together just before serving. The dressing will last up to a week in the fridge.

How long does the vinaigrette last?

Stored in a sealed jar in the refrigerator, the sesame vinaigrette keeps well for up to 7 days. Shake or whisk it again before using, as the ingredients may separate.

Can I add fruit to this salad?

Yes! Sliced mango, mandarin oranges, or even apple matchsticks can add a sweet, refreshing contrast to the savory flavors in the salad.

Conclusion & Call to Action

This Crunchy Asian Chicken Salad with Sesame Vinaigrette isn’t just another salad—it’s a craveable, full-of-flavor, eat-the-whole-bowl kind of dish that you’ll come back to again and again. It’s quick to make, totally customizable, and balanced in all the right ways. Whether you’re making lunch for one, prepping meals for the week, or feeding a crowd, this salad delivers every time.

I hope you give it a try and love it as much as we do. When you do, I’d love to hear how it turns out! Drop a comment below, share your tips or variations, and don’t forget to tag me on social media with your delicious creation. Seeing your takes on this salad is always the best part of sharing recipes like this.

Now go grab that cabbage, whip up the vinaigrette, and let your taste buds thank you later. You’ve got this.

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