Crunchy Ramen Chicken Salad

Crunchy Ramen Chicken Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish featuring shredded green cabbage, tender rotisserie chicken, and the nostalgic crunch of instant ramen noodles. Perfect for a quick lunch or a crowd-pleasing potluck dish, this American-Asian Fusion salad is dressed in a sweet sesame vinaigrette that brings all the fresh flavors together.

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This recipe combines simple ingredients like shredded carrots, sliced scallions, and toasted almonds with a flavorful dressing made from ginger, garlic, and rice vinegar. The addition of toasted sesame seeds and optional cilantro adds a fresh, aromatic finish to every bite.

Ingredients

• Salad
• 4 cups shredded green cabbage
• 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken (skin removed)
• 1 cup shredded carrots
• 3 scallions, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup sliced almonds, toasted
• 1 (3-oz) package instant ramen noodles (chicken-flavored), noodles only, crushed
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves (optional)
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds, toasted
• Dressing
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil (or toasted sesame oil for more flavor)
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

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Instructions

Step 1

In a large bowl, combine the shredded cabbage, rotisserie chicken, carrots, scallions, toasted almonds, crushed ramen noodles, cilantro (if using), and sesame seeds.

Step 2

In a separate small bowl or jar, whisk together the vegetable oil, rice vinegar, honey, soy sauce, toasted sesame oil, ginger, garlic, salt, and pepper until well emulsified.

Step 3

Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and toss thoroughly to combine, ensuring everything is well coated.

Step 4

Serve immediately for maximum crunch, or let sit for 10 minutes if you prefer the noodles a bit softer.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

To ensure the best texture, use a large mixing bowl for the salad and a small jar or whisk for the dressing. The recipe yields four servings and can be tailored to your preference: serve it immediately to enjoy the full crunch of the ramen, or wait 10 minutes for a slightly softer noodle texture.

Varianten und Anpassungen

For extra crunch, consider adding sliced radishes or snap peas to the mix. If you do not have almonds on hand, you can easily swap them out for peanuts or sunflower seeds to suit your taste.

Serviervorschläge

This salad provides 410 calories and 25g of protein per serving, making it a satisfying standalone meal. For a complete dining experience, pair this American-Asian Fusion dish with a crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc.

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Whether you are preparing a quick weekday lunch or bringing a dish to a potluck, this Crunchy Ramen Chicken Salad is a refreshing and reliable choice that everyone will enjoy.

Perfect for frying eggs, sautéing vegetables, and simmering small-batch sauces for quick everyday meals.

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Recipe Questions & Answers

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, but keep the dressing separate until serving. Combine ingredients up to 4 hours ahead, then toss with dressing just before eating to maintain the ramen noodles' crunch. Leftovers keep refrigerated for up to one day, though the noodles will soften over time.

→ What can I substitute for rotisserie chicken?

You can use grilled chicken breast, shredded cooked turkey, or substitute with crispy tofu for a vegetarian version. Maintain the same 2-cup measurement for consistent texture and protein content.

→ How do I toast the almonds and sesame seeds?

Heat a dry skillet over medium heat and add almonds or sesame seeds in a single layer. Toast for 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently until fragrant and lightly golden. Watch carefully to prevent burning.

→ Is this dairy-free?

Yes, this salad is completely dairy-free. All ingredients, including the dressing made with vegetable and sesame oils, contain no dairy products. Perfect for dairy-free diets.

→ What wine pairs best with this salad?

A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc complements the sweet sesame dressing and Asian flavors beautifully. The wine's acidity balances the richness of the oil-based dressing.

→ Can I add vegetables to customize this?

Absolutely. Sliced radishes, snap peas, bell peppers, or cucumber add freshness and extra crunch. Keep total vegetable content around 5-6 cups to maintain balanced proportions with the other ingredients.