Chicken Coleslaw Salad with Ginger Sesame Dressing
Introduction
Are you looking for a refreshing and easy meal? Look no further! This Chicken Coleslaw Salad with Ginger Sesame Dressing is not only delicious but also packed with flavor. It’s a fantastic option for lunch or dinner, and best of all, it comes together in just a few minutes!
Why Make This Recipe
This salad is perfect for busy days when you want to eat something healthy without spending too much time in the kitchen. The combination of savory chicken with crunchy coleslaw and a zesty ginger sesame dressing makes for a delightful meal your family will love. Plus, it’s customizable! Add any veggies you have on hand or adjust the dressing to suit your taste.
How to Make Chicken Coleslaw Salad with Ginger Sesame Dressing
Ingredients:
- 1-1.5 pounds cooked chicken (rotisserie, grilled, or baked), shredded or diced
- 1 (14-16 ounce) bag coleslaw mix (cabbage and carrots)
- 1 red bell pepper, julienned
- 2-3 green onions, thinly sliced
- Optional: edamame or other vegetables like thinly sliced cucumbers
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons honey (or maple syrup)
- 1-2 tablespoons fresh ginger, grated
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Optional: red pepper flakes for a little spice
- Sesame seeds
- Chopped peanuts or cashews (optional)
- Wonton strips (optional)
Directions:
- If you’re not using pre-cooked chicken, cook your chicken breasts or thighs as you like them. Once cooked, shred or dice the chicken.
- In a large bowl, combine the coleslaw mix, red bell pepper, and green onions. Feel free to add any other veggies you want.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, honey, grated ginger, minced garlic, and optional red pepper flakes.
- Pour the ginger sesame dressing over the coleslaw mixture and toss everything together to coat evenly.
- Add the shredded or diced chicken to the salad and gently combine.
- Serve the chicken coleslaw salad in bowls. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and nuts if you’re using them. Add wonton strips just before serving for an extra crunch.
How to Serve Chicken Coleslaw Salad with Ginger Sesame Dressing
Serve this salad cold or at room temperature. It makes a great dish for lunch or a light dinner. You can even pack it for picnics or bring it to gatherings. Just be sure to keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve!
How to Store Chicken Coleslaw Salad with Ginger Sesame Dressing
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge. It’s best eaten within 2 days. If you have leftover dressing, keep it separate in the fridge, and it will last about a week.
Tips to Make Chicken Coleslaw Salad with Ginger Sesame Dressing
- Use rotisserie chicken to save time. It’s ready to go and adds great flavor.
- Feel free to mix in your favorite vegetables for added texture and taste.
- Adjust the sweetness of the dressing by adding more or less honey based on your preference.
Variation
You can make this salad with different proteins too, like shrimp or tofu, for a fun twist.
FAQs
1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the ingredients ahead but keep the dressing separate until just before serving to keep the salad fresh.
2. Is this salad gluten-free?
You can make this salad gluten-free by using tamari instead of regular soy sauce.
3. Can I add more veggies?
Absolutely! You can add cucumbers, shredded carrots, or any other vegetables you enjoy.