As the sunlight dances through my kitchen window, I’m hit by the refreshing scent of crisp napa cabbage mingling with a rich, nutty sesame dressing. This isn’t just any salad; it’s a Napa Chicken Salad with Sesame Dressing that brings the vibrant flavors of Asia right to my table. Perfect for those hectic weeknights, this dish is not only quick and easy to whip up, but it also shines as a delightful meal prep option throughout the week. Featuring succulent rotisserie chicken, crunchy cashews, and the satisfying texture of fried wonton strips, each bite offers a joyride of flavor that will elevate your dinner game. Ready to dive into a salad that dazzles as much as it delights? Let’s get started!

Why is This Salad a Must-Try?

Fresh Ingredients: Crisp napa cabbage and juicy rotisserie chicken create an invigorating base that’s both light and satisfying.
Flavor Harmony: The nutty sesame dressing brings a rich depth that ties all the elements together effortlessly.
Meal Prep Friendly: Prep it ahead of time for easy lunches; the flavor actually gets better as it sits!
Crispy Crunch: With fried wonton strips and cashews, each bite is a delightful texture experience.
Versatile Variations: Make it your own by swapping in shrimp or tofu, or add vibrant colors with shredded carrots! Explore the delicious possibilities with Asian Chicken Meatballs or try the fresh flavors of Chef Salad Bright.

Napa Chicken Salad Ingredients

• For the dressing and salad preparations, gather fresh and delightful ingredients.

For the Salad

Napa Cabbage – Freshness and crunch; if you can’t find napa, savoy or white cabbage works just as well.
Rotisserie Chicken – A convenient protein source; sub with cooked chicken breast or shrimp for a change.
Crunchy Toppings – Fried wonton strips, cashews, or crispy ramen add delightful texture; feel free to mix and match based on your pantry.

For the Dressing

Sesame Oil – Adds distinct richness and flavor; adjust the quantity according to your taste.
Soy Sauce – Provides umami depth; opt for low-sodium if keeping an eye on salt intake.
Rice Vinegar – Balances flavors with acidity; white vinegar is a decent substitute.
Maple Syrup (or Sugar) – Sweetens the dressing; honey or monk fruit sweetener can lower the sugar content.
Vegetable Oil – Acts as a base for the dressing; consider using avocado oil for extra flavor.

Optional Add-ins

Edamame – A great source of extra protein; toss in for an added nutrient boost.
Avocado – It brings creaminess and healthy fats; try adding it right before serving to enhance texture.

Feel the thrill of making this vibrant Napa Chicken Salad with Sesame Dressing as you prepare these invigorating ingredients!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Napa Chicken Salad with Sesame Dressing

Step 1: Prepare the Napa Cabbage
Begin by washing half a head of napa cabbage under running water to remove any grit. Slice it thinly, ensuring you include a mix of the tender green and firm white parts, which will enhance the salad’s texture. Aim for uniform cuts, and place the shredded cabbage in a large serving bowl for easy mixing later.

Step 2: Make the Dressing
In a medium bowl, combine 3 tablespoons of sesame oil, 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, 2 tablespoons of rice vinegar, 1 tablespoon of maple syrup, and 3 tablespoons of vegetable oil. Whisk these ingredients together vigorously for about 30 seconds until the mixture is well emulsified and smooth. This rich dressing is the key to your flavorful Napa Chicken Salad with Sesame Dressing.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad
With the cabbage ready, add 2 cups of shredded rotisserie chicken to the bowl, followed by half of your desired crunchy toppings—fried wonton strips and cashews work wonderfully. Gently toss the ingredients together using tongs or salad utensils to ensure even distribution while maintaining the shape of the cabbage and the chicken.

Step 4: Toss with Dressing
Carefully drizzle the freshly whisked dressing over the assembled salad. Using your tongs, toss everything together thoroughly for about 1-2 minutes, ensuring the napa cabbage and chicken are evenly coated. The vibrant salad should look glossy and inviting, signaling it’s ready for the finishing touches.

Step 5: Add Crunch
Just before serving, sprinkle the remaining crispy elements on top, adding the rest of the fried wonton strips and cashews. This final step will ensure they maintain their texture, providing a delightful crunch to every bite of your Napa Chicken Salad with Sesame Dressing. Serve immediately for the best flavor and freshness.

What to Serve with Napa Chicken Salad with Sesame Dressing

The refreshing crunch of this salad is a perfect base to create a delightful, well-rounded meal that excites the senses.

Creamy Avocado Toast: The richness of avocado complements the salad’s freshness, while the toast adds a satisfying crunch.
Steamed Edamame: Lightly salted, these protein-packed pods offer a delightful addition that enhances the Asian flavors of the salad.
Grilled Shrimp Skewers: Drizzled with a hint of sesame, the tender shrimp provide a succulent contrast to the crisp salad.
Coconut Rice: This subtly sweet rice dish pairs perfectly, enhancing the salad with a creamy texture and a tropical nuance.
Crispy Vegetable Spring Rolls: Their crispy exterior and fresh filling harmonize with the salad, making for an exciting mix of textures.

For a drink, consider serving chilled green tea. Its earthy notes cleanse the palate and resonate beautifully with the flavors of the Napa Chicken Salad with Sesame Dressing. Add a light fruit sorbet for a refreshing dessert, rounding out a meal that’s as colorful as it is delicious!

Make Ahead Options

These Napa Chicken Salad with Sesame Dressing components are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the napa cabbage and rotisserie chicken up to 3 days in advance. Simply wash and slice the cabbage, storing it in an airtight container to keep its crunch, while shredding the chicken for easy assembly later. The dressing can also be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 1 week; just mix everything well before adding it to the salad. When you’re ready to serve, simply combine the ingredients, toss with the dressing, and top with the crunchy elements. This way, you’ll enjoy a fresh and flavorful salad with minimal effort, perfect for busy weeknights!

How to Store and Freeze Napa Chicken Salad

Fridge: Store the assembled Napa Chicken Salad in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To keep the crunch, add crispy toppings just before serving.

Dressing: Store the dressing separately in the refrigerator for up to a week. This keeps it fresh and allows you to control its flavor just before tossing it into the salad.

Freezer: While it’s best to avoid freezing the assembled salad due to texture changes, you can freeze the cooked rotisserie chicken for up to 2 months. Thaw it in the fridge before adding to the salad.

Reheating: If you have leftover chicken, reheat it gently in the microwave or on the stovetop before mixing it into your fresh salad ingredients.

Expert Tips for Napa Chicken Salad

Uniform Cuts: When slicing napa cabbage, aim for even cuts to ensure consistent texture throughout the salad. It’s essential for an enjoyable crunch!
Dressing Storage: Make the dressing in advance and store it separately in the refrigerator for up to a week. This keeps the Napa Chicken Salad with Sesame Dressing fresh and flavorful.
Crispy Additions: For the best texture, fry wonton strips until golden and crispy right before serving. Store them separately to maintain their crunch.
Taste Balance: Adjust the sweetness of the dressing by starting with less maple syrup and gradually adding more based on your preference.
Experiment with Proteins: Don’t hesitate to swap out the rotisserie chicken for grilled shrimp or tofu. It keeps the salad versatile and caters to different dietary tastes!

Napa Chicken Salad Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to mix things up with these variations that enhance flavors and cater to your tastes!

Vegetarian Option: Substitute rotisserie chicken with grilled tofu for a plant-based twist that retains protein power.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari to make this salad completely gluten-friendly without sacrificing flavor.
Colorful Crunch: Add a handful of shredded purple cabbage or carrots to brighten your salad and increase its nutritional value.
Citrusy Zing: Toss in mandarin segments or a splash of fresh orange juice for a refreshing burst of citrus paired with the sesame dressing.
Spicy Kick: Drizzle some sriracha or toss in pickled jalapeños to light up the flavor palette and add a delicious heat that contrasts beautifully with the crisp textures.
Herbed Delight: Mix in finely chopped cilantro or green onions for a pop of freshness that complements the Asian-inspired flavors beautifully.
Nutty Flavor: Swap out cashews for toasted peanuts or sesame seeds to create an exciting variation that enhances the nutty notes of the dressing.
Pairing Ideas: Serve alongside dishes like my Chef Salad Bright or even elevate your meal with some Asian Chicken Meatballs for a complete culinary experience.

Your kitchen is your canvas, and your own spin on this salad is the masterpiece waiting to be created!

Napa Chicken Salad with Sesame Dressing Recipe FAQs

What type of napa cabbage should I choose?
Select napa cabbage that feels firm and heavy with crisp, vibrant leaves. Avoid any heads that show dark spots or wilting, as these may indicate spoilage. Fresh napa cabbage adds that refreshing crunch and sweet flavor that makes your Napa Chicken Salad with Sesame Dressing truly delightful.

How should I store leftovers of this salad?
To keep the salad fresh for up to 3 days, it’s best to store the assembled salad components in an airtight container in the refrigerator. However, keep the sesame dressing separate until you are ready to serve, as this will preserve the crunchy texture of the salad.

Can I freeze the Napa Chicken Salad?
While it’s not recommended to freeze the entire salad, you can freeze leftover rotisserie chicken for up to 3 months. To do this, simply place the chicken in a freezer-safe container or bag. When you’re ready to use it, defrost the chicken in the refrigerator overnight before adding it back to your salad.

What should I do if my dressing becomes too thick?
If you find that your sesame dressing is a little too thick, simply whisk in a teaspoon of water or a small amount of rice vinegar until you achieve the desired consistency. This will help to lighten it up without losing flavor, allowing the dressing to coat your Napa Chicken Salad with Sesame Dressing perfectly.

Are there any dietary considerations for this salad?
Absolutely! If you’re catering to gluten-free needs, ensure you use gluten-free soy sauce and verify that all crunchy toppings are also gluten-free. Additionally, feel free to leave out the cashews for those with nut allergies, or substitute them with seeds for a crunchy element.