Asian Chicken Noodle Salad Recipe

Let's take a culinary trip to Asia with this refreshing and vibrant Asian Chicken Noodle Salad recipe. This salad is a delightful mix of crunchy vegetables, succulent chicken, and ramen noodles all tossed in a savory Asian-inspired dressing. Not only is it delicious, it's also easy and quick to prepare, making it a perfect option for a healthy weekday dinner or a picnic lunch.

Photos of Asian Chicken Noodle Salad Recipe

Most of the ingredients for this recipe are readily available in your local supermarket. However, you may need to visit the international section for items like ramen noodles and rice wine vinegar. Ramen noodles provide a unique crunch and texture to the salad while rice wine vinegar adds a distinct tangy flavor. Also, sesame seeds and peanuts are used for their nutty flavor and crunchy texture.

Essential Ingredients for your Asian Chicken Noodle Salad

Ramen noodle soup mix: These noodles will add a unique crunch to our salad.

Coleslaw blend: This will provide a variety of vegetables for a healthy kick.

Chicken: The main protein source in our salad.

Peanuts: They add a delicious crunchy texture.

Green onions: For a pop of color and taste.

Sugar: To balance the flavors in the dressing.

Soy sauce: Gives an authentic Asian flavor to the dressing.

Sesame seeds: They add a nutty flavor and a nice crunch.

All spice: A little kick of spice.

Rice wine vinegar: It creates a tangy and slightly sweet flavor in the dressing.

Vegetable oil: The base of our dressing.

Oil: Used to sauté our chicken.

One reader, Donn Weller says:

This Asian chicken noodle salad recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are so vibrant and the dressing is simply divine. It's a refreshing and satisfying dish that's perfect for a light lunch or dinner. I love how easy it is to make, and it's become a family favorite in no time. Highly recommended!

Donn Weller

Key Techniques for Mastering Asian Chicken Noodle Salad

How to prepare the dressing: Combine sugar, soy sauce, sesame seeds, allspice, and rice wine vinegar in a glass jar. Shake vigorously for 2 minutes, then add vegetable oil and continue shaking for another 3 minutes until the oils are emulsified. Chill for at least 2 hours before use.

How to break ramen noodles: Gently break the ramen noodles into smaller pieces before adding them to the salad. This will help distribute the noodles evenly throughout the dish.

How to mix the salad: In a large bowl, combine the broken ramen noodles, coleslaw blend, chicken, and peanuts. Mix the ingredients together until well combined.

How to top and serve: Just before serving, pour the chilled dressing over the salad and mix well. Top with sliced green onions for added flavor and color. Enjoy the Asian chicken noodle salad!

How To Make Asian Chicken Noodle Salad

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking:

Chill Time: 2 hours

Total: 2 hours 10 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

3ozramen noodle soup mix
14ozcoleslaw blend
1½cupschicken,cooked and shredded
½cuppeanuts
green onions,optional

For the Dressing:

½cupsugar
¾cupsoy sauce
2tbspsesame seeds
¼tspall spice
¼cuprice wine vinegar
½cupvegetable oil
3tbspoil

Instructions

Mix all dressing ingredients (except oils) to a glass jar. Cover and shake vigorously for 2 minutes until well blended. Add oils and shake for another 3 minutes, or until oils are emulsified into the vinegar. Chill for 2 hours, at least.
Break ramen noodles into smaller pieces and add to a large bowl.
Add cole slaw, chicken and nuts. Mix together.
Top with dressing right before serving and mix well, topping with sliced green onions. Enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 469.76kcal
Fat: 34.56g
Saturated Fat: 4.18g
Trans Fat: 0.17g
Monounsaturated Fat: 19.28g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 9.49g
Carbohydrates: 29.73g
Fiber: 2.53g
Sugar: 19.26g
Protein: 11.70g
Cholesterol: 29.54mg
Sodium: 1821.76mg
Calcium: 62.80mg
Potassium: 326.01mg
Iron: 1.71mg
Vitamin A: 25.52µg
Vitamin C: 7.69mg

Pro Tip for Perfecting Your Asian Chicken Noodle Salad Technique

When preparing the ramen noodles for this Asian Chicken Noodle Salad, it's important to not overcook them. They should be slightly undercooked as they will continue to soften when mixed with the dressing. This will ensure that your noodles maintain a nice texture and don't become mushy in the salad. Additionally, when making the dressing, emulsifying the oils into the vinegar is a crucial step. This process helps to blend the oil and vinegar together so they don't separate, resulting in a smoother, more flavorful dressing.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Salad Recipe

Prep ahead: Chop vegetables and cook the chicken in advance to save time when assembling the salad.

Use pre-shredded coleslaw mix: This will save time on chopping and shredding vegetables.

Multi-task: While the dressing is chilling, you can prepare the other ingredients to maximize efficiency.

Invest in a good quality vegetable chopper: This will significantly reduce the time spent on chopping vegetables.

Organize your workspace: Having all the ingredients and utensils ready and organized can streamline the cooking process.

Cook the chicken in bulk: Prepare extra chicken to use in other recipes throughout the week, saving time on future meal prep.

Utilize leftover chicken: If you have leftover cooked chicken, it can be used in this recipe to save time on cooking and preparation.

Substitute Ingredients For Asian Chicken Noodle Salad Recipe

ramen noodle soup mix - Substitute with soba noodles: Soba noodles are a great substitute for ramen noodles in this recipe, as they provide a similar texture and absorb the flavors of the dressing well.
coleslaw blend - Substitute with shredded cabbage and carrots: Shredded cabbage and carrots can be used as a substitute for coleslaw blend, providing a fresh and crunchy base for the salad.
chicken - Substitute with tofu or tempeh: Tofu or tempeh can be used as a vegetarian substitute for chicken, adding protein and a hearty texture to the salad.
peanuts - Substitute with cashews: Cashews can be used as a substitute for peanuts, providing a similar nutty flavor and crunchy texture to the salad.
green onions - Substitute with chives: Chives can be used as a substitute for green onions, adding a mild onion flavor and a pop of color to the salad.
sugar - Substitute with honey or maple syrup: Honey or maple syrup can be used as a natural substitute for sugar in the dressing, adding sweetness and depth of flavor.
soy sauce - Substitute with tamari: Tamari, a gluten-free soy sauce alternative, can be used as a substitute for soy sauce, providing a similar umami-rich flavor to the dressing.
sesame seeds - Substitute with toasted sunflower seeds: Toasted sunflower seeds can be used as a substitute for sesame seeds, adding a nutty flavor and crunch to the salad.
all spice - Substitute with Chinese five-spice: Chinese five-spice can be used as a substitute for allspice, providing a complex and aromatic blend of flavors to the dressing.
rice wine vinegar - Substitute with apple cider vinegar: Apple cider vinegar can be used as a substitute for rice wine vinegar, adding a tangy and slightly fruity flavor to the dressing.
vegetable oil - Substitute with sesame oil: Sesame oil can be used as a substitute for vegetable oil, adding a rich and nutty flavor to the dressing.
oil - Substitute with chili oil: Chili oil can be used as a substitute for regular oil, adding a spicy kick and depth of flavor to the dressing.

Presentation Tips for a Stunning Asian Chicken Noodle Salad

Elevate the plating: Arrange the salad in a visually appealing manner, ensuring that each component is showcased beautifully on the plate.
Incorporate vibrant colors: Introduce colorful elements such as fresh herbs, vibrant vegetables, and garnishes to create an eye-catching and appetizing presentation.
Focus on precision: Pay attention to the placement of each ingredient, ensuring that they are meticulously arranged to create a visually stunning dish.
Utilize contrasting textures: Incorporate crunchy elements alongside the tender chicken and noodles to add depth and interest to the dish.
Emphasize balance: Ensure that the salad is balanced in terms of flavors, textures, and colors, creating a harmonious and visually striking presentation.
Highlight the dressing: Drizzle the dressing over the salad in an artistic manner, allowing it to enhance the overall presentation and flavor profile of the dish.
Incorporate edible flowers: Introduce edible flowers as a delicate and visually captivating garnish, adding a touch of elegance to the presentation.
Use high-quality serving ware: Select elegant and refined serving ware that complements the dish, enhancing the overall dining experience for the judges.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Asian Chicken Noodle Salad

Food processor: A food processor is a versatile kitchen tool that can be used for chopping, slicing, shredding, and pureeing ingredients. It can be helpful for preparing dressings, marinades, or processing nuts and seeds for the salad.
Mixing bowl: A mixing bowl is essential for combining the salad ingredients and tossing them with the dressing. It should be large enough to accommodate all the components without spilling.
Whisk: A whisk is useful for emulsifying the dressing and ensuring all the ingredients are well combined.
Jar: A glass jar is needed for shaking and storing the dressing. It should have a tight-fitting lid to prevent any leaks while shaking.
Knife: A sharp knife is necessary for slicing the green onions and any other ingredients that may require cutting.
Cutting board: A cutting board provides a stable surface for chopping and slicing ingredients, ensuring safety and preventing damage to countertops.

Storage and Freezing Guidelines for Asian Chicken Noodle Salad

This asian chicken noodle salad is best served fresh, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Keep the dressing separate from the salad ingredients to prevent the noodles and coleslaw blend from becoming soggy.
When ready to serve, toss the salad with the dressing and enjoy.
If you want to prepare the salad in advance, mix the dry ingredients (ramen noodles, coleslaw blend, chicken, and peanuts) and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Prepare the dressing and store it in a separate container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Freezing this salad is not recommended, as the texture of the noodles and vegetables will deteriorate upon thawing.
If you have leftover chicken, you can freeze it separately for up to 2 months and use it in future salads or other dishes.

How To Reheat Asian Chicken Noodle Salad Leftovers

To reheat leftover asian chicken noodle salad, start by separating the noodles, vegetables, and chicken into separate containers. This will prevent the noodles from becoming soggy and the vegetables from wilting further.
For the ramen noodles, heat a small amount of vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the noodles and stir-fry them for 2-3 minutes until they are heated through and slightly crispy. Set aside.
In the same skillet, add a bit more oil and reheat the chicken until it is warmed through and slightly crispy on the edges. This should take about 3-4 minutes.
For the coleslaw blend, you can either enjoy it cold or slightly warmed. If you prefer it warmed, place it in a microwave-safe bowl and heat it for 30-45 seconds, stirring halfway through.
To assemble the reheated salad, place the warmed coleslaw blend in a serving bowl, top with the crispy ramen noodles and heated chicken, and sprinkle with peanuts and sliced green onions.
Drizzle the reserved dressing over the top of the salad just before serving. If the dressing has separated, give it a quick shake in the jar to re-emulsify it.
If you find that the salad is too dry after reheating, you can add a small amount of additional dressing or a squeeze of lime juice to refresh the flavors and add moisture.
Enjoy your reheated asian chicken noodle salad, which should taste just as delicious as when it was first prepared!

Interesting Trivia About Asian Chicken Noodle Salad

Ramen noodle soup mix is a versatile ingredient that can be used in various recipes, including salads, stir-fries, and soups.

Is Making Asian Chicken Noodle Salad at Home Cost-Effective?

This Asian chicken noodle salad recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The ingredients are affordable and easily accessible, making it a budget-friendly choice. The use of chicken, coleslaw blend, and ramen noodle soup mix provides a good balance of protein and vegetables, ensuring a satisfying meal. The dressing ingredients are also common pantry items, further adding to the cost-effectiveness. Overall, this recipe offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures at a reasonable cost. I would rate it an 8/10 for its affordability and delicious outcome. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $15-$20.

Is This Asian Chicken Noodle Salad Healthy?

The Asian chicken noodle salad recipe, while tasty, may not be the healthiest option due to several factors:

The ramen noodles are typically high in sodium and processed carbohydrates, lacking in essential nutrients
The dressing contains a significant amount of sugar and oil, which can contribute to excess calories and unhealthy fats
Soy sauce is also high in sodium, and the recipe calls for a substantial amount (¾ cup)
The recipe lacks a variety of vegetables, focusing mainly on the coleslaw blend

However, the salad does have some redeeming qualities, such as the inclusion of chicken for protein and peanuts for healthy fats.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:

Swap the ramen noodles for a whole grain or vegetable-based noodle alternative, such as soba noodles or zucchini noodles
Reduce the amount of sugar in the dressing or replace it with a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup
Use low-sodium soy sauce or replace some of the soy sauce with a lower-sodium alternative like coconut aminos
Increase the variety of vegetables in the salad by adding carrots, bell peppers, or edamame for added nutrients and fiber
Use a leaner cut of chicken, such as chicken breast, and consider grilling or baking it instead of using pre-cooked chicken
Reduce the amount of oil in the dressing or opt for a healthier oil like avocado or olive oil
Add fresh herbs like cilantro or mint for added flavor and nutrients

Editor's Take: My Honest Opinion on This Asian Chicken Noodle Salad

The Asian chicken noodle salad recipe is a delightful fusion of flavors and textures. The combination of crunchy ramen noodles, crisp coleslaw, tender chicken, and nutty peanuts creates a satisfying dish. The dressing, with its perfect balance of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors, ties everything together beautifully. The addition of green onions provides a fresh, aromatic finish. This recipe is a wonderful choice for a light and refreshing meal, perfect for any occasion.

Enhance Your Asian Chicken Noodle Salad Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Grilled Vegetables: Try serving a side of grilled vegetables to complement the flavors of the Asian chicken noodle salad. The smoky charred taste of the vegetables will add depth to the meal.

Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad would be the perfect side dish to balance out the savory and tangy flavors of the Asian chicken noodle salad. The sweetness of the fruits will provide a delightful contrast.

Miso Soup: A warm and comforting bowl of miso soup would be a great accompaniment to the Asian chicken noodle salad. The umami-rich broth will add a comforting element to the meal.

Alternative Recipes Similar to Asian Chicken Noodle Salad

Spicy Beef Stir-Fry: This spicy beef stir-fry is a quick and easy dish that packs a punch of flavor. The combination of tender beef, colorful vegetables, and a spicy sauce will leave your taste buds wanting more.

Mango Salsa Chicken: This mango salsa chicken is a refreshing and tropical twist on a classic chicken dish. The sweet and tangy mango salsa pairs perfectly with the juicy chicken, creating a dish that is bursting with flavor.

Creamy Tomato Basil Soup: This creamy tomato basil soup is the ultimate comfort food. The rich and velvety texture of the soup, combined with the vibrant flavors of ripe tomatoes and fresh basil, will warm you up from the inside out.

Berry Cobbler: This berry cobbler is a delightful dessert that showcases the natural sweetness of fresh berries. The buttery, golden crust pairs perfectly with the juicy, tart berries, creating a dessert that is both comforting and satisfying.

Appetizers and Desserts to Complement Asian Chicken Noodle Salad Recipe

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Create a savory and indulgent appetizer by stuffing mushrooms with a flavorful mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. Bake until golden and bubbly for a delicious start to any meal.

Caprese Skewers: Impress your guests with these elegant and refreshing skewers featuring cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil. Drizzle with balsamic glaze for a burst of flavor in every bite.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and velvety chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. The smooth and decadent texture will leave your taste buds craving for more.

Strawberry Cheesecake: Savor the creamy and luscious strawberry cheesecake, with a buttery graham cracker crust and a sweet strawberry topping. Each bite is a delightful combination of tangy and sweet flavors that will leave you wanting another slice.

Why trust this Asian Chicken Noodle Salad Recipe:

This recipe is a delicious fusion of flavors and textures, combining the crunch of ramen noodles and peanuts with the freshness of coleslaw and the savory goodness of chicken. The dressing, made with soy sauce, sesame seeds, and rice wine vinegar, adds a perfect balance of sweet and tangy notes. The careful blending of these ingredients creates a mouthwatering Asian chicken noodle salad that is sure to impress and satisfy. Trust in the harmony of these ingredients to deliver a delightful culinary experience.

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FAQ:

What is the best way to store the Asian chicken noodle salad?

The best way to store the Asian chicken noodle salad is to keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should be consumed within 2-3 days for the best taste and freshness.

Can I make the dressing in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dressing in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just give it a good shake before using it to ensure the ingredients are well combined.

Can I use a different type of noodle for this salad?

Yes, you can definitely use a different type of noodle if you prefer. Soba noodles or rice noodles would work well in this recipe, giving it a unique twist.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the salad ahead of time by mixing the coleslaw, chicken, and nuts together. However, it's best to add the dressing and mix it in just before serving to maintain the crunchiness of the noodles and coleslaw.

Can I substitute the chicken with another protein?

Absolutely! You can substitute the chicken with shrimp, tofu, or even thinly sliced beef to suit your preferences or dietary requirements. Just ensure the protein is cooked and seasoned to your liking before adding it to the salad.