The Sesame Chicken Cabbage Crunch Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish that is perfect for any occasion. Packed with crunchy vegetables, juicy grilled chicken, and a zesty sesame ginger dressing, this salad is both nutritious and delicious. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a colorful addition to your next gathering, this salad will surely impress. Its customizable nature allows you to incorporate your favorite veggies and proteins, making it a versatile choice for lunch or dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: This salad comes together in no time, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of fresh vegetables and sesame ginger dressing creates a taste sensation.
- Customizable: Easily swap ingredients based on what you have on hand or your dietary preferences.
- Healthy Option: Packed with nutrients from the veggies and lean protein from the chicken, it’s a guilt-free meal.
- Great for Meal Prep: Make it ahead of time for easy lunches throughout the week.
Tools and Preparation
Preparing the Sesame Chicken Cabbage Crunch Salad requires minimal tools, making it accessible for everyone. Here’s what you’ll need:
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large bowl
- Whisk
- Grilling pan or baking sheet
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
Importance of Each Tool
- Large bowl: Perfect for combining all the ingredients without making a mess.
- Whisk: Essential for mixing the dressing thoroughly to ensure every bite is flavorful.
- Grilling pan or baking sheet: Helps achieve perfectly cooked chicken with those delicious grill marks.
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- Grilled Sesame Chicken
For the Salad
- 4 cups shredded green cabbage
- 2 cups shredded red cabbage
- 1/2 cup diced green onion
- 3/4 cup freshly diced cilantro
- 1 cup shredded carrots (bagged or cut into matchsticks for excellent crunch!)
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly julienned
- 1 jalapeno, seeded and diced
For the Dressing
- 1 batch Sesame Ginger Dressing
For Serving
- 1/3 cup toasted sliced almonds
- 1/3 cup roasted cashew halves
- Sesame seeds
- Extra cilantro
- Extra green onion
- A few jalapeno slices
- Optional: Crispy wonton strips

How to Make Sesame Chicken Cabbage Crunch Salad
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
- Begin by marinating the chicken using your favorite grilled sesame chicken recipe.
- Allow it to soak up those flavors while you prepare the rest of the salad.
Step 2: Prepare the Dressing
- Make your sesame ginger dressing according to your preferred recipe.
- Set aside once done so it can meld flavors.
Step 3: Assemble the Salad
- In a large bowl, add:
- Shredded green cabbage
- Shredded red cabbage
- Diced green onion
- Freshly diced cilantro
- Shredded carrots
- Julienned red bell pepper
- Diced jalapeno
- Pour the prepared dressing over the salad mix.
- Toss gently to combine and coat all vegetables evenly.
- Cover and let it sit while cooking your marinated chicken.
Step 4: Serve Your Salad
- Transfer the salad mixture onto a large platter.
- Garnish with:
- Toasted sliced almonds
- Roasted cashew halves
- Extra cilantro
- A sprinkle of sesame seeds
- Jalapeno slices
- Additional chopped green onion if desired
- Optionally add crispy wonton strips for an extra crunch.
- Enjoy immediately! This dish serves 4 as a main course or 6 as a side dish.
How to Serve Sesame Chicken Cabbage Crunch Salad
Serving your Sesame Chicken Cabbage Crunch Salad can elevate the dining experience, making it not just a meal but a delightful presentation. Here are some creative ways to serve this vibrant salad.
Family Style
- Serve in a large bowl for everyone to help themselves. This encourages sharing and makes it easy for guests to take as much or as little as they like.
Individual Bowls
- Portion the salad into individual bowls. This is perfect for meal prep or when serving at gatherings, allowing for easy distribution and personal customization with toppings.
As a Wrap
- Use large lettuce leaves like romaine or butter lettuce to create wraps filled with the salad mix. This fun option adds an extra crunch and makes for a portable meal.
Topped on Grains
- Serve the salad over cooked grains like quinoa or brown rice. This adds heartiness to the meal and enhances its nutritional value.
With Extra Protein
- Add grilled shrimp, tofu, or chickpeas on top of the salad for added protein. This makes it even more filling and satisfying.
Garnished with Fresh Herbs
- Top each serving with an extra sprinkle of fresh cilantro or green onions. This not only adds flavor but also enhances visual appeal.
How to Perfect Sesame Chicken Cabbage Crunch Salad
To ensure your Sesame Chicken Cabbage Crunch Salad is nothing short of amazing, keep these tips in mind:
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh veggies give your salad crunch and vibrant flavors. Look for crisp cabbage, bright bell peppers, and fresh herbs.
- Make Your Dressing Ahead: Prepare the sesame ginger dressing in advance and refrigerate it. This allows flavors to meld beautifully before serving.
- Customize Your Proteins: Experiment with different proteins like grilled chicken, tofu, or chickpeas based on your dietary preferences.
- Add Textural Variety: Incorporate nuts or seeds such as almonds or sesame seeds for added crunch that complements the vegetables nicely.
- Chill Before Serving: Allow the assembled salad to chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before serving. This helps enhance flavors.
- Balance Flavors: Taste your salad before serving; if it needs more zing, a splash of lime juice can brighten everything up!

Best Side Dishes for Sesame Chicken Cabbage Crunch Salad
Pairing side dishes with your Sesame Chicken Cabbage Crunch Salad can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options:
- Steamed Edamame: A simple yet nutritious side that adds protein and fiber, enhancing your meal without overpowering it.
- Coconut Rice: The subtle sweetness of coconut rice complements the savory flavors of the salad beautifully while adding creaminess.
- Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness contrasts nicely with the tangy dressing while providing additional nutrients.
- Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup offers comforting flavors that pair well with the freshness of the salad.
- Grilled Corn on the Cob: The smoky sweetness from grilled corn adds a delightful crunch and pairs perfectly with Asian-inspired dishes.
- Spring Rolls: Fresh spring rolls filled with veggies make a light, crunchy companion that echoes the freshness of your main dish.
- Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad dressed lightly in vinegar provides a cooling effect alongside your hearty dish.
- Fruit Skewers: Colorful fruit skewers make for a fun side that adds brightness and natural sweetness to round out your meal nicely.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making your Sesame Chicken Cabbage Crunch Salad, it’s easy to overlook some key details that can affect the dish’s flavor and texture. Here are common mistakes to avoid:
- Not Marinating the Chicken: Failing to marinate the chicken can lead to bland flavors. Always give your chicken enough time in the marinade for a burst of taste.
- Skipping Fresh Herbs: Ignoring fresh herbs like cilantro can reduce the salad’s brightness. Always include them for enhanced flavor.
- Overdressing the Salad: Adding too much dressing can make the salad soggy. Start with a small amount and add more as needed for balance.
- Using Pre-Shredded Vegetables: While convenient, pre-shredded vegetables may lack crunch. Freshly shred your cabbage and carrots for better texture.
- Ignoring Texture Variations: Neglecting to include different textures can make the salad less interesting. Incorporate nuts or crispy wonton strips for added crunch.
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Keep the dressing separate until ready to serve to maintain freshness.
Freezing Sesame Chicken Cabbage Crunch Salad
- This salad is best enjoyed fresh but can be frozen without dressing.
- Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
Reheating Sesame Chicken Cabbage Crunch Salad
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 10 minutes, covered.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power in short intervals, stirring in between until warmed through.
- Stovetop: Sauté on low heat in a non-stick pan until heated, being careful not to overcook.

Frequently Asked Questions
What makes the Sesame Chicken Cabbage Crunch Salad healthy?
This salad is packed with vibrant vegetables and lean protein, making it a nutritious option rich in vitamins and minerals.
Can I customize my Sesame Chicken Cabbage Crunch Salad?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap out vegetables or protein sources based on your preferences or what you have on hand.
How long does this salad last?
The Sesame Chicken Cabbage Crunch Salad stays fresh in the refrigerator for up to three days when stored properly.
Is there a vegan option for this salad?
Yes! You can substitute grilled chicken with tofu or chickpeas for a delicious vegan version of this salad.
Final Thoughts
The Sesame Chicken Cabbage Crunch Salad is not only fresh and flavorful but also incredibly versatile. With options to customize ingredients based on your taste or dietary needs, it’s perfect as a hearty main dish or a light side. Try it today and enjoy a healthy meal that’s simple yet satisfying!

Sesame Chicken Cabbage Crunch Salad
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6
Description
The Sesame Chicken Cabbage Crunch Salad is a delightful fusion of flavors and textures that makes for a vibrant and nutritious meal. This salad combines crispy green and red cabbage, crunchy carrots, and juicy grilled chicken, all tossed in a zesty sesame ginger dressing. Ideal for busy weeknights or as a colorful centerpiece for gatherings, this dish is easily customizable to suit various tastes and dietary preferences. Packed with fresh ingredients, it’s both a healthy option and a satisfying choice for lunch or dinner.
Ingredients
- 4 cups shredded green cabbage
- 2 cups shredded red cabbage
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1 red bell pepper (thinly julienned)
- 1 jalapeno (seeded and diced)
- ½ cup diced green onion
- ¾ cup freshly diced cilantro
- Grilled sesame chicken (prepared separately)
- Sesame ginger dressing
- Toppings: toasted sliced almonds, roasted cashew halves, sesame seeds, extra herbs
Instructions
- Marinate the chicken using your favorite grilled sesame chicken recipe.
- Prepare the sesame ginger dressing and set aside.
- In a large bowl, combine shredded green cabbage, red cabbage, carrots, bell pepper, jalapeno, green onion, and cilantro.
- Pour the dressing over the salad mix and toss to coat evenly.
- Let it sit while you grill the marinated chicken.
- Serve on a platter topped with nuts, extra herbs, sesame seeds, and optional crispy wonton strips.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (250g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 370mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
Keywords: Use fresh vegetables for optimal crunch and flavor. Chill the salad for about 30 minutes before serving to enhance flavors. Customize proteins by adding tofu or chickpeas for a vegetarian twist.
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