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+ servings

Crunchy California Chinese Chicken Salad with Ramen Noodles

A refreshing twist on classic chicken salad, this crunchy Chinese chicken salad with ramen noodles is perfect for barbecues, potlucks, and quick dinners.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Servings: 1
Course: Chicken, Lunch, Quick Meals, Salad
Cuisine: American, Asian, Chinese
Calories: 432

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken Salad
  • 2 1/2 to 3 cups cooked chopped chicken (rotisserie works great)
  • 2 (16 oz each) bags shredded cabbage and carrot coleslaw mix
  • 1 bunch green onions, roughly chopped or thinly sliced
  • 1 (3.5 oz) package sliced almonds California-grown preferred
  • 3 tablespoons sunflower seeds
  • 2 (3 oz each) packages ramen noodles, any flavor (discard seasoning packets)
For the Asian Vinaigrette
  • 3/4 cup canola oil
  • 4 1/2 tablespoons rice wine vinegar
  • 4 1/2 tablespoons sugar
  • 2 teaspoons salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil

Method
 

Make the Asian Vinaigrette
  1. In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the canola oil, rice wine vinegar, sugar, salt, pepper, and sesame oil until the sugar dissolves. Set aside.
Assemble the Salad
  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the coleslaw mix, green onions, chopped chicken, and sunflower seeds. Toss to mix.
  2. Break the ramen noodle blocks into small chunks and add them to the bowl. Toss until evenly distributed.
  3. Pour the prepared vinaigrette over the salad and stir well to coat everything evenly.
  4. Serve immediately, or chill for 20 minutes before serving for a cooler, slightly softer texture.

Nutrition

Calories: 432kcalCarbohydrates: 22gProtein: 24gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 55mgSodium: 720mgFiber: 4gSugar: 10g

Notes

For extra crunch, toast the sliced almonds in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes before adding. You can substitute the chicken with leftover turkey or canned chicken in a pinch. This salad is best eaten the day it's made, as the ramen noodles will soften over time. If making ahead, keep the dressing separate and add just before serving. Add shredded carrots or diced red bell pepper for more color and nutrition. For a lighter dressing, reduce the oil to 1/2 cup and add 1/4 cup of low-sodium soy sauce.

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