Chopped Chinese Chicken Salad (gluten-free)

August 21, 2024

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If you’re looking for a healthy and refreshing salad, this gluten-free chopped Chinese chicken salad is it! It is packed with protein and veggies and is so easy to make with quick dressing.

If you know me you know I love a good salad, but my son Brody might be even more obsessed. He is a salad king and gives this his stamp of approval! This chopped Chinese chicken salad has many variations which makes it a perfect family dinner that even the little ones will enjoy. Additional toppings can be easily added or you can choose to omit those that the kiddos don’t enjoy.

This chopped Chinese chicken salad is a step above your regular average salad. The crunch of the romaine, cabbage, and carrots, along with the nuttiness of almonds and sweet oranges blend together perfectly to elevate the chicken.

I love adding fruit to my salads and this incorporates mandarin oranges. My kids love mandarin oranges and they are a great snack. They are small, easy to peel, and pack a mighty flavor. Mandarin oranges are actually in season from November through January. You can use any type of orange for this salad depending on the season and you can even use canned oranges if you have those on hand.

We can’t forget to talk about the chopped Chinese chicken salad dressing either! The coconut aminos add great flavor similar to that of soy sauce but are slightly sweeter. Coconut aminos are actually healthier and gluten free as well. The rice vinegar gives the dressing the acidity and the oil serves to balance all the flavors out. My favorite addition is the ginger because it really gives it the Chinese inspired taste. Ginger is not only a great spice but it also has so many great health benefits.

Let me know how much you enjoy this chopped Chinese chicken salad and if you use any additional creative toppings!

What ingredients you need to make this chopped Chinese chicken salad:

Cooked chicken breasts– cubing these works best. You can use grilled chicken breasts or a rotisserie chicken
Romaine- if you prefer a different type of lettuce, you can sub out, however the romaine is perfect for the crunch in this dish
Red cabbage- you can buy a head of cabbage and chop it or use pre-shredded
Shredded carrots- pre-shredded saves time but again, you can use regular carrots and shred them yourself if you prefer
Sliced almonds- unsalted
Mandarin orange- fresh or canned both work
Green onions- more subtle than a regular onion
Sesame seeds- these are optional as a garnish
Coconut aminos– healthy, gluten free option instead of soy sauce
Rice vinegar- adds tons of flavor!
Toasted sesame oil– for the salad dressing
Garlic- freshly minced
Ginger- shred fresh ginger or use powder

How to make this chopped Chinese chicken salad:

Combine all ingredients for the sesame dressing in a blender and blend all the dressing ingredients until smooth and creamy
In a large mixing bowl, combine all ingredients for the salad, except sesame seeds
Pour the dressing over the salad, and toss together to coat
Sprinkle with sesame seeds before serving

FAQs and tips on making this chopped salad:

Put your own spin on it! There are a ton of other toppings you can add. I’ve made this before with a combination of other ingredients such as fresh cilantro, cucumbers, edamame, bell peppers, cashews, and peanuts.
Can I prepare this ahead of time? Yes, absolutely! I would leave the salad and the dressing separate until you are ready to eat so the veggies stay fresh and firm.
What are the best vegetarian options? Swap out the chicken for tofu!
Help! My kids don’t like salad. You could totally make this chopped chinese chicken salad into a noodle base with the same toppings.
What can I serve with this chopped Chinese chicken salad? I love eating this with Crunchmaster multi-grain rice crackers or you can choose any side that you enjoy!