Crunchy Ramen Chicken Salad (Print)

Refreshing salad combining shredded cabbage, tender chicken, and crispy ramen noodles tossed in a sweet sesame dressing.

# What You Need:

→ Salad

01 - 4 cups shredded green cabbage
02 - 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken, skin removed
03 - 1 cup shredded carrots
04 - 3 scallions, thinly sliced
05 - 1/2 cup sliced almonds, toasted
06 - 1 (3-oz) package instant ramen noodles, chicken-flavored, noodles only, crushed
07 - 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves, optional
08 - 1 tablespoon sesame seeds, toasted

→ Dressing

09 - 1/4 cup vegetable oil or toasted sesame oil
10 - 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
11 - 2 tablespoons honey
12 - 1 tablespoon soy sauce
13 - 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
14 - 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
15 - 1 garlic clove, minced
16 - 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
17 - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

# Steps:

01 - In a large mixing bowl, combine shredded cabbage, rotisserie chicken, carrots, scallions, toasted almonds, crushed ramen noodles, cilantro if using, and sesame seeds
02 - In a separate small bowl or jar, whisk together vegetable oil, rice vinegar, honey, soy sauce, toasted sesame oil, ginger, garlic, salt, and pepper until well emulsified
03 - Pour dressing over salad ingredients and toss thoroughly to combine, ensuring all components are evenly coated
04 - Serve immediately for maximum crunch, or allow to rest for 10 minutes if softer noodles are preferred

# Top Tips:

01 -
  • The crunch-to-flavor ratio is absolutely addictive in the best way
  • It comes together in 20 minutes but tastes like you put in real effort
  • Works for everything from weekday lunches to impressing your in-laws
02 -
  • The noodles will get soggy if this sits too long, so dress it right before serving or keep the dressing separate
  • Rotisserie chickens vary wildly in saltiness, taste before adding more salt to the dressing
  • Leftovers are still edible the next day but expect softer texture, still delicious though
03 -
  • Toast your almonds and sesame seeds while you prep everything else, the smell alone is worth it
  • Use a jar for the dressing and shake it vigorously instead of whisking, emulsifies faster
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