Crunchy Ramen Chicken Salad

This Crunchy Ramen Chicken Salad is a vibrant American-Asian fusion dish that brings a delightful medley of textures and flavors to your table. Crisp shredded cabbage and carrots meet tender rotisserie chicken, while crushed ramen noodles provide a signature crunch that makes every bite exciting. Tossed in a sweet and zesty sesame dressing, it’s a refreshing meal that is as simple to prepare as it is satisfying to eat.

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Whether you're looking for a swift weekday lunch or a standout side for your next gathering, this salad delivers on every front. The combination of fresh scallions and aromatic ginger in the dressing ensures a bright, savory experience that pairs beautifully with the earthy notes of toasted almonds and sesame seeds.

Ingredients

• 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
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil (or toasted sesame oil)
• 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

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 the dressing is well emulsified.

Step 3

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

Step 4

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

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

For even more texture and a pop of color, consider adding thinly sliced radishes or fresh snap peas to the mix. If you are prepping this ahead of time, keep the crushed ramen noodles and dressing separate until you are ready to eat to maintain that signature crunch.

Varianten und Anpassungen

This recipe is highly adaptable. You can swap out the sliced almonds for roasted peanuts or sunflower seeds if you prefer a different nut profile. For those who enjoy a deeper sesame aroma, prioritize using toasted sesame oil for the entire oil portion of the dressing.

Serviervorschläge

This salad works wonderfully as a standalone main course or as a side dish for grilled proteins. To elevate your meal, pair it with a crisp white wine such as a Sauvignon Blanc, which complements the bright acidity and honey-sweetened dressing perfectly.

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The Crunchy Ramen Chicken Salad is a testament to how simple ingredients can be transformed into a gourmet-style meal with minimal effort. It is a reliable favorite that is sure to become a staple in your recipe rotation for any occasion.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

Prepare all ingredients in advance, but toss with dressing just before serving to maintain the crunch. Leftovers keep for one day, though noodles will soften.

→ What can I substitute for ramen noodles?

Try crispy rice noodles, won ton strips, or even crushed chow mein noodles for similar texture. For gluten-free, use rice vermicelli that's been baked until crispy.

→ Is the dressing adjustable?

Absolutely. Add more honey for sweetness, extra soy sauce for saltiness, or a splash of sriracha for heat. The dressing balances tangy, sweet, and savory flavors.

→ Can I use raw chicken instead of rotisserie?

Yes, grill, bake, or poach chicken breast until cooked through, then shred. Two cups of cooked, shredded chicken works perfectly.

→ How do I keep the almonds crunchy?

Toast the almonds in a dry pan over medium heat for 3-4 minutes until fragrant and golden. Let cool completely before adding to the salad.

→ What other vegetables work well?

Sliced radishes, snap peas, bell peppers, or edamame add great crunch and color. Stick with vegetables that stay crisp when dressed.