Asian Chicken Crunch Salad with Crispy Rice Noodles

Introduction

Experience a symphony of textures and flavors with this vibrant Asian Chicken Crunch Salad – a perfect harmony of tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and golden crispy rice noodles tossed in a tangy-sweet sesame dressing. This isn’t your ordinary salad; it’s an explosion of Asian-inspired flavors and satisfying crunch in every bite, ready in just 20 minutes!

Why This Salad Will Become Your New Favorite

Restaurant-quality flavors at home
Perfect meal-prep option for lunches
Endless crunch from fresh veggies and crispy noodles
Customizable protein – use any cooked chicken

The magic happens when the sweet-savory dressing coats the crisp vegetables and tender chicken, while the fried rice noodles add that irresistible crackle with every forkful.

Ingredients for Authentic Asian Flavors

For the Salad

• 3 cups cooked chicken (shredded or diced)
• 4 cups Napa cabbage (thinly sliced)
• 2 cups purple cabbage (shredded)
• 1 red bell pepper (julienned)
• 1 cup shredded carrots
• ½ English cucumber (thinly sliced)
• ¼ cup cilantro (chopped)
• ¼ cup green onions (sliced)
• 1 cup crispy rice noodles

For the Dressing

• ¼ cup rice vinegar
• 3 tbsp soy sauce
• 2 tbsp honey
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 1 tbsp fresh ginger (grated)
• 1 garlic clove (minced)
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil

Chef’s Tip: Use rotisserie chicken for easiest prep

Step-by-Step Assembly

1. Make the Dressing

1. Whisk all dressing ingredients until emulsified
2. Taste and adjust sweetness/tang as needed

2. Prepare Crispy Noodles

1. Heat 1″ oil in skillet to 350°F
2. Fry rice noodle nests 10-15 seconds until puffed
3. Drain on paper towels, break into pieces

3. Assemble the Salad

1. Combine all vegetables and chicken in large bowl
2. Add dressing and toss gently to coat
3. Top with crispy noodles just before serving

Professional Tips for Best Results

Slice vegetables uniformly for perfect bites
Warm chicken slightly if using leftovers
Adjust spice level with sriracha or chili oil
Keep noodles separate until serving to maintain crunch

Serving Suggestions

Beautiful Presentations:

• Serve in individual bowls with extra noodles on top
• Garnish with sesame seeds and lime wedges
• Add edible flowers for special occasions

Perfect Pairings:

• Vietnamese spring rolls
• Miso soup
• Jasmine iced tea

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overdressing the salad (makes it soggy)
Adding noodles too early (loses crispness)
Using thick soy sauce (overpowers flavors)
Skipping the acid (vinegar balances richness)

Creative Variations

For Different Tastes:

• Vegetarian: Use tofu or edamame
• Spicy lovers: Add sliced Thai chilies
• Extra crunch: Include chopped water chestnuts

FAQs

Q: Can I make this ahead?
A: Prep components separately, assemble before serving.

Q: How long does dressing keep?
A: 1 week refrigerated – shake before using.

Q: Can I use store-bought crispy noodles?
A: Absolutely! Save time with pre-made.

Q: Is there a gluten-free option?
A: Use tamari instead of soy sauce.

Conclusion

This Asian Chicken Crunch Salad with Crispy Rice Noodles delivers all the vibrant flavors of your favorite Asian takeout in one healthy, satisfying bowl. Perfect for quick lunches, light dinners, or potluck contributions that will have everyone asking for the recipe.

Final Chef’s Tip: For extra freshness, add mango or mandarin orange segments! The combination of textures and bright Asian flavors makes this salad anything but ordinary.

Asian Chicken Crunch Salad with Crispy Rice Noodles

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• Author: Lara Smith
• Total Time: 30 mins

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Description

Indulge in the flavors of Asia with this vibrant salad! Tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and crispy rice noodles come together in a delightful combination. Perfect for a light and satisfying meal!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

Salt and pepper to taste

1 tablespoon olive oil

4 cups mixed greens

1 cup shredded red cabbage

1 cup shredded carrots

1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced

1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro

1/4 cup chopped green onions

1/4 cup chopped peanuts

Peanut Dressing:

1/4 cup creamy peanut butter

2 tablespoons soy sauce

2 tablespoons rice vinegar

1 tablespoon honey

1 tablespoon lime juice

1 teaspoon sesame oil

1 teaspoon grated ginger

2–3 tablespoons warm water (to thin the dressing)

Crispy Wonton Strips:

10 wonton wrappers, cut into thin strips

Vegetable oil (for frying)

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Instructions

Cook the chicken: Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Grill or pan-sear until cooked through. Let cool, then slice into strips.

 

Prepare the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, sesame oil, grated ginger, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.

 

Assemble the salad: In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, shredded red cabbage, shredded carrots, red bell pepper, cilantro, and green onions. Add sliced chicken and chopped peanuts.

 

Add crispy rice noodles: Just before serving, sprinkle crispy rice noodles over the salad.

 

Drizzle with dressing: Pour dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.

 

Enjoy this Asian Chicken Crunch Salad with Crispy Rice Noodles for a refreshing and satisfying meal!

 

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Notes

Thai Peanut Chicken Salad with Crispy Wonton Strips is a delightful and nutritious meal that’s perfect for lunch or dinner. The combination of fresh vegetables, tender chicken, and a creamy peanut dressing is enhanced by the crunchy wonton strips, making this salad a winner.