0 Shares

As I tossed the vibrant greens and juicy mango into a bowl, the delightful crunch of the wonton strips signaled the start of something truly special. This Chinois Chicken Salad is a knockout—bringing together fresh, Asian-inspired flavors that’ll whisk your taste buds away. Perfect for those moments when you’re craving something light yet genuinely satisfying, this salad masterfully combines tender chicken, a creamy peanut dressing, and a colorful mix of vegetables. Picture this: a quick preparation that delivers both nutrition and joy, making it ideal for lunch or dinner after a long day. If you’re bored of the usual fast food routine and looking to indulge in a vibrant, homemade meal, this is the recipe you’ve been waiting for. Let’s dive into creating a dish that’s as visually stunning as it is delicious!

Why is Chinois Salad a Must-Try?

Chinois Salad elevates your meal with its irresistible flavors and textures. Fresh ingredients shine through, providing a burst of nutrition with each bite. Quick preparation means you can whip this up in no time, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Versatile options allow you to swap in your favorite proteins or veggies. Plus, the creamy peanut dressing adds a unique twist, ensuring everyone at the table will be asking for seconds! Embrace the vibrant simplicity of this salad and discover why it will become a staple in your home-cooked meals.

Chinois Salad Ingredients

For the Dressing
• Rice Wine Vinegar – Adds acidity and brightness; can substitute with apple cider vinegar if needed.
• Dijon Mustard – Provides tang and depth of flavor in the dressing.
• Low Sodium Soy Sauce – Adds umami and saltiness; swap in Tamari for a gluten-free option.
• Egg Yolk – Contributes creaminess and richness; mayonnaise can be used for creaminess without the egg if desired.
• Honey – Balances the tangy dressing with a touch of sweetness.
• Chopped Pickled Ginger – Enhances the dressing with a unique flavor profile.
• Chili Oil – Adds heat and complexity; use a pinch of red pepper flakes for less heat.
• Sesame Paste (or Tahini) – Delivers nuttiness and richness; light tahini is a perfect substitute.
• Salt and Pepper – Essential for seasoning the dressing.
• Roasted Peanut Oil – Serves as the base oil, imparting a rich, nutty flavor.

For the Salad
• Chicken Breasts – Provides protein; cook and slice thin before adding; grilling adds great flavor, but pan-searing works too.
• Napa Cabbage – The main base, adding delightful crunch and texture.
• Mixed Greens – For added flavor and nutrients.
• Radicchio – Introduces bitterness and color to the salad.
• Carrots – Provide sweetness and crunch, best when julienned.
• Mango – Adds a tropical touch and sweetness; orange slices can be a good substitute if needed.
• Wonton Strips – For a satisfying crunch on top; use pre-packaged for convenience or fry them at home.
• Toasted Cashews – Bring extra crunch and nuttiness to each bite.
• Toasted Sesame Seeds – Perfect for sprinkling on top for garnish and texture.

Enjoy crafting this Chinois Salad—a delightful blend of flavors and textures that will surely impress your family and friends!

How to Make Chinois Salad

Prepare the Dressing: In a blender, combine rice wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, soy sauce, egg yolk, honey, pickled ginger, chili oil, sesame paste, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth. Slowly drizzle in roasted peanut oil while blending until creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning to your liking.
Cook the Chicken: Grill or pan-sear the chicken breasts until cooked through and juices run clear. Slice thinly for easy mixing and an appealing presentation.
Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, mix together the sliced chicken, napa cabbage, mixed greens, radicchio, julienned carrots, mango, wonton strips, toasted cashews, and sesame seeds for a delightful combination of textures and flavors.
Dress the Salad: Pour half of the creamy dressing over the assembled salad and toss gently to coat the ingredients evenly. If desired, adjust with more dressing to reach your preferred flavor.
Plate the Salad: Serve the salad in a visually appealing dome or cone shape on individual plates or a large serving dish for a beautiful presentation.

Optional: Garnish with additional toasted sesame seeds for a finishing touch.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with Chinois Chicken Salad?

Indulging in the vibrant flavors of Chinois Chicken Salad creates the perfect moment to consider delightful accompaniments.

Crispy Spring Rolls: The crunch of spring rolls pairs wonderfully with the salad’s fresh textures, enhancing your Asian-inspired meal.
Grilled Asparagus: Lightly charred asparagus offers a smoky flavor that contrasts nicely with the creamy peanut dressing, making every bite harmonious.
Coconut Rice: This subtly sweet and fluffy side adds a tropical twist that echoes the flavors of the mango, elevating your dining experience.
Spicy Edamame: Tossed with sea salt and chili flakes, this healthy snack complements the salad’s crunch and adds a kick to your meal.
Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup, rich in umami, provides a comforting counterbalance to the zesty salad while staying true to the Asian theme.
Chilled Sake: This smooth Japanese rice wine enhances the meal’s flavors and sets a relaxed, flavorful tone, perfect for winding down after a busy day.

Chinois Salad Variations

Customize your Chinois Salad with these delightful twists that’ll excite your taste buds and suit any dietary preference!

Protein Swap: Substitute chicken with grilled shrimp or marinated tofu for a refreshing take. Both options offer unique flavors that complement the salad’s vibrant ingredients.
Fruit Fiesta: Mix in seasonal fruits like strawberries or mandarin oranges. This not only enhances sweetness but also adds beautiful colors to your dish, drawing everyone’s attention.
Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs such as cilantro or mint for an aromatic lift. These herbs can elevate the overall experience, giving your salad a restaurant-quality flair.
Flavor Boost: For an extra kick, toss in finely chopped chili peppers or a drizzle of sriracha. This addition will ignite your palate and create a mouthwatering harmony with the creamy dressing.
Crunchy Alternatives: Replace wonton strips with crispy chickpeas or baked tortilla chips. This crispy twist offers a new texture and can be a healthier alternative while still satisfying your crunch craving.
Dressing Experiment: Swap the peanut dressing for a sesame dressing or a yogurt-based dressing for a tangier flavor profile. The change in dressings can inspire creativity and round out your salad beautifully.
Vegetable Variety: Incorporate additional veggies, such as bell peppers or cucumbers, for extra crunch and color. This added freshness enhances nutritional value while keeping things interesting.
Noodle Addition: For a heartier version, toss in some cooked soba noodles or rice noodles. They’ll add a comforting texture and make the salad more filling, perfect for a main dish.

Embrace your creativity and enjoy the journey of crafting a Chinois Salad that’s uniquely yours!

Make Ahead Options

These Chinois Chicken Salad components are perfect for meal prep and can save you valuable time on busy weeknights! You can prepare the creamy peanut dressing up to 3 days in advance—just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep it fresh and flavorful. Similarly, grill and slice the chicken breasts ahead of time, allowing them to cool before refrigerating for up to 24 hours. For assembly, chop the napa cabbage, mixed greens, and other salad ingredients the day before; simply store them in separate containers to maintain their crispness. When you’re ready to serve, toss the salad with the dressing and enjoy a delicious meal just as fresh as if you made it on the spot!

Expert Tips for Chinois Salad

Taste as You Blend: Always taste your dressing while blending to ensure the balance of sweetness from honey and heat from chili oil is just right.
Juicy Chicken: When cooking chicken, ensure it’s cooked through but remains moist. Slice it thinly for maximum tenderness and flavor in your Chinois Salad.
Crispy Wontons: For the perfect crunch, opt for fried wonton strips. If you’re short on time, pre-packaged ones work wonderfully as a quick substitute.
Ingredient Freshness: Use the freshest ingredients you can find, especially for the greens and mango. This enhances the vibrant flavors of your Chinois Salad.
Experiment with Proteins: Feel free to swap chicken for shrimp or tofu to cater to different dietary preferences while still enjoying the salad’s delightful taste.
Seasoning Adjustments: Don’t shy away from adjusting salt and pepper according to your palate. A little fine-tuning can take your salad to the next level!

How to Store and Freeze Chinois Salad

Room Temperature: Chinois Salad is best enjoyed fresh, but if necessary, it can sit out for up to 2 hours before needing refrigeration.
Fridge: Store any leftover salad in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keep the dressing separate to maintain the crispness of the greens.
Freezer: Freezing is not recommended due to the texture of the fresh ingredients, especially the greens and mango.
Reheating: If you have leftover chicken, reheat it gently in a pan over low heat until warmed through, then assemble with fresh greens for a light meal.

Chinois Chicken Salad Recipe FAQs

Which ingredients should I use for the freshest Chinois Salad?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and texture in your Chinois Salad, always opt for fresh, crisp greens like napa cabbage and mixed greens. Look for ripe mangoes that yield slightly to pressure but are not overly soft. If using carrots, choose ones that are firm and bright orange. Fresh and vibrant ingredients elevate the dish remarkably!

What is the best way to store leftover Chinois Salad?
Very simply! Store leftover Chinois Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s best to keep the dressing separate to prevent the greens from wilting. Just add the dressing right before you enjoy your salad again, keeping that crunch intact!

Can I freeze Chinois Salad?
Unfortunately, freezing Chinois Salad isn’t recommended. The fresh ingredients, especially the greens and mango, do not thaw well and can become mushy. Instead, consider freezing leftover cooked chicken if you have any—defrost it for a future salad and pair it with fresh greens when you’re ready to eat.

What if my dressing is too thick?
No worries! If your dressing turns out thicker than you’d like, simply add a teaspoon of warm water or more rice wine vinegar, blending again until you reach your desired consistency. Remember, the dressing should be creamy but pourable, enhancing your Chinois Salad without overwhelming it.

Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Definitely! If anyone at your table has gluten sensitivities, ensure you use tamari instead of soy sauce. For egg allergies, you can substitute the egg yolk with mayonnaise, providing the same creamy consistency. If you’re catering to vegetarians, ditch the chicken and swap in grilled tofu or tempeh—you’re sure to create a fantastic meat-free Chinois Salad!

How can I make my salad more visually appealing?
Creating a stunning presentation is easy! When plating your salad, consider stacking the ingredients to form a dome or cone shape. This not only showcases the vibrant colors of your Chinois Salad but makes for an inviting dish that’s perfect for impressing family and friends. Don’t forget to sprinkle additional sesame seeds on top for that finishing touch!