Crunch is the first thing you notice with this Sesame Chicken Cabbage Crunch Salad. Crisp cabbage, fresh herbs, tender grilled chicken, and a bold sesame ginger dressing come together in a bowl that feels vibrant and satisfying. It’s colorful, layered, and packed with texture in every bite.
This isn’t a delicate side salad. It’s hearty enough to stand on its own and exciting enough to serve to guests.
Sesame Chicken Cabbage Crunch Salad combines shredded green and red cabbage with grilled sesame chicken, fresh vegetables, toasted nuts, and a flavorful dressing. The result feels bright and filling at the same time.
It’s a salad that doesn’t wilt quickly. It holds up beautifully and keeps its crunch, even after being tossed with dressing.
The Story & Why It Works
A Salad That Feels Like a Full Meal
Some salads leave you hungry an hour later. This one doesn’t. Between the grilled sesame chicken, shredded cabbage, almonds, and cashews, it feels substantial without feeling heavy.
The combination reminds me of takeout-style flavors, but fresher and lighter. You still get bold sesame notes and a little heat from jalapeño, but everything tastes clean and balanced.
Great for Gatherings or Meal Prep
Because cabbage stays crisp longer than lettuce, this salad works well for make-ahead meals. Toss it with dressing and let it sit while the chicken cooks. The flavors deepen without losing texture.
It serves 4 as a hearty main dish or 6 as a side dish.
What Makes This Salad Stand Out
Texture in Every Bite
- Shredded green cabbage for crunch
- Shredded red cabbage for color and crispness
- Fresh carrots for sweetness
- Bell pepper for snap
- Jalapeño for gentle heat
- Toasted almonds and cashews for richness
The mix of fresh herbs like cilantro and green onion keeps everything lively.
Bold Sesame Ginger Dressing
The sesame ginger dressing coats the vegetables lightly while adding depth and warmth. It ties together the cabbage, chicken, and toppings in a way that feels cohesive.
How to Make Sesame Chicken Cabbage Crunch Salad
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Marinate the chicken using the grilled sesame chicken recipe. Once marinated, bake or grill the chicken according to the recipe instructions.
Let it rest slightly before slicing or chopping for the salad.
Step 2: Make the Dressing
Prepare one batch of Sesame Ginger Dressing. Set it aside until you’re ready to toss the salad.
Step 3: Assemble the Salad
In a large bowl, combine:
- 4 cups shredded green cabbage
- 2 cups shredded red cabbage
- 1/2 cup diced green onion
- 3/4 cup freshly diced cilantro
- 1 cup shredded carrots (bagged or cut into matchsticks for excellent crunch)
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly julienned
- 1 jalapeno, seeded and diced
Pour the dressing over the vegetables. Toss well so everything is evenly coated.
Cover and set aside while the chicken finishes cooking.
Step 4: Serve
Transfer the salad to a large platter. Top with sliced grilled sesame chicken.
Garnish with:
- 1/3 cup toasted sliced almonds
- 1/3 cup roasted cashew halves
- Sesame seeds
- Extra cilantro
- Extra green onion
- A few jalapeno slices
Optional: Add crispy wonton strips for even more crunch.
Serve and enjoy.
Helpful Tips
Slice Thinly
Thinly shredded cabbage makes a big difference. It creates a lighter texture and allows the dressing to coat evenly.
Add Toppings Just Before Serving
To keep the nuts crunchy, sprinkle them on at the end.
Adjust the Heat
Remove all seeds from the jalapeño for mild heat, or leave a few in if you like it spicier.
Easy Variations
Make It Vegetarian or Vegan
Skip the chicken and replace it with tofu or a can of rinsed and drained chickpeas. The salad still tastes full and satisfying.
Add Extra Crunch
Crispy wonton strips are optional but fun. They add even more texture.
Boost the Greens
If you want extra volume, toss in a handful of shredded kale or spinach.
Storage & Leftovers
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
For best texture, keep the toppings separate if possible and add them just before serving again. The cabbage will stay crisp, and the flavors continue to develop.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. Assemble the salad and dressing ahead, then add the chicken and crunchy toppings right before serving.
Is this spicy?
The jalapeño adds mild heat. You can adjust the amount based on your preference.
Can I use rotisserie chicken instead?
Yes. While grilled sesame chicken adds extra flavor, rotisserie chicken works if you’re short on time.
What makes this salad different from other cabbage salads?
The combination of sesame ginger dressing, grilled chicken, and toasted nuts gives it depth and richness while still feeling fresh.
A Crunchy Bowl You’ll Crave
Sesame Chicken Cabbage Crunch Salad brings together crisp vegetables, tender chicken, and bold sesame flavor in a way that feels balanced and satisfying. It’s colorful, crunchy, and hearty enough to be the main event.
Sometimes a salad can feel like a full, complete meal. This one absolutely does.
Sesame Chicken Cabbage Crunch Salad
Ingredients
Method
- Marinate the chicken using this grilled sesame chicken recipe.
- Make the sesame ginger dressing. Set aside.
- Assemble the salad together: in a large bowl, add the green and red cabbage, green onion, cilantro, carrots, bell pepper and jalapeno. Pour dressing all over the salad and toss to combine and coat all the veggies. Cover and set aside while you bake or grill your chicken according to the recipe.
- Serve the salad: add salad to a large platter. Garnish with toasted sliced almonds, cashews, extra cilantro, a sprinkle of sesame seeds, a few jalapeno slices and some additional chopped green onion, if desired. I also love adding crispy wonton strips but that’s totally optional. Dig in! Serves 4 as a hearty main dish or 6 as a side dish.
Notes
Serving: 1serving (based on 4) | Calories: 594cal | Carbohydrates: 34.9g | Protein: 35.9g | Fat: 36.6g | Saturated Fat: 5.2g | Fiber: 7.1g | Sugar: 19.2g