If you're looking for a healthy and satisfying lunch option, 1 portion of Chinese Chicken Salad is a great choice. This tasty dish packs a flavorful punch and, best of all, only has 845 calories.

The dish is made up of fresh and colorful vegetables like cabbage, carrots, and water chestnuts, along with tender chicken and flavorful dressing.

In this article, we'll explore the ingredients, preparation time, nutritional information, cooking method, presentation, variations, add-ons, complementary beverages, health benefits, and tips for making and enjoying Chinese Chicken Salad.

Ingredients

To make Chinese Chicken Salad, you'll need the following ingredients:

• 1 boneless, skinless chicken breast
• 3 cups chopped Napa cabbage
• 1/2 cup shredded carrots
• 1/2 cup sliced water chestnuts
• 1/4 cup sliced green onions
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 clove minced garlic
• 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Preparation Time

Preparation time for Chinese Chicken Salad is around 10-15 minutes depending on your experience in preparing the ingredients. The cooking time for the chicken is around 10-12 minutes depending on your preferred level of doneness.

Cooking Method

To prepare the chicken for the salad, season both sides of the chicken breast with salt and pepper. Then, heat a skillet on medium-high heat and add some olive oil to the pan. When the oil is hot, add the chicken breast and cook for 5-6 minutes on each side, or until it's cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and let it cool for a few minutes. Once it's cooled, cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces.

Nutritional Information

One portion of Chinese Chicken Salad contains around 845 calories. It also has 43g of fat, 69g of carbohydrates, and 47g of protein. However, keep in mind that the nutritional information may vary based on the specific ingredients you use and the serving size. While 845 calories may seem like a lot, keep in mind that this dish is packed with nutrients from the fresh vegetables and lean protein. Plus, the dressing is made with healthy ingredients like rice vinegar and sesame oil.

Presentation

To serve Chinese Chicken Salad, start by arranging the cabbage and carrots on a plate or in a bowl. Then, add the sliced water chestnuts and green onions on top. Next, add the chopped cilantro and chicken to the plate. Finally, drizzle the dressing over the top of the salad and serve immediately.

Variations

While traditional Chinese Chicken Salad is made with the ingredients listed above, there are many ways to switch things up and make the dish your own. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

• Swap out the chicken for shrimp or tofu for a vegetarian or pescatarian version of the dish.
• Add some crunch by tossing in some crunchy chow mein noodles or sliced almonds.
• Make it spicy by adding some sliced jalapenos or red pepper flakes to the dressing.
• Switch up the greens by using romaine or iceberg lettuce instead of Napa cabbage.

Add-Ons

Chinese Chicken Salad is a filling and nutritious meal on its own, but you can also add some extra components to make the dish even more satisfying. Here are a few ideas:

• Serve the salad with some warm brown rice or quinoa.
• Add some extra protein by topping the salad with a boiled egg or some edamame.
• Make it a wrap by wrapping the salad ingredients in a large lettuce leaf or tortilla.
• Pair it with a cup of soup, like hot and sour soup or wonton soup.

Complementary Beverages

Since Chinese Chicken Salad is a light and refreshing meal, it pairs well with a variety of beverages. Here are a few options to consider:

• A refreshing iced tea, like green tea or orange pekoe tea.
• A light and crisp white wine, such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc.
• A fruity and bubbly cocktail, like a Bellini or Mimosa.
• A cold beer, like a light lager or pilsner.

Health Benefits

Chinese Chicken Salad is packed with nutrients that can benefit your overall health and well-being. Here are a few of the health benefits of the main ingredients:

• Cabbage: high in antioxidants, vitamin C, and fiber, which can boost immunity and support digestion.
• Carrots: high in beta-carotene, which can boost eye health and skin health.
• Chicken: high in protein, which can help you feel full and satisfied for longer periods of time.
• Sesame Oil: high in antioxidants and healthy fats, which can support heart health and reduce inflammation.

Tips

Here are a few tips to keep in mind when making Chinese Chicken Salad:

• Use fresh and high-quality ingredients for the best flavor and nutritional value.
• Cut the vegetables into bite-sized pieces for easy eating.
• Don't overcook the chicken, as it can become tough and dry.
• Dress the salad just before serving to prevent the vegetables from becoming limp or soggy.