Korean Chicken Salad (Dak Gaejang-Inspired Salad)
This Refreshing Korean Chicken Salad is a light, flavorful dish featuring shredded chicken, crisp vegetables, and a tangy, spicy-sweet gochujang dressing. Inspired by Korean flavors, this salad is packed with protein and crunch, making it perfect for a healthy meal or side dish.
Prep Time :
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes (if cooking chicken)
Total Time: 30 minutes
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken)
4 cups water (for boiling)
2 cloves garlic, smashed
1-inch piece ginger, sliced
½ teaspoon salt
For the Salad:
2 cups napa cabbage, thinly sliced
1 cup cucumber, julienned
1 cup shredded carrots
½ cup red bell pepper, thinly sliced
2 green onions, sliced
¼ cup fresh cilantro (optional)
1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
For the Dressing:
2 tablespoons gochujang (Korean red chili paste)
1 tablespoon soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 tablespoon honey (or maple syrup for vegan option)
1 teaspoon sesame oil
1 teaspoon grated ginger
1 teaspoon minced garlic
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon water (to thin, if needed)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook & Shred the Chicken
1. Bring 4 cups of water to a boil with garlic, ginger, and salt.
2. Add chicken breasts and simmer for 12-15 minutes until fully cooked (internal temp: 165°F).
3. Remove chicken, let cool slightly, and shred using two forks.
Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables
1. While the chicken is cooking, thinly slice the cabbage, julienne the cucumber and carrots, and slice the red bell pepper and green onions.
Step 3: Make the Dressing
1. In a small bowl, whisk together gochujang, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, sesame oil, ginger, garlic, black pepper, and water if needed to thin the dressing.
Step 4: Assemble the Salad
1. In a large bowl, combine shredded chicken, cabbage, cucumber, carrots, red bell pepper, and green onions.
2. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss well to coat.
3. Garnish with sesame seeds and cilantro.
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy!
Serve immediately as a light main dish or side. It pairs well with steamed rice or lettuce wraps.
Nutritional Information
Calories: ~280
Protein: ~30g
Carbohydrates: ~18g
Fiber: ~4g
Sugar: ~8g
Fat: ~10g
Saturated Fat: ~1.5g
Sodium: ~500mg
Nutritional values may vary based on ingredient brands and portion sizes.
Recipe Notes & Variations
Make It Heartier: Serve with steamed rice, quinoa, or noodles.
Vegetarian Option: Swap chicken for tofu or tempeh.
Extra Crunch: Add chopped roasted peanuts or crispy fried onions.
Spicier Version: Increase gochujang or add red pepper flakes.
Meal Prep Friendly: Store dressing separately and mix just before serving for the best texture.
This Refreshing Korean Chicken Salad is packed with vibrant flavors and a perfect balance of spice, sweetness, and freshness. Let me know if you’d like any modifications!