Crunchy Sesame Ginger Chicken Slaw
Description
Crunchy Sesame Ginger Chicken Slaw is a vibrant, protein-packed salad featuring tender chicken, crisp cabbage, fresh vegetables, and a bold sesame-ginger dressing. It combines sweet, tangy, nutty, and savory flavors with plenty of texture from crunchy vegetables and toasted toppings. This dish is quick, nutritious, and naturally gluten-free adaptable.
Time Required
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 12–15 minutes (if cooking chicken fresh)
Total Time: 30–35 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
For the Chicken
2 boneless skinless chicken breasts (or 2 cups cooked shredded chicken)
1 tablespoon olive oil
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon garlic powder
(Shortcut: use rotisserie chicken or leftover chicken.)
For the Slaw Base
4 cups green cabbage, finely shredded
1 cup purple cabbage, shredded
1 cup carrots, julienned or grated
1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
3 green onions, sliced
½ cup fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
½ cup shelled edamame (optional, extra protein)
Sesame Ginger Dressing
3 tablespoons toasted sesame oil
3 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari)
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
1 clove garlic, minced
1 teaspoon lime juice
½ teaspoon chili flakes or sriracha (optional)
Crunchy Toppings
2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds
½ cup crispy chow mein noodles or crushed roasted peanuts
1 tablespoon sliced almonds (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
Season chicken with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
Cook chicken for 5–7 minutes per side until internal temperature reaches 75°C / 165°F.
Rest 5 minutes, then slice or shred.
(Skip if using pre-cooked chicken.)
Step 2: Prepare the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together:
sesame oil
soy sauce
rice vinegar
honey
ginger
garlic
lime juice
chili flakes (optional)
Taste and adjust sweetness or acidity if needed.
Step 3: Assemble the Slaw
In a large bowl combine:
green cabbage
purple cabbage
carrots
bell pepper
green onions
cilantro
edamame
Add sliced chicken.
Step 4: Toss and Finish
Pour dressing over the mixture.
Toss well until evenly coated.
Top with sesame seeds and crunchy toppings.
Serve immediately or chill 15 minutes for deeper flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. Prepare everything except crunchy toppings and mix just before serving. Keeps well for 2 days refrigerated.
Can I use other proteins?
Yes:
Shrimp
Grilled tofu
Salmon
Turkey
Is this recipe low carb?
Yes — skip chow mein noodles and honey for a lower-carb version.
How do I make it gluten-free?
Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce and avoid chow mein noodles.
Can I make it vegetarian?
Replace chicken with tofu, tempeh, or extra edamame.
How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Add fresh crunch toppings before serving.
Nutritional Information (Approx. Per Serving)
Calories: 360–420 kcal
Protein: 28–32 g
Carbohydrates: 18–24 g
Fat: 18–22 g
Fiber: 4–6 g
Sugar: 8–10 g
Sodium: 600–750 mg