There are days when I crave something light yet satisfying, especially when the weather warms up and fresh produce is in abundance. This Chicken Cabbage Salad became a go-to dish in my home, transforming ordinary weeknight meals into delightful feasts. The crunch of cabbage mingling with vibrant bell peppers and sweet peas, all kissed with a zingy dressing, creates a celebration of flavors and textures that can brighten any table.
And let’s not forget the star of the dish: tender, juicy chicken perfectly seasoned to enhance those fresh ingredients! It’s amazing how something so colorful and appetizing can come together so effortlessly. With quick pickled onions that add a tangy pop, this salad is not just a meal; it’s an experience. Ideal for meal prep or a casual dinner with friends, it promises to impress while being simple enough for everyday cooking. Join me as we dive into this refreshing recipe that will revive your love for homemade food!
Why is Chicken Cabbage Salad a Must-Try?
Colorful Medley: This salad is a feast for the eyes, showcasing vibrant veggies that add visual appeal alongside health benefits.
Bursting with Flavor: The zesty dressing, combined with juicy chicken and fresh herbs, delivers a satisfying crunch with every bite.
Quick and Easy: Ready in under an hour, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
Versatile Ingredient Swap: Feel free to customize with your favorite proteins or seasonal veggies, making it endlessly adaptable.
Great for Meal Prep: Make it ahead and enjoy delicious portions throughout the week; this salad stays fresh and tasty!
Transform your dining experience and delight your loved ones—your taste buds will thank you! Check out how you can enhance your meals with quick pickled onions for that extra zing.
Chicken Cabbage Salad Ingredients
For the Chicken
• Chicken breast – skinless and boneless ensures a juicy and tender texture in your salad.
• Garlic powder – adds a savory depth to the chicken that’s irresistible.
• Ground ginger – this spice brings warmth and flavor, enhancing the overall experience.
• Red pepper flakes – a little kick; adjust the quantity to match your spice preference.
• Avocado oil – a heart-healthy choice for cooking that adds a mild flavor.
For the Salad
• Green cabbage – the crunchy base adds a satisfying texture, making your salad feel hearty.
• Thai basil – gives a fragrant, slightly sweet touch; regular basil works as a substitute!
• Red bell peppers – add sweetness and vibrant color, making your dish more visually enticing.
• Carrots – shredded for additional crunch and natural sweetness.
• Sugar snap peas – these sweet bites provide a crisp freshness that elevates your salad.
• Red onion – thinly sliced, they add a sharp bite that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of other veggies.
For the Dressing
• Coconut aminos – a soy sauce alternative adding a subtle sweetness and umami.
• Lime juice – brightens up the flavors and balances the richness of the chicken.
• Minced garlic – enhances the dressing with a fresh garlic taste for extra zing.
• Sriracha – for a spicy kick; adjust according to your heat tolerance.
• Fish sauce – a little goes a long way in providing depth and authenticity.
• Rice vinegar – a tangy note that complements the other dressing ingredients beautifully.
• Ground ginger – offers an additional layer of flavor to round out the dressing.
• Salt and pepper – always taste and adjust to perfect the seasoning!
Create a beautiful Chicken Cabbage Salad that will wow your family and friends with every colorful bite!
How to Make Chicken Cabbage Salad
-
Pickle Onions: In a bowl, mix sliced red onion with water, apple cider vinegar, and salt. Let soak for at least 30 minutes for a tangy flavor that brightens the salad.
-
Cook Chicken: Heat avocado oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chicken breasts, seasoning them with garlic powder, ground ginger, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Cook each side for 6-7 minutes until fully cooked. Remove from heat and let cool before slicing.
-
Combine Vegetables: In a large bowl, toss together the thinly sliced green cabbage, chopped Thai basil, julienned red bell peppers, shredded carrots, and sugar snap peas. Feel the freshness!
-
Mix Dressing: In a separate bowl, whisk together coconut aminos, lime juice, minced garlic, sriracha, fish sauce, rice vinegar, ground ginger, salt, and pepper until smooth and well-combined.
-
Toss Salad: Add the sliced chicken to the vegetable mixture and pour the dressing over everything. Gently toss to ensure all ingredients are coated in that zesty goodness.
-
Serve: Top your salad with the quick pickled onions for a burst of flavor, and enjoy the crunch and zing!
Optional: Garnish with additional Thai basil for an extra touch of freshness!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Chicken Cabbage Salad Variations
Feel free to play with this salad and make it your own—endless possibilities await you!
- Nut-Free: Replace cashews with sunflower seeds for a delightful crunch without the nuts.
- Spicy Twist: Add more sriracha or fresh chopped chili peppers for an extra kick that brings heat to every bite.
- Herb Boost: Swap Thai basil for cilantro or mint, adding a unique freshness that elevates the flavors.
- Lean Protein: Use grilled shrimp or tofu instead of chicken for a lighter, vegetarian-friendly version.
- Add Fruits: Toss in diced mango or pineapple for a sweet contrast to the savory elements, creating a tropical vibe.
- Crunchier Cabbage: Incorporate savoy cabbage for a slightly sweeter and softer texture, enriching each mouthful.
- Creamy Dressing: Mix in a dollop of Greek yogurt or tahini to the dressing for creaminess that complements the crunch.
- Grain-Enhanced: Serve it over quinoa or brown rice for a hearty twist, perfect for a filling meal.
Create your unique twist with any of these variations and enjoy the colorful journey of flavors that makes chicken cabbage salad endlessly exciting!
What to Serve with Chicken Cabbage Salad?
Elevate your dining experience by pairing this vibrant dish with complementary sides and drinks that enhance its flavorful charm.
-
Coconut Rice: The subtle sweetness and creaminess of coconut rice balance the salad’s zesty notes, making it a perfect side.
-
Grilled Shrimp Skewers: These add a smoky flavor that mixes well with the fresh crunch of the salad, creating a delightful contrast.
-
Crispy Spring Rolls: With their crunchy exterior and warm filling, spring rolls provide a satisfying texture that beautifully complements the fresh salad.
-
Mango Chutney: A spoonful of sweet and tangy chutney brings a fruity essence that pairs wonderfully with the savory elements of the salad.
-
Chilled Sauvignon Blanc: This crisp wine enhances the salad’s freshness and its zesty dressing, making every bite a refreshing delight.
-
Fruit Sorbet: After a light main course, treat yourself to a refreshing sorbet. Its icy sweetness cleanses the palate beautifully!
-
Roasted Cashews: Sprinkle some roasted cashews on top for an added crunchy element that elevates the dish’s texture and rich nutty flavor.
Expert Tips for Chicken Cabbage Salad
-
Perfectly Pickled Onions: Allow the onions to pickle for at least 30 minutes. The longer they sit, the better the flavor infuses!
-
Juicy Chicken: Avoid overcooking the chicken by using a meat thermometer; it should reach 165°F (75°C) for moist, tender results.
-
Crunchy Veggies: Choose fresh, firm vegetables to ensure your Chicken Cabbage Salad stays crispy and vibrant. Soft vegetables can lead to a soggy salad.
-
Dressing Balance: Taste the dressing before adding it to the salad. Adjust salt and acidity levels to your liking; fresh lime juice enhances the overall flavor!
-
Meal Prep Friendly: Store salad components separately for meal prep to keep everything fresh. Combine them just before serving to maintain crunchiness!
Savor every bite of this Chicken Cabbage Salad with these expert tips!
Make Ahead Options
These Chicken Cabbage Salad preparations are perfect for busy weeknights! You can cook the chicken and slice it up up to 3 days in advance, ensuring it’s ready to toss into your salad. The vegetables, such as cabbage, bell peppers, and carrots, can be chopped and refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 2 days without losing their crunch. To maintain the freshness and vibrant colors, avoid combining the dressing with the salad until just before serving. Simply assemble all components, drizzle on the dressing, and top with quick pickled onions to enjoy a delightful and effortless meal that’s just as delicious as when freshly made!
How to Store and Freeze Chicken Cabbage Salad
Fridge: Store leftover Chicken Cabbage Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the dressing separate until ready to serve for best freshness.
Freezer: It’s best not to freeze this salad, as the texture of the vegetables and herbs may become mushy upon thawing. Instead, enjoy fresh!
Reheating: If you’ve cooked extra chicken, you can reheat it gently in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, then toss it back into your salad for a fresh serving.
Quick Pickled Onions: These can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 weeks, making them a great prep-ahead option to use in various dishes!
Chicken Cabbage Salad Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right cabbage for my salad?
Absolutely! When selecting cabbage, look for a head that feels heavy for its size, with tightly packed leaves that are crisp and vibrant in color. Avoid any heads with dark spots or wilting, as they indicate age. A fresh green cabbage will add both texture and flavor to your Chicken Cabbage Salad.
How should I store leftovers?
Very! Store leftover Chicken Cabbage Salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To keep the salad fresh and crunchy, store the dressing separately and combine just before serving. If you notice any sogginess, give it a good toss; it should still taste great!
Can I freeze Chicken Cabbage Salad?
Unfortunately, it’s best not to freeze this salad as the vegetables and herbs may become mushy once thawed. Instead, I recommend enjoying it fresh! If you have cooked extra chicken, you can freeze it separately and add it to a fresh batch of salad when ready to serve.
What if I have allergies to some of the ingredients?
No worries! To accommodate dietary restrictions, consider substituting ingredients. For example, if you’re allergic to nuts, simply omit the cashews or replace them with sunflower seeds for crunch. Additionally, if you can’t consume soy, coconut aminos are a great alternative to traditional soy sauce!
How long do quick pickled onions last in the fridge?
You’ll love this! Quick pickled onions can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. They’re perfect for adding a tangy crunch to not just this salad but other dishes like tacos, sandwiches, or bowls. Just remember to use a clean utensil when removing portions to maintain their crispness!
What’s the best way to avoid soggy vegetables in my salad?
For sure! To keep your Chicken Cabbage Salad crisp, make sure to choose the freshest vegetables possible. Before assembling the salad, pat your chopped ingredients dry after washing, especially the cabbage and herbs. Assemble the salad just before serving, and consider using ice water to crisp up your greens if needed!
Satisfy Your Cravings with Chicken Cabbage Salad Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a bowl, mix sliced red onion with water, apple cider vinegar, and salt. Let soak for at least 30 minutes.
- Heat avocado oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chicken breasts, seasoning them with garlic powder, ground ginger, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Cook each side for 6-7 minutes until fully cooked. Let cool before slicing.
- In a large bowl, toss together the sliced green cabbage, chopped Thai basil, red bell peppers, shredded carrots, and sugar snap peas.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together coconut aminos, lime juice, minced garlic, sriracha, fish sauce, rice vinegar, ground ginger, salt, and pepper.
- Add the sliced chicken to the vegetable mixture and pour the dressing over everything. Gently toss to ensure all ingredients are coated.
- Top your salad with quick pickled onions and enjoy!