Share this to:

Introduction

Light, crunchy, flavorful, and perfectly satisfying—Keto-Friendly Chinese Chicken Salad is a refreshing spin on a beloved Asian-inspired dish that fits beautifully into your low-carb lifestyle. Packed with tender shredded chicken, crisp vegetables, and a tangy sesame-ginger dressing, this salad is not only guilt-free but downright addictive. Whether you’re following keto or simply want a healthy, protein-packed meal, this salad is your go-to!

Why Everyone Loves This Dish?

• Low-Carb Goodness: Perfect for those following keto or anyone wanting to eat clean.
• Bold Flavors: The sesame-ginger dressing is zesty, nutty, and full of depth.
• Hearty & Healthy: It’s loaded with lean protein and fiber-rich veggies—filling without being heavy.
• Easy Meal Prep: Make it in advance and enjoy it all week for lunch or dinner.

Origin of Chinese Chicken Salad

Though commonly featured on American menus, Chinese Chicken Salad isn’t traditionally Chinese. It’s a Western creation inspired by Asian flavors—believed to have originated in California during the mid-20th century. Celebrity chefs like Wolfgang Puck helped popularize it by blending ingredients like Napa cabbage, soy sauce, and sesame oil to create something both healthy and satisfying. The keto version stays true to the flavor while ditching the sugar and carbs.

Ingredients

For the Salad:

• 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
• 2 cups shredded Napa cabbage
• 1 cup shredded purple cabbage
• 1 cup shredded carrots
• 1/2 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
• 1/4 cup sliced almonds (toasted)
• 2 tbsp sesame seeds
• 1/2 cucumber, julienned (optional)

For the Keto Sesame-Ginger Dressing:

• 1/4 cup avocado oil or olive oil
• 2 tbsp rice vinegar (no sugar added)
• 1 tbsp soy sauce or coconut aminos
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 1 tbsp fresh grated ginger
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1/2 tsp erythritol or monk fruit (optional for sweetness)
• Salt and pepper to taste

How to Prepare

Step 1: Make the Dressing

In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the sesame oil, avocado oil, rice vinegar, soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and sweetener. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Set aside to allow the flavors to blend.

Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables

Shred the Napa cabbage, purple cabbage, and carrots. Slice the red bell pepper and julienne the cucumber. Chop the green onions.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken and all the veggies. Toss gently.

Step 4: Add Dressing

Drizzle the sesame-ginger dressing over the salad and toss until everything is well coated.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Top with toasted almonds and sesame seeds for extra crunch. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 3 days.

Cooking Tips

• Use Pre-Cooked Chicken: Rotisserie chicken or leftover grilled chicken works great to save time.
• Let It Marinate: If you have time, let the dressed salad sit for 10–15 minutes before serving. The veggies soak up all the flavors!
• Customize It: Add avocado for creaminess, or jalapeño for heat if you love spice.
• Toast Almonds: A quick toast in a dry skillet brings out the nutty flavor—don’t skip this!

Mistakes to Avoid

• Overdressing: Add dressing gradually. Too much can make the veggies soggy.
• Using Sugary Soy Sauce: Be sure to check labels or use coconut aminos to keep it keto.
• Skipping the Crunch: Toasted almonds or sesame seeds add the needed texture contrast. Don’t leave them out!

Serving Tips

• Serve Chilled: Best served cold or at room temperature for maximum crunch and freshness.
• Make It a Meal: Serve on its own or over a bed of cauliflower rice for a more filling dinner.
• Meal Prep Hero: Store individual components separately and assemble just before eating for perfect texture every time.

Health Benefits of Ingredients

• Chicken: High in protein and low in carbs—great for muscle repair and energy.
• Cabbage: Low in calories, high in fiber and antioxidants, especially vitamin C.
• Carrots: Provide beta-carotene, fiber, and a slight sweetness.
• Ginger & Garlic: Natural anti-inflammatories and digestion boosters.
• Almonds: Loaded with healthy fats, fiber, and vitamin E.
• Sesame Oil: Full of healthy fats and adds a delicious nutty aroma.

Interesting Facts

• Chinese Chicken Salad is American: Though it sounds Asian, it’s more Californian than Chinese—an East-meets-West fusion dish.
• Sesame Oil is Key: Used heavily in Asian cooking for its aroma, a few drops can elevate any dish.
• Cabbage is a Super Veggie: It’s incredibly low in carbs and full of gut-friendly fiber, making it perfect for keto diets.

Summarized Recipe

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes (using pre-cooked chicken)
Total Time: 15 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
• 2 cups Napa cabbage, 1 cup purple cabbage
• 1 cup shredded carrots
• 1/2 red bell pepper, 1/2 cucumber
• 1/4 cup green onions
• 1/4 cup almonds, 2 tbsp sesame seeds

Dressing

• 1/4 cup avocado oil
• 2 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tbsp soy sauce/coconut aminos
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 1 tbsp grated ginger, 1 garlic clove
• 1/2 tsp erythritol (optional), salt, pepper

Instructions

1. Make dressing and set aside.
2. Chop vegetables and shred chicken.
3. Toss all salad ingredients together.
4. Add dressing and garnish with almonds and sesame seeds.
5. Serve immediately or chill.

Conclusion

This Delicious Keto-Friendly Chinese Chicken Salad proves that healthy eating doesn’t have to be boring. With vibrant flavors, a satisfying crunch, and an easy prep, it’s ideal for busy weekdays or light weekend meals. Whether you’re keto, low-carb, or just in the mood for something refreshing and delicious—this salad delivers every time. Give it a try, and it just might become your go-to favorite!

Share this to: