Description
A flavorful and crunchy Chinese Chicken Salad featuring shredded cooked chicken, fresh lettuce, crispy fried vermicelli rice noodles, toasted almonds, and sesame seeds, all tossed in a tangy, lightly sweet dressing made with vinegar, soy sauce, and oil. This salad is a perfect balance of textures and tastes, completed in just 30 minutes and ideal for a light lunch or dinner.
Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- 2 large chicken breasts, cooked and shredded, about 3 cups (or use a rotisserie from the grocery store)
- 1 medium head of lettuce, chopped or shredded, about 5 cups
- 4 green onions, sliced
- 1/2 cup sliced toasted almonds
- 1/4 cup toasted sesame seeds
- 4 cups fried vermicelli rice noodles (about a 1/4 of an 8 ounce package uncooked)
Dressing Ingredients
- 4 tbsp granulated sugar
- 4 tbsp white vinegar
- 1/2 tsp low sodium soy sauce
- 2 tsp kosher salt
- 1/2 cup avocado or vegetable oil
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
For Frying Noodles
- About 1 1/2 cups avocado or vegetable oil (for frying)
Instructions
- Make Dressing: In a small saucepan, combine sugar, vinegar, soy sauce, and salt. Heat over medium-low heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves completely. Avoid boiling. Remove from heat and pour the mixture into a mason jar. Add oil and black pepper, then set aside to cool completely while preparing other ingredients.
- Fry Rice Noodles: Heat oil in a large deep pan to about 1/2 inch depth over medium-high heat until it is almost smoking. Test if hot enough by dropping a noodle in; it should puff instantly. Fry the vermicelli noodles in small batches, flipping with tongs for 3-4 seconds per side until light and crisp. Transfer fried noodles to paper towel-lined plates to drain excess oil. Allow to cool.
- Assemble the Salad: In a large serving bowl, add chopped lettuce and cooled fried noodles. Gently toss with clean hands or tongs to combine well for easier mixing. Add shredded chicken, toasted almonds, sesame seeds, and sliced green onions. Shake the mason jar well to mix the dressing thoroughly, then pour over the salad. Toss everything together until evenly coated. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
- Frying the vermicelli noodles fresh ensures they are crispy and light, enhancing texture in the salad.
- Using a rotisserie chicken is a convenient shortcut that saves cooking time without sacrificing flavor.
- If you prefer a gluten-free option, ensure the soy sauce used is gluten-free tamari.
- Serve the salad immediately after dressing to maintain the crispness of the noodles.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Chinese
