Crunchy Ramen Chicken Salad

The Crunchy Ramen Chicken Salad is a refreshing American-Asian fusion dish that brings together a delightful variety of textures. Featuring crisp shredded cabbage, tender rotisserie chicken, and the signature crunch of crushed instant ramen noodles, this salad is as satisfying as it is vibrant. Drizzled with a sweet and savory homemade sesame dressing, it serves as an excellent quick lunch or a crowd-pleasing addition to any potluck.

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This recipe transforms simple pantry staples and leftover rotisserie chicken into a gourmet-style salad. The dressing, enriched with fresh ginger and garlic, perfectly balances the honey and soy sauce to create a glossy finish that ties all the ingredients together into a cohesive and flavorful meal.

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

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 maintain the best texture, store the salad and dressing separately if you are making it ahead of time. Leftovers will keep in the refrigerator for up to one day, though the noodles will gradually soften. Nutritionally, each serving contains approximately 410 calories and 25g of protein, making it a well-balanced meal.

Varianten und Anpassungen

If you are looking for even more crunch, consider adding sliced radishes or fresh snap peas. You can also customize the nut profile by swapping the sliced almonds for roasted peanuts or sunflower seeds. For a deeper aromatic profile, replace the standard vegetable oil with additional toasted sesame oil in the dressing.

Serviervorschläge

This Crunchy Ramen Chicken Salad is best enjoyed when served immediately to appreciate the contrasting textures. For a sophisticated touch, pair it with a crisp white wine such as a Sauvignon Blanc, which complements the zesty ginger and rice vinegar notes in the dressing.

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Whether you're looking for a quick weekday lunch or a side dish that will impress at your next gathering, this Crunchy Ramen Chicken Salad delivers on both flavor and simplicity. Its vibrant colors and satisfying textures make it a repeat favorite in any kitchen.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

You can prepare all ingredients and dressing separately up to 24 hours in advance. Store the salad components without dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Keep the dressing in a separate jar. Toss everything together just before serving to maintain the crunch.

→ What can I substitute for ramen noodles?

Crumbled rice noodles, wonton strips, or even broken vermicelli work well as alternatives. For a low-carb option, try crushed pork rinds or extra nuts and seeds. The key is maintaining that crispy texture element.

→ Is this salad gluten-free?

The traditional version contains wheat from ramen noodles and soy sauce. To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free rice noodles instead of ramen and substitute tamari or coconut aminos for the soy sauce. All other ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in the refrigerator for up to one day. Keep in mind the ramen noodles will soften as they absorb the dressing. For best results, store undressed portions and add fresh dressing before eating. The texture will be different but still enjoyable.

→ Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Sliced radishes, snap peas, bell peppers, or thinly sliced cucumber add great crunch and color. You could also include edamame for extra protein or mung bean sprouts for traditional Asian salad texture.

→ What protein alternatives work well?

Shredded rotisserie turkey, grilled chicken breast, or even baked tofu make excellent substitutes. For a seafood version, try cooked shrimp or crab. The salad's flavors complement almost any mild protein option.