Description
The Asian Sesame Chicken & Cabbage Slaw brings together the best of Asian-inspired flavors, showcasing the earthy goodness of sesame oil, soy sauce, and ginger. Asian slaws like this one are a staple in many cultures across the East, particularly in countries like China, Korea, and Japan. The use of fresh vegetables and a light dressing keeps it feeling fresh while the chicken adds protein to make the dish hearty and filling. Whether served as a main dish or a side, this vibrant slaw has gained popularity in the United States as a healthy, quick, and satisfying option.
Ingredients
For the Slaw
4 cups green cabbage, thinly shredded
1 cup red cabbage, thinly shredded (optional for color)
1 large carrot, julienned or shredded
2 green onions, thinly sliced
½ red bell pepper, thinly sliced
2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
2 tbsp toasted sesame seeds
For the Chicken
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs), cooked and shredded or thinly sliced
1 tbsp sesame oil
1 tbsp soy sauce
1 tsp garlic powder or 1 clove garlic, minced
½ tsp ground ginger
For the Dressing
3 tbsp soy sauce
2 tbsp rice vinegar
1 tbsp sesame oil
1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
1 tsp grated fresh ginger
1 small clove garlic, minced
½ tsp sriracha or chili paste (optional for heat)
Instructions
1. Prepare the chicken
Heat sesame oil in a skillet over medium heat.
Add garlic and ginger, sauté 30 seconds.
Add chicken, season with soy sauce, garlic powder, and ground ginger.
Cook until golden and fully cooked (internal temp 165°F / 74°C).
Let cool slightly, then slice or shred the chicken.
2. Make the slaw
In a large bowl, combine green and red cabbage, carrots, bell pepper, green onions, and cilantro. Toss lightly.
3. Make the dressing
Whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, honey, ginger, garlic, and sriracha (if using) until smooth.
4. Assemble the salad
Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss to coat evenly.
Add the warm chicken on top and toss gently.
Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds before serving.
Notes
A crunchy, flavorful salad that balances tender chicken with crisp cabbage and a nutty sesame dressing. Perfect for a light lunch or as a refreshing side to your favorite Asian-inspired dishes.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad / Main
- Method: Tossing / Pan-Cooking
- Cuisine: Asian / Fusion
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: Moderate
Keywords: Sesame Chicken Salad, Asian Cabbage Slaw, Crunchy Chicken Slaw, Healthy Asian Slaw