If you’re craving a salad that’s bursting with crunch, vibrant colors, and a flavor punch that keeps you coming back for more, this Chopped Chicken Salad with Sesame Dressing Recipe is going to become your new favorite. It’s a lively combination of crisp Romaine and cabbage, sweet mandarin oranges, tender shredded chicken, and that irresistible crispy crunch from wonton strips, all brought together with a nutty, tangy sesame dressing. Whether you’re making a quick lunch or a light dinner, this salad feels fresh, satisfying, and just plain fun to eat.

Ingredients You'll Need

The image shows many small bowls and plates of colorful food items laid out on a white marbled surface. In the center is one bowl filled with shredded pale beige chicken. Surrounding it are bowls with different ingredients: bright green chopped lettuce on the top right, thin orange carrot strips on the middle right, thin purple cabbage strips on the bottom left, and a large bowl of bright green edamame beans on the middle left. There are also smaller bowls with mandarin orange segments, sliced almond nuts, chopped green onion, soy sauce in a tiny pitcher, clear liquid in a small glass bowl, chili oil in a glass bowl, brown sugar in a small dish, salt and pepper in another small dish, freshly minced garlic in a small white dish, and crispy thin brown noodles in a white bowl. The bowls are white or light-colored, except a few wooden bowls holding the almonds, green onion, and lettuce. The lighting is natural and soft, creating a fresh and clean look photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Every ingredient here is simple but thoughtfully chosen to create a perfect symphony of textures and flavors. Each element—from the crunchy veggies to the toasted almonds—plays a starring role, making this salad as delightful to look at as it is to taste.

2 cups shredded romaine lettuce: Provides a crisp and refreshing green base for the salad.

2 cups shredded Napa cabbage: Adds a slightly sweet crunch that complements the romaine beautifully.
2 cups shredded red cabbage: Brings vibrant color and a hint of earthiness to the mix.
2 large carrots, julienned: Contributes a natural sweetness and bright orange hue; pre-shredded works well too.

1 cup shelled edamame: Offers a tender bite and a boost of protein for extra heartiness.
3 cups shredded chicken (~1 ½ lbs.): The protein powerhouse that makes this salad filling and satisfying.
3.5 oz. bag crunchy wonton strips or crunchy chow mein noodles: Adds irresistible crunch and a touch of Asian-inspired flair.

1 cup mandarin orange slices, drained: Infuses juicy bursts of sweetness that balance the savory flavors.
1 bunch scallions, chopped (~½ cup): Provides a mild oniony bite and fresh green color.
½ cup sliced almonds: Toasted for nutty crunch and a little extra texture.

¼ cup grapeseed oil: A neutral oil that lets the other dressing flavors shine.
2 Tbsp. sesame oil: Gives the dressing its signature toasted sesame richness.
2 Tbsp. rice wine vinegar: Adds a bright tang that lifts all the flavors.

2 Tbsp. soy sauce: Brings savory depth and umami to the dressing.
1 Tbsp. brown sugar: Balances acidity with a gentle sweetness.
1 tsp. ginger, minced: Adds warmth and zing to the dressing.

1 tsp. garlic, minced or pressed: Provides aromatic depth and subtle heat.
1 tsp. chili garlic sauce: Offers a mild spicy kick to keep things exciting.
¼ tsp. salt & pepper, or to taste: Essential seasoning to tie everything together.

How to Make Chopped Chicken Salad with Sesame Dressing Recipe

Step 1: Combine the Fresh Veggies and Chicken

Grab a large salad bowl and toss together the shredded romaine, Napa cabbage, red cabbage, julienned carrots, shelled edamame, and shredded chicken. This mix is where the salad’s refreshing and satisfying crunch begins to build, creating the perfect foundation that’s both colorful and nutritious.

Step 2: Add the Crunch and Sweetness

Gently fold in the crunchy wonton strips, mandarin orange slices, chopped scallions, and sliced almonds. These ingredients add layers of texture and bursts of sweetness that make every bite exciting. Be careful not to overmix so the wontons stay delightfully crisp.

Step 3: Whisk Together the Sesame Dressing

In a separate bowl or a mason jar, whisk the grapeseed oil, sesame oil, rice wine vinegar, soy sauce, brown sugar, minced ginger, garlic, chili garlic sauce, and salt and pepper until well combined. This dressing is the heart of the salad, with its perfect balance of nutty, tangy, sweet, and spicy flavors that bring all the ingredients together in harmony.

Step 4: Toss the Salad with Dressing and Serve

Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently until everything is evenly coated. The vibrant veggies and tender chicken soak up the luscious dressing, creating an irresistible mix. Now it’s time to dig in and enjoy this dazzling dish!

How to Serve Chopped Chicken Salad with Sesame Dressing Recipe

A large white plate holds a fresh salad with several layers starting from shredded green lettuce and purple cabbage at the base. Thin orange carrot strips and sliced green scallions are mixed evenly through the salad. Bright orange mandarin slices are spread on top, adding vibrant spots of color. Sliced almonds add texture and a light tan shade scattered over the salad. A woman's hand is seen pouring a dark brown dressing from a clear glass bottle right onto the salad, creating a shiny drizzle over one bright mandarin slice. The plate sits on a white marbled surface with a soft purple cloth underneath. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Sprinkle extra sliced almonds or additional scallions on top for a beautiful finish and an added crunch. A few toasted sesame seeds or a drizzle of extra sesame oil can also brighten the presentation and boost that signature nutty aroma.

Side Dishes

This salad pairs wonderfully with light sides like steamed jasmine rice, a bowl of miso soup, or simple garlic edamame. If you want to keep things fresh and healthy, try serving it alongside grilled vegetables or a light citrus fruit salad.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve this salad in individual clear jars for a grab-and-go lunch, layering the dressing on the bottom and salad on top until ready to mix. Alternatively, let guests build their own salad bowls with separate components arranged on a platter for a fun, interactive meal experience.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover salad and dressing separate for best texture the next day. Store the vegetables and chicken in an airtight container in the fridge and hold the dressing in a jar to mix fresh before serving again.

Freezing

Because of the fresh vegetables and wonton strips, freezing this salad isn’t recommended—it will lose its crispness and become watery upon thawing. Instead, enjoy it fresh or store refrigerated for up to two days.

Reheating

Since this is a cold salad, it is best served chilled and not reheated. If you want to warm the chicken before mixing, do so separately and then allow it to cool slightly before adding to the salad to maintain freshness.

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?

Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken works perfectly here and saves you time without sacrificing flavor. Just be sure to shred it into bite-sized pieces for easy mixing.

What can I substitute for wonton strips?

If you don’t have wonton strips, crunchy chow mein noodles or even toasted pita chips can provide a similar satisfying crunch in your salad.

Is this salad gluten-free?

The salad itself can be gluten-free if you choose gluten-free soy sauce and skip the wonton strips or swap them for a gluten-free alternative.

Can I make the dressing ahead of time?

Yes! The sesame dressing actually tastes better if it sits for a few hours to let the flavors meld, so feel free to prepare it a day ahead and store it in the fridge.

How spicy is this salad?

It has a gentle kick from the chili garlic sauce, which adds just enough heat to keep the flavor exciting without overwhelming the other ingredients. You can always adjust this up or down based on your spice preference.

Final Thoughts

This Chopped Chicken Salad with Sesame Dressing Recipe is such a joy to make and enjoy, whether you’re aiming for a quick weekday meal or a colorful crowd-pleaser. Its delightful crunch, bright veggies, and deeply flavorful dressing make every bite feel fresh and satisfying. I can’t wait for you to try it and see how easily it becomes a staple in your recipe rotation—trust me, it’ll quickly become one of your favorite go-to salads!

Chopped Chicken Salad with Sesame Dressing Recipe

Ingredients You'll Need

How to Make Chopped Chicken Salad with Sesame Dressing Recipe