Delightful Sesame Chicken Cabbage Crunch Salad Recipe

Imagine diving into a bowl of vibrant greens, crunchy vegetables, and tender chicken, all drizzled with a luscious sesame dressing that dances on your taste buds. The Sesame Chicken Cabbage Crunch Salad is not just a dish; it’s an experience that sings of freshness and flavor, perfect for those sunny afternoons when you want something light yet satisfying.

This salad brings back memories of family gatherings where laughter filled the air, and delicious aromas wafted through the kitchen. It was the star of many potlucks, stealing the show and leaving everyone begging for the recipe. Get ready to savor layers of texture and taste in this colorful creation that will have your guests clamoring for seconds. For more inspiration, check out this delicious lunch ideas recipe.

One summer barbecue, I served this salad to some skeptical friends who were convinced salads were boring. Their faces lit up with surprise after the first bite, and by the end of dinner, they were fighting over leftovers! For more inspiration, check out this easy dinner recipes recipe.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 chicken breasts work best; adjust as needed based on your crowd size.

• Green Cabbage: Choose a fresh head of cabbage for that perfect crunch; it holds up well in the dressing.

• Red Bell Pepper: This adds vibrant color and sweetness; look for firm peppers with smooth skin.

• Carrots: Fresh carrots provide crunch; peel them thinly for better texture.

• Cilantro: Fresh cilantro brightens flavors; use as much or as little as you like based on preference.

• Sesame Oil: A key ingredient in dressing; opt for toasted sesame oil for its deep flavor.

• Soy Sauce: Use low-sodium soy sauce to control saltiness without sacrificing flavor.

• Rice Vinegar: This adds zing; choose unseasoned rice vinegar for best results.

• Honey or Maple Syrup: A touch of sweetness balances flavors nicely; use pure maple syrup if desired.

• Sesame Seeds: Toast these lightly before sprinkling on top to enhance their nutty flavor.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Sesame Chicken Cabbage Crunch Salad

Start by preparing the chicken: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add olive oil. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper before placing them in the skillet. Cook until golden brown on both sides, about 5-7 minutes per side.

While the chicken cooks, chop your vegetables: Thinly slice the cabbage, bell pepper, and carrots. Place them in a large mixing bowl along with chopped cilantro. The colors should be bright and inviting!

Next up is making the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together sesame oil, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey or maple syrup, and sesame seeds. Taste it—balance is key! Adjust sweetness or saltiness as needed.

Once the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C), remove it from heat: Let it rest for about 5 minutes before slicing it into thin strips. This helps lock in juices!

Combine everything: Pour your dressing over the chopped veggies and toss gently until everything is coated beautifully. Add sliced chicken on top and give it another gentle toss.

Serve immediately or let it chill: This salad can be enjoyed right away or refrigerated for about an hour to let flavors meld even more beautifully. Enjoy your crunchy masterpiece!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

To achieve optimal flavor, cook the chicken until golden brown before mixing it with the salad. This ensures a deliciously crispy texture while the salad remains fresh and crunchy.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out chicken for tofu or shrimp. You can also add your favorite veggies or nuts for extra crunch and flavor, making this dish uniquely yours.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge. For best quality, consume within two days without reheating, as freshness is key.

I remember the first time I made this salad for a summer barbecue; my friends couldn’t stop raving about it. The laughter and compliments turned what could’ve been an ordinary meal into a cherished memory.

FAQ

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Absolutely! Simply replace the chicken with tofu or chickpeas for a delicious vegan version.

What type of cabbage works best?

Napa cabbage adds a mild flavor and crunchy texture that pairs perfectly with this salad.

How long does this salad stay fresh?

This salad stays fresh for up to two days when stored properly in the fridge.

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Sesame Chicken Cabbage Crunch Salad

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Dive into a vibrant bowl of Sesame Chicken Cabbage Crunch Salad, a delightful fusion of tender chicken, crispy cabbage, and colorful veggies, all dressed in a rich sesame dressing. Perfect for sunny days or potlucks, this salad is not only visually appealing but also packed with flavor and texture that will leave your guests asking for the recipe. Enjoy it as a refreshing side or a satisfying meal!

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Ingredients

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• 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb)
• 4 cups green cabbage, thinly sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 2 medium carrots, peeled and thinly sliced
• ½ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• ¼ cup toasted sesame oil
• 3 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
• 2 tbsp unseasoned rice vinegar
• 1 tbsp honey or pure maple syrup
• 2 tbsp sesame seeds, toasted

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Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper; cook until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C), about 5-7 minutes per side. Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
2. In a large bowl, combine cabbage, bell pepper, carrots, and cilantro.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together sesame oil, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey or maple syrup, and sesame seeds to make the dressing.
4. Pour the dressing over the vegetable mixture and toss gently to coat. Top with sliced chicken and serve immediately or chill for enhanced flavors.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Salad
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: Asian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bowl (approx. 250g)
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 550mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 15g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Fiber: 6g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 70mg