If you’re craving a dish that bursts with bright flavors, irresistible crunch, and wholesome goodness, this Sesame Chicken Cabbage Crunch Salad Recipe is going to be your new favorite. Imagine tender grilled sesame chicken mingling with crisp green and red cabbage, vibrant bell peppers, and the zing of jalapeño, all tossed in a luscious sesame ginger dressing. It’s a dazzling medley that’s as refreshing as it is satisfying, perfect for lunch or dinner when you want something healthy yet packed with personality. Trust me, once you make this salad, it’ll be on repeat in your kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A large white bowl filled with six colorful layers of fresh, chopped vegetables arranged neatly. Starting from the top left and moving clockwise, there is a layer of thinly sliced purple cabbage with a slightly curly texture, next to it is a pile of light green shredded cabbage with soft, thin strips. To the right is a small area of diced green bell peppers, followed by a neat bundle of thin julienned bright orange carrots. Below the carrots is a layer of chopped green onions with white and dark green rings, and in the center of the bowl is a generous mound of finely chopped bright green leafy herbs, likely cilantro. Beside the bowl, on a white marbled surface, are two large metal serving spoons, and a small white jar filled with brown-colored dressing. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering fresh, straightforward ingredients is key to nailing the vibrant taste and crunchy texture of this salad. Each component plays a vital role—whether it’s the cabbage providing that refreshing bite or the nuts adding a toasty crunch that harmonizes perfectly with the sesame chicken.

4 cups shredded green cabbage: The crispy, slightly sweet base that makes each bite lively and fresh.
2 cups shredded red cabbage: Adds a lovely color pop and a bit more crunch to the salad.
1/2 cup diced green onion: Brings mild sharpness and a hint of sweetness.
3/4 cup freshly diced cilantro: Infuses a fresh, herbaceous note that brightens up every forkful.
1 cup shredded carrots: Adds natural sweetness and a wonderful crunch to complement the cabbage.
1 red bell pepper, thinly julienned: Vibrant, sweet, and crunchy, rounding out the veggie mix beautifully.
1 jalapeño, seeded and diced: A little heat that wakes up the flavors without overwhelming them.
Grilled sesame chicken: Marinated to perfection, it’s the protein star that makes this salad truly hearty.
Sesame Ginger Dressing: A luscious blend that ties all ingredients together with tangy, nutty, and savory notes.
1/3 cup toasted sliced almonds: Adds crunch and a buttery flavor that complements the sesame theme.
1/3 cup roasted cashew halves: Offers a deeper roasted flavor and satisfying bite.
Sesame seeds: Sprinkled on top for extra nuttiness and visual appeal.
Extra cilantro and green onion: For garnish and fresh herbal kick.
A few jalapeño slices: Optional, to accentuate the heat and decorate the salad.
Optional crispy wonton strips: For those who crave an additional crunchy, flavorful surprise.

How to Make Sesame Chicken Cabbage Crunch Salad Recipe

Step 1: Marinate and Grill the Chicken

Start by preparing your grilled sesame chicken with your favorite marinade, allowing it to soak up those bold sesame flavors while staying juicy inside. Grilling or baking the chicken to golden perfection locks in that irresistible smoky taste that pairs perfectly with crunchy salad elements.

Step 2: Whip Up the Sesame Ginger Dressing

While the chicken cooks, mix your sesame ginger dressing. This dressing is the soulful glue of the salad, bringing together nutty sesame oil, zingy ginger, a hint of sweetness, and tang that elevates every ingredient it coats.

Step 3: Assemble the Veggie Base

In a large bowl, toss together the shredded green cabbage, red cabbage, diced green onion, cilantro, shredded carrots, julienned red bell pepper, and diced jalapeño. The colors and textures here create a feast for the eyes and palate alike.

Step 4: Toss with Dressing

Pour the freshly made sesame ginger dressing over the veggie mix and toss thoroughly to ensure every crunch is kissed with flavor. Once dressed, cover the bowl and let it sit while you finish cooking the chicken, allowing flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 5: Combine and Garnish

Slice your grilled sesame chicken and lay it atop the dressed salad or gently fold it in, depending on your preference. Finish by garnishing with toasted sliced almonds, roasted cashews, extra cilantro, green onions, a sprinkle of sesame seeds, and a few jalapeño slices for that perfect spicy touch. Don’t forget the crispy wonton strips if you want that extra delightful crunch!

How to Serve Sesame Chicken Cabbage Crunch Salad Recipe

A large white bowl filled with a colorful salad made of shredded green and purple cabbage, thin orange carrot sticks, sliced red bell peppers, and chopped fresh green herbs, all mixed together with a light dressing creating a slightly shiny texture. Two metal spoons rest in the bowl, partially submerged in the salad. Around the bowl, placed on a white marbled surface, are small white bowls holding whole cashews, sliced almonds, and chopped green onions, with a small dish of sesame seeds nearby. A cream-colored jug with a brown sauce is also on the side. A grey cloth is draped near the bottom left corner. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Adding toasted almonds, cashews, and sesame seeds on top brings warmth and crunch while the extra cilantro and jalapeño slices introduce fresh and spicy notes that brighten the whole dish. These finishing touches are what make this salad feel truly special and restaurant-worthy at home.

Side Dishes

This salad shines on its own but pairs beautifully with light sides like steamed jasmine rice, garlic edamame, or crispy spring rolls. These accompaniments balance the meal, turning it into a complete, satisfying experience that your whole family will rave about.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the Sesame Chicken Cabbage Crunch Salad Recipe in crunchy tortilla bowls or lettuce cups. You can also build it into a vibrant wrap or pile it colorful-style atop brown rice bowls for a deliciously different way to enjoy all those enticing flavors and textures.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover salad and grilled chicken separately in airtight containers in the fridge. The veggies stay crisp longer when undressed, so store the dressing separately and toss just before serving to maintain that signature crunch of the Sesame Chicken Cabbage Crunch Salad Recipe.

Freezing

While it’s best to enjoy the fresh vegetables chilled, you can freeze the grilled sesame chicken to extend its shelf life. Freeze it in portions, then thaw and add fresh salad ingredients and dressing when ready to eat for the ultimate freshness.

Reheating

Warm the grilled chicken gently in a skillet or microwave to avoid drying. Avoid reheating the salad itself to preserve the crispness of the cabbage and vegetables—freshness is key for this delightful crunch sensation.

FAQs

Can I use a different protein instead of chicken?

Absolutely! This Sesame Chicken Cabbage Crunch Salad Recipe is super versatile. Try tofu, shrimp, or even chickpeas for a vegetarian twist. Each brings its unique texture while keeping the salad deliciously satisfying.

How spicy is this salad with jalapeño?

The jalapeño adds a mild to medium heat that enhances the flavors without overwhelming the taste buds. You can always adjust the amount or omit it entirely if you prefer a milder salad.

Can I make the dressing ahead of time?

Yes, the sesame ginger dressing stores well in the refrigerator for up to a week. Making it ahead of time lets the flavors deepen, so it’s a great way to speed up your salad prep on busy days.

Are there any gluten-free considerations for this recipe?

Most of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free. Just make sure your soy sauce or any marinades used for the chicken are gluten-free to keep your Sesame Chicken Cabbage Crunch Salad Recipe safe for sensitive diets.

What’s the best way to shred cabbage quickly?

Using a sharp chef’s knife or a mandoline slicer makes shredding cabbage a breeze. If you’re prepping a big batch, kitchen shears also work well. Just remember to rinse and dry the cabbage well for the freshest crunch.

Final Thoughts

This Sesame Chicken Cabbage Crunch Salad Recipe truly is a celebration of fresh textures and bold flavors. It’s easy to customize and impressive to serve, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or casual get-togethers. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll wonder why you hadn’t made it sooner. So, go ahead, take the plunge and make this delightful salad a new staple in your kitchen!