If you have ever dreamed of a salad that bursts with bold flavors, delivers a satisfying crunch, and is packed with wholesome goodness, then the Sesame Chicken Cabbage Crunch Salad Recipe is about to become your new go-to! This dish perfectly balances tender, juicy chicken with crisp cabbage and vibrant veggies, all brought together by a luscious sesame dressing that’s both tangy and sweet. Whether you want a quick weeknight dinner or a refreshing lunch, this recipe brings exciting textures and bright tastes into every bite — making healthy eating feel like a treat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these simple ingredients is the first step toward an unforgettable meal. Each component plays a vital role: the crunchy cabbage forms the base, the chicken adds protein and heartiness, while the veggies contribute color, flavor, and freshness. Plus, the roasted sesame seeds bring that signature nutty pop that truly elevates this salad.
- 2 cups shredded cabbage (green or purple): Provides a crunchy, refreshing foundation and adds vibrant color.
- 1 cup cooked chicken breast, diced (grilled or baked): Brings lean protein with tender, flavorful bites.
- ½ cup carrots, shredded: Adds sweetness and a lovely orange hue.
- ¼ cup green onions, sliced: Lends a sharp, fresh bite that livens up the salad.
- ¼ cup red bell pepper, thinly sliced: Offers crispness and a hint of sweetness.
- ½ cup cucumber, diced: Contributes cool, hydrating crunch to balance the flavors.
- ¼ cup roasted sesame seeds: Introduces nutty flavor and delightful texture, signature to this salad.
- ¼ cup chopped cilantro or parsley (optional): Adds fresh herbal brightness if you like an herby twist.
- For the dressing: Sesame oil, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, minced garlic, ginger, salt, and pepper — all combine to create a perfectly balanced tangy-sweet umami dressing.
How to Make Sesame Chicken Cabbage Crunch Salad Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
If your chicken isn’t already cooked, grill or bake the chicken breast until it’s fully cooked through. This ensures juicy, flavorful chunks that will complement the veggies beautifully. Let the chicken cool slightly before dicing it into bite-sized pieces, making it easier to mix into the salad later.
Step 2: Whisk the Sesame Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together sesame oil, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, minced garlic, and freshly grated ginger. Season it with salt and pepper to taste. This dressing is where the magic happens — a silky blend of tang and sweetness with deep, nutty undertones that ties every ingredient together perfectly.
Step 3: Assemble the Veggies
Use a large mixing bowl for this part. Toss together shredded cabbage, shredded carrots, sliced green onions, thinly sliced red bell pepper, and diced cucumber. This vibrant medley builds the foundation of your Sesame Chicken Cabbage Crunch Salad Recipe with its diverse textures and colors, inviting you to dive right in.
Step 4: Combine Chicken and Vegetables
Gently fold your diced chicken into the fresh vegetables. The warmth of the chicken will slightly soften the cabbage and release the fresh aromas from the veggies, creating a wonderful contrast with crunchy textures throughout the salad.
Step 5: Dress the Salad
Pour your prepared sesame dressing over the salad ingredients and toss everything gently but thoroughly until all the elements are evenly coated. This step infuses the salad with rich flavor and ensures every bite has that perfect balance of savory and sweet.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle roasted sesame seeds over the top and add chopped cilantro or parsley if you’re using them. These garnishes add beautiful color and a finishing flourish of fresh and nutty notes that bring the Sesame Chicken Cabbage Crunch Salad Recipe to life.
How to Serve Sesame Chicken Cabbage Crunch Salad Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkling some extra roasted sesame seeds or a handful of crunchy chopped peanuts on top adds texture and enhances the nutty flavor. A squeeze of fresh lime juice or a drizzle of extra sesame oil right before serving can also brighten the flavors wonderfully.
Side Dishes
This salad is a complete meal on its own, but if you want to round it out, serve it alongside steamed jasmine rice or crispy spring rolls for a full Asian-inspired feast. Grilled veggies or a simple miso soup would also partner beautifully by adding warmth and comfort.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun spin, try serving the salad in individual lettuce cups or crunchy edible bowls made from large cabbage leaves. Layering the salad components in a glass jar creates a stunning visual that’s perfect for packed lunches or picnics while keeping everything fresh and crisp.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To maintain crispness, store the dressing separately and toss just before serving, or lightly dress the salad and enjoy it within a day for best texture.
Freezing
Because this salad is packed with fresh, crunchy vegetables, freezing is not recommended. The texture of cabbage and raw veggies changes unfavorably after freezing, so you’ll want to enjoy this salad fresh for peak flavor and crunch.
Reheating
If you prefer to serve the chicken warm, heat it gently before combining it with the salad ingredients. Avoid reheating the entire salad to keep the veggies crisp. Adding the dressing right before serving also ensures maximum freshness and flavor.
FAQs
Can I use shredded rotisserie chicken instead of cooking my own?
Absolutely! Using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken is a wonderful shortcut that saves time and still gives you tender, flavorful chicken perfect for this salad.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian or vegan?
Yes, you can swap the chicken for crispy tofu or roasted chickpeas to keep the protein element while making the dish vegetarian or vegan-friendly. Just double-check that your dressing ingredients are vegan.
What can I substitute if I don’t have rice vinegar?
Apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar work nicely as alternatives. They bring that necessary tang to balance the sweet and savory flavors in the dressing.
Can I prep this salad the night before?
Yes, but for best results, keep the salad and dressing separate until just before serving to preserve the crunchiness of the cabbage and veggies.
How spicy is this Sesame Chicken Cabbage Crunch Salad Recipe?
It has a mild flavor profile, perfect for most palates. However, you can add a pinch of red chili flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the dressing if you want to kick up the heat.
Final Thoughts
This Sesame Chicken Cabbage Crunch Salad Recipe is one of those delightful meals that feels fresh, satisfying, and simply irresistible. It’s perfect for busy days, impressing guests, or whenever you want a nourishing dish bursting with flavor and texture. I truly encourage you to give this recipe a try — it might just become your favorite crowd-pleaser and a staple in your kitchen. Happy cooking and crunch away!
Print
Sesame Chicken Cabbage Crunch Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Asian-inspired
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A vibrant and crunchy Sesame Chicken Cabbage Crunch Salad featuring shredded cabbage, tender grilled chicken, fresh vegetables, and a flavorful sesame dressing. Perfect for a healthy and quick dinner packed with texture and Asian-inspired flavors.
Ingredients
Salad
- 2 cups shredded cabbage (green or purple)
- 1 cup cooked chicken breast, diced (grilled or baked)
- ½ cup shredded carrots
- ¼ cup sliced green onions
- ¼ cup thinly sliced red bell pepper
- ½ cup diced cucumber
- ¼ cup roasted sesame seeds
- ¼ cup chopped cilantro or parsley (optional)
Dressing
- 2 tbsp sesame oil
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tsp grated fresh ginger
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Cook the chicken: If chicken is not pre-cooked, grill or bake the chicken breast until fully cooked. Allow it to cool, then dice into bite-sized pieces.
- Prepare the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together sesame oil, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Season with salt and pepper to taste and set aside.
- Combine vegetables: In a large mixing bowl, combine shredded cabbage, shredded carrots, sliced green onions, red bell pepper, and diced cucumber.
- Add chicken: Gently fold the diced chicken breast into the vegetable mixture ensuring even distribution.
- Toss with dressing: Pour the prepared sesame dressing over the salad and toss thoroughly until every ingredient is coated evenly with the dressing.
- Finish and serve: Sprinkle roasted sesame seeds and chopped cilantro or parsley over the salad. Serve immediately or refrigerate for 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Notes
- Use either green or purple cabbage based on your preference or what is available.
- Grilling the chicken adds a smoky flavor, but baking works just as well for a lighter option.
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing.
- This salad can be made ahead and chilled for up to 1 day, though the sesame seeds are best added just before serving to keep their crunch.
- Optional cilantro or parsley adds freshness and vibrant color to the salad.
