This ginger chicken and cabbage salad is a satisfying main dish that brings together crisp vegetables, tender chicken, fresh herbs, and a flavorful ginger dressing.
With just 10 minutes of preparation and 15 minutes of cooking, you can have a complete meal ready in about 25 minutes. Frozen cooked chicken tenders and pre-shredded coleslaw make this recipe especially convenient for busy weekdays.
Fresh cilantro, basil, and mint add an aromatic touch, while sliced almonds and sesame seeds provide a pleasant crunch. Tossed with a tangy ginger dressing, the ingredients create a refreshing balance of savory, sweet, and zesty flavors.
The recipe makes three generous servings and works well for a quick lunch or an easy dinner.
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Servings: 3
- Course: Main Course
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
- Calories: 572 per serving
Ingredients
- 1 (14-ounce) bag pre-shredded coleslaw mix
- 8 ounces frozen, fully cooked chicken tenders
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 2 tablespoons minced fresh basil
- 2 tablespoons minced fresh mint
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons sliced raw almonds
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
- 1/3 cup prepared ginger salad dressing
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
Prepare the frozen chicken tenders according to the package directions. For an air fryer, cook them for approximately 13 minutes, or until heated through and crispy. If using a microwave, heat on High for about 4 minutes, following the package instructions.
Once cooked, allow the chicken to cool slightly. This helps prevent the hot pieces from softening the fresh cabbage. Slice the tenders into bite-sized pieces and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Salad Ingredients
Place the coleslaw mix in a large mixing bowl. Add the chopped cilantro, minced basil, and fresh mint. Slice the green onions, reserving about 3 tablespoons of the green tops for garnish. Add the remaining onion slices to the bowl.
Sprinkle in the sliced almonds and gently mix the ingredients to distribute the herbs and nuts throughout the cabbage.
Step 3: Add the Ginger Dressing
Pour the prepared ginger dressing over the cabbage mixture. Toss thoroughly using salad tongs or two large spoons, making sure the vegetables and herbs are evenly coated.
Taste the mixture and add a little more dressing if desired. Avoid adding too much at once, as excess dressing can make the cabbage soggy.
Step 4: Assemble and Garnish
Divide the dressed cabbage salad among three serving plates, or keep it in the large bowl for family-style serving. Arrange the sliced chicken tenders over the top of the salad.
Finish with the reserved green onions and a generous sprinkling of sesame seeds. Serve immediately while the cabbage and almonds are still crisp and the chicken is freshly warmed.
Tips for Making the Best Ginger Chicken Salad
- Let the chicken cool slightly: Adding extremely hot chicken directly to the raw cabbage can soften the vegetables. A brief cooling period helps maintain the salad’s fresh texture.
- Keep the almonds crunchy: For the best texture, add the almonds shortly before serving. You can also lightly toast them in a dry skillet over medium-low heat until fragrant, then allow them to cool before adding.
- Adjust the dressing gradually: Start with the recommended quantity and toss thoroughly before deciding whether more is needed. This keeps the vegetables from becoming overly wet.
- Prepare the herbs carefully: Wash and dry the fresh herbs before chopping. Excess water can dilute the dressing, while finely chopped herbs distribute their flavor more evenly.
- Serve immediately: Once dressed, the cabbage begins to soften. For the freshest results, combine the dressing and vegetables shortly before mealtime.
Easy Recipe Variations
Use Freshly Shredded Cabbage
If you don’t have a bag of coleslaw mix, prepare your own vegetable base using finely shredded green cabbage. You can also combine green and red cabbage for a colorful presentation.
Thinly sliced carrots are another convenient addition if you want extra vegetable variety.
Make Your Own Ginger Dressing
A homemade dressing is an easy way to customize the flavor. Whisk together your preferred oil and vinegar with freshly grated ginger. Taste and adjust the balance to suit your preference.
A little sweetener can be added if you enjoy a sweeter dressing, while extra ginger creates a more pronounced spicy flavor.
Try Different Chicken Options
Fully cooked frozen tenders are convenient, but freshly grilled chicken breast or homemade Chicken Milanese also works well.
Slice the cooked chicken into small strips or bite-sized pieces before placing it over the cabbage. For a different presentation, serve the chicken chilled instead of warm.
Customize the Crunch
Sliced almonds provide a nutty contrast to the tender chicken and crisp cabbage. If you prefer, increase the amount slightly or add extra sesame seeds. Toasting the nuts before adding them can bring out their flavor, but allow them to cool first.
Adjust the Fresh Herbs
The combination of cilantro, basil, and mint gives this salad its distinctive fresh flavor. If you prefer a milder herbal taste, adjust the quantities to your liking while keeping the cabbage, chicken, and ginger dressing as the foundation.
Serving Suggestions
This salad is substantial enough to serve as a complete meal, especially for a quick lunch or light dinner. Serve it in individual bowls with the chicken arranged on top for an attractive presentation.
For a larger meal, pair it with steamed rice, warm flatbread, or a simple vegetable side dish. It can also be served as part of a casual lunch spread alongside other fresh salads and light appetizers.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
For the best texture, store the cooked chicken, shredded cabbage mixture, dressing, and crunchy toppings separately if preparing ahead. Refrigerate the chicken promptly in an airtight container and use it within 3 to 4 days.
Keep the prepared vegetables and herbs refrigerated, and assemble the salad just before serving.
If you have already dressed the salad, refrigerate leftovers promptly in a covered container and enjoy them within 1 to 2 days, understanding that the cabbage will gradually soften.
Keep the almonds and sesame seeds separate until serving whenever possible.
Nutrition Facts
The following approximate nutritional values are provided per serving, based on the specified ingredients and quantities.
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 572 |
| Total Fat | 40g |
| Saturated Fat | 6g |
| Cholesterol | 45mg |
| Sodium | 1,295mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 37g |
| Dietary Fiber | 5g |
| Total Sugars | 16g |
| Protein | 18g |
| Vitamin C | 21mg |
| Calcium | 115mg |
| Iron | 2mg |
| Potassium | 566mg |
Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000-calorie diet. Actual nutritional values may vary depending on the chicken tenders, dressing, and other brands used.
Final Thoughts
Quick and easy ginger chicken and cabbage salad is a practical way to prepare a flavorful meal without spending much time in the kitchen.
With convenient prepared ingredients, a colorful mixture of fresh herbs, crunchy almonds, and a tangy ginger dressing, it brings together a variety of textures in every bite.
Customize the chicken, dressing, or vegetables to suit your preferences, and enjoy it freshly assembled for a simple, satisfying meal.
