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.

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.

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 wash and slice the napa cabbage, and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Additionally, you can prepare the sesame dressing ahead of time, as it keeps well in the fridge for up to a week—just remember to give it a good shake or whisk before using. To preserve the crunch of the toppings, keep the fried wonton strips and cashews separate until you are ready to serve. When it’s time to enjoy, simply combine everything in a bowl, toss with dressing, and top with your crispy elements for a fresh and delightful Napa Chicken Salad with Sesame Dressing. It’s a fantastic way to save time during busy weeknights!

Napa Chicken Salad with Sesame Dressing Variations

Customize this delightful salad to suit your taste and pantry on hand, unleashing your creativity in the kitchen!

Veggie Boost: Add shredded carrots and purple cabbage for extra crunch and vibrant color.
Protein Swap: Replace rotisserie chicken with grilled shrimp or tofu for a delightful vegetarian twist.
Citrus Zing: Incorporate mandarin segments or a splash of fresh orange juice in the dressing for bright, fruity notes. This can enhance the overall flavor experience.
Nut Alternatives: Use slivered almonds or sunflower seeds instead of cashews for a different crunch, especially if you’re looking to try something new.
Spicy Kick: Toss in a few slices of fresh jalapeño or a drizzle of Sriracha in the dressing for those who enjoy heat.
Creamy Add-ins: Cubed avocado brings a lovely creaminess that complements the crunch of the salad. Add it in just before serving to keep it fresh.
Herb Infusion: Mix in chopped fresh cilantro or mint to add fresh aromas and a burst of flavor; this simple tweak can transport your taste buds.
Crunchy Toppings: Substitute fried wonton strips with crispy fried onions for a different texture and a hint of umami flavor.

Explore more tempting dishes like Asian Chicken Meatballs or a refreshing Chef Salad Bright to inspire your next meal!

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 with Sesame Dressing Recipe FAQs

What type of napa cabbage should I choose for the salad?
Absolutely! When selecting napa cabbage, look for heads that are firm and free of dark spots or wilting. The leaves should be crisp and vibrant green at the top, transitioning to white towards the base. If napa cabbage isn’t available, savoy or white cabbage can be great substitutes.

How should I store leftover Napa Chicken Salad?
To keep this delightful salad fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. However, to maintain the much-loved crunch of the toppings, it’s best to keep the crispy elements like fried wonton strips and cashews separate until just before serving.

Can I freeze the Napa Chicken Salad?
While it’s best not to freeze the assembled salad due to texture changes in the vegetables, you can freeze cooked rotisserie chicken for up to 2 months. Just make sure it’s tightly wrapped and labeled before placing it in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy the salad again, thaw the chicken overnight in the refrigerator before incorporating it back into your salad mix.

What should I do if the dressing is too sweet or salty?
Don’t worry; adjusting the dressing is simple! If it’s too sweet for your liking, try adding a splash more rice vinegar or a touch of soy sauce to balance the flavors. Conversely, if it’s too salty, incorporate a bit more vegetable oil and a squeeze of lime or lemon juice. Taste as you go to find the perfect harmony!

Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Very! This salad is wonderfully versatile. If you’re catering to gluten-free needs, opt for gluten-free soy sauce. For allergies, double-check the labels on any pre-made wonton strips or toppings to ensure they’re allergen-free. I often recommend adding more protein, like edamame, for a tasty nutritional boost while keeping in mind any dietary restrictions.

Can I meal prep the Napa Chicken Salad?
Definitely! This salad is meal prep-friendly. You can prepare all the components, including washing and slicing the napa cabbage, cooking or shredding the chicken, and making the dressing in advance. Just store everything separately in airtight containers to keep the ingredients fresh and crisp. Assemble them when you’re ready to enjoy a delicious lunch or dinner throughout the week!