This Crunchy Chicken Salad is a tasty mix of tender chicken, fresh veggies, and crunchy bits that make every bite fun! It’s perfect for a light lunch or a snack on a hot day.
You can add your favorite toppings like nuts or crispy noodles to give it that extra crunch. I love whipping this up when I want something quick and fresh—so easy and satisfying!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Cooked chicken breast is perfect for this salad. You can use leftover roast chicken or even rotisserie chicken for convenience. Alternatively, shredded tofu is a great choice for a vegetarian option.
Cabbage: Green and red cabbage add color and crunch. If you can’t find these, try using kale or coleslaw mix. Both offer a good texture and flavor.
Carrots: Grated or julienned carrots add sweetness. If you’re in a pinch, you could use pre-packaged shredded carrots or even zucchini for a different twist.
Bell Pepper: Red bell pepper brings a sweet crunch, but feel free to swap it for yellow or orange pepper. For a tangier kick, try using fresh jalapeños.
Herbs: Fresh cilantro or parsley enhances freshness. You can replace cilantro with basil for a unique twist or omit it if you’re not a fan.
Nuts and Seeds: Almonds and sesame seeds give that extra crunch. You can substitute almonds with sunflower seeds, walnuts, or even peanuts if allergies are a concern.
How Do I Make the Dressing Creamy Without Mayonnaise?
The dressing is key to tying all the flavors together! Instead of mayonnaise, we use olive oil and rice vinegar for a light dressing. Just whisk the ingredients together until smooth. You can add honey for a touch of sweetness, but it’s totally optional.
- Start with olive oil as your base for healthy fats.
- Add rice vinegar for tanginess. If you don’t have that, apple cider vinegar works too.
- Stir in soy sauce for savory depth.
- If you want to sweeten it up, include honey!
Mix everything in a jar or bowl until it’s well blended, and if you like a bit of spice, add a pinch of chili flakes!
How to Make Crunchy Chicken Salad?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or chopped
- 2 cups green cabbage, shredded
- 1 cup red cabbage, shredded
- 1 cup carrots, grated or julienned
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced thinly
- 1/2 cup green onions, chopped
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped
- 1/2 cup almonds, slivered or chopped
- 1/4 cup sesame seeds
For the Dressing:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 3 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This crunchy chicken salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare and can chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes if you want the flavors to blend beautifully. So, in about 45 minutes Max, you’ll be enjoying a fresh and tasty salad!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Salad Ingredients:
Grab a large mixing bowl and start adding your ingredients! Combine the shredded chicken, green cabbage, red cabbage, grated carrots, sliced red bell pepper, chopped green onions, and your choice of fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley. This colorful mix is the base of your salad, and it’s packed with crunch and flavor!
2. Whisk Together the Dressing:
In a small bowl or jar, add the olive oil, rice vinegar, soy sauce, and honey (if you’re using it). Season it with a pinch of salt and pepper. Whisk or shake well until everything is blended and smooth. This dressing will bring everything together in a delightful way!
3. Combine It All Together:
Pour the dressing over your salad mixture in the large bowl. Toss gently with your hands or a spatula to coat all the ingredients evenly. You want every bite to be delicious with that dressing!
4. Add the Crunchy Toppings:
Now it’s time to add some crunch! Sprinkle in the slivered almonds and sesame seeds, and toss everything again. This will give your salad that delightful bite we all love!
5. Serve or Chill:
Your crunchy chicken salad is nearly ready! You can serve it immediately if you’re hungry, or for even better flavor, cover it and chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes. When you’re ready to eat, enjoy this refreshing and crunchy salad!
Can I Use Raw Chicken Instead of Cooked Chicken?
Yes, you can use raw chicken, but you’ll need to cook it first! Boil or grill the chicken until fully cooked, then shred or chop it. Make sure to let it cool before adding it to the salad for the best texture.
What Can I Substitute for Honey?
If you prefer not to use honey, you can substitute it with maple syrup or agave nectar for a similar sweetness. If you’d like to skip the sweetness altogether, just omit it; the salad will still be delicious!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To keep the salad fresh, consider storing the dressing separately and adding it just before serving.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to This Salad?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize this salad by adding other vegetables like cucumbers, bell peppers, or radishes. Just make sure to keep the total quantity similar to maintain the balance of flavors.
