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Overhead view of Chinese chicken salad in a wooden bowl with colorful vegetables and crunchy toppings

Chinese Chicken Salad Dressing

This bright, tangy dressing turns simple ingredients into a showstopper salad. Perfect for picnics and parties, it's quick to whisk together and packed with flavor.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Servings: 61 servings (about 1 cup dressing)

Ingredients
  

  • 1/3 cup rice vinegar unseasoned
  • 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce or tamari
  • 2 tablespoons toasted sesame oil
  • 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
  • 1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 teaspoon sriracha or chili garlic sauce optional
  • 1/4 cup neutral oil avocado or grapeseed
  • 4 cups shredded cooked chicken
  • 1 head romaine lettuce chopped
  • 2 cups shredded red cabbage
  • 1 cup shredded carrots
  • 1/2 cup sliced scallions
  • 1/2 cup chopped cilantro
  • 1/2 cup sliced almonds toasted
  • 1 cup crispy wonton strips or chow mein noodles

Method
 

  1. In a medium bowl or jar, combine rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, honey, grated ginger, minced garlic, and sriracha if using. Whisk until honey dissolves.
  2. Slowly drizzle in the neutral oil while whisking continuously to emulsify. Alternatively, shake vigorously in a sealed jar.
  3. Taste and adjust seasoning—add more honey for sweetness, more vinegar for tang, or more sriracha for heat. Set aside.
  4. In a large bowl, combine shredded chicken, romaine, red cabbage, carrots, scallions, and cilantro. Toss gently.
  5. Just before serving, pour dressing over salad and toss to coat evenly. Start with half the dressing and add more as needed.
  6. Top with toasted almonds and crispy wonton strips. Serve immediately.