Chinese Chicken Salad
Ingredients:
2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or chopped (rotisserie chicken works well)
4 cups mixed greens (such as iceberg lettuce, cabbage, or romaine)
1 cup shredded carrots
1/2 cup red bell pepper, thinly sliced
1/2 cup cucumber, thinly sliced
1/4 cup green onions (scallions), chopped
1/4 cup sliced almonds, toasted
1/4 cup sesame seeds, toasted
1/2 cup chow mein noodles (optional, for crunch)
For the Dressing:
3 tbsp soy sauce
2 tbsp rice vinegar
2 tbsp honey or sugar (adjust to taste)
2 tbsp sesame oil
1 tbsp vegetable oil
1 tsp fresh grated ginger
1 clove garlic, minced
1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
Instructions:
Prepare the Dressing:
In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey (or sugar), sesame oil, vegetable oil, grated ginger, minced garlic, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Taste and adjust sweetness or saltiness as needed.
Prepare the Salad:
In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, mixed greens, shredded carrots, bell pepper, cucumber, and green onions. Toss gently to combine.
Add Toppings:
Sprinkle the toasted almonds, sesame seeds, and chow mein noodles (if using) over the salad for added crunch and flavor.
Toss with Dressing:
Pour the dressing over the salad and toss everything together until evenly coated.
Serve:
Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to an hour before serving. If making ahead, keep the dressing separate and add just before serving to maintain the crunchiness of the toppings.