Bobby Flay Chinese Chicken Salad

Bobby Flay’s Chinese Chicken Salad is a fusion of crisp vegetables, tender chicken, and a bold sesame-ginger dressing. It’s light yet satisfying, crunchy yet juicy, and packed with sweet, salty, and tangy notes that awaken every bite. Ideal for lunch or dinner, this colorful salad is a refreshing twist on classic Asian flavors—done Flay-style with spice and flair.

What is Bobby Flay’s Chinese Chicken Salad?

This salad brings together shredded chicken breast, crunchy napa cabbage, carrots, scallions, crispy wontons or noodles, and toasted almonds, all tossed in a vibrant sesame-soy vinaigrette. Bobby Flay’s version often includes bold additions like chili-garlic sauce or hoisin for depth, giving it his signature punch of flavor.

Other Bobby Flay Salad Recipes

• Bobby Flay’s Chinese Chicken Salad
• Bobby Flay Pasta Salad

Why You Love This Recipe

• Bright, bold flavor – The sesame dressing balances sweet, spicy, and savory notes.
• Loaded with texture – Crisp veggies, tender chicken, and crunchy toppings.
• Healthy and refreshing – High in protein, fiber-rich, and light on the stomach.
• Perfect for meal prep – Dressing and salad store well separately.
• Versatile base – Easy to customize with your favorite add-ins.

Ingredients Needed to Make Bobby Flay’s Chinese Chicken Salad

• Cooked chicken breast (shredded) – 3 cups
• Napa cabbage (thinly sliced) – 4 cups
• Red cabbage (optional) – 1 cup, shredded
• Carrots (julienned or shredded) – 1 cup
• Scallions (sliced thin) – 4
• Cilantro (chopped) – ¼ cup
• Toasted almonds or cashews – ½ cup
• Crispy wonton strips or noodles – 1 cup
• Sesame seeds – 1 tablespoon (optional)

For the dressing:

• Soy sauce (low sodium) – 3 tablespoons
• Rice vinegar – 2 tablespoons
• Toasted sesame oil – 2 tablespoons
• Canola or neutral oil – 2 tablespoons
• Honey or brown sugar – 1 tablespoon
• Garlic (minced) – 2 cloves
• Ginger (grated) – 1 tablespoon
• Chili-garlic paste (optional) – 1 teaspoon
• Lime juice – 1 tablespoon

Instructions to Prepare Bobby Flay’s Chinese Chicken Salad

• Make the dressing – In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, canola oil, honey, garlic, ginger, chili-garlic paste, and lime juice until emulsified.
• Toss the salad base – In a large bowl, combine napa cabbage, red cabbage (if using), carrots, scallions, and cilantro.
• Add shredded chicken – Toss in the cooked, cooled shredded chicken.
• Pour the dressing – Add just enough dressing to coat ingredients without over-saturating. Toss well.
• Top with crunch – Just before serving, sprinkle crispy wontons/noodles and toasted nuts. Garnish with sesame seeds.
• Serve immediately – Enjoy cold or at room temperature.

What Goes Well With Bobby Flay’s Chinese Chicken Salad

• Pair with spring rolls – Complements the Asian-inspired flavor.
• Serve with a bowl of soup – A light miso or egg drop soup makes a great pairing.
• Add steamed jasmine rice – Makes it a more filling meal.
• Enjoy iced green tea – Enhances the freshness of the salad.
• Finish with a light dessert – Think fruit sorbet or mochi.

Pro Tips to Make Perfect Bobby Flay Chinese Chicken Salad

• Use rotisserie chicken to save time – Quick and flavorful option.
• Toast nuts for added aroma – Brings out a richer, nuttier taste.
• Dress only before serving – Keeps veggies crisp and fresh.
• Slice vegetables thinly and evenly – For a balanced bite and texture.
• Chill ingredients beforehand – Makes the salad more refreshing.

Variations of Bobby Flay’s Chinese Chicken Salad

• Add mandarin oranges – A sweet citrus burst balances the savory.
• Swap chicken for shrimp or tofu – Keeps it fresh and dietary-friendly.
• Mix in edamame or snap peas – For a protein and fiber boost.
• Try a peanut dressing – Adds a creamy, nutty spin to the salad.
• Spice it up – Add sriracha or red pepper flakes for extra heat.

Storage Guidelines for Bobby Flay’s Chinese Chicken Salad

• Refrigerate undressed salad – Keeps for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
• Store dressing separately – Helps retain crunch and freshness.
• Keep toppings apart – Add crispy noodles or nuts right before serving.
• Avoid freezing – Fresh vegetables and avocado don’t freeze well.

Reheating Tips for Bobby Flay’s Chinese Chicken Salad

• Do not reheat the salad – Best served cold or at room temperature.
• Warm chicken separately if needed – If using cold leftover chicken, microwave gently before adding.
• Toss gently after chilling – Refresh the mix and redistribute the dressing if made ahead.

Nutritional Value (per Serving)

Approximate values based on 6 servings

• Calories: 330 kcal
• Protein: 24 g
• Fat: 20 g
  • Saturated Fat: 3 g
• Carbohydrates: 15 g
  • Sugars: 6 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Cholesterol: 55 mg
• Sodium: 550 mg

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FAQs

Can I make Chinese Chicken Salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep all the components in advance, but store the dressing and crispy toppings separately. Combine just before serving to keep everything fresh and crunchy.

What type of chicken works best for Chinese Chicken Salad?

Shredded rotisserie chicken or poached boneless chicken breasts are ideal. They’re tender, easy to shred, and absorb the dressing well.

Is Chinese Chicken Salad served hot or cold?

It’s traditionally served cold or at room temperature, making it perfect for warm-weather meals or prepping ahead.

What can I use instead of crispy wontons in this salad?

You can substitute crispy rice noodles or crushed ramen noodles for a similar crunch if wonton strips aren’t available.

Final Words

Bobby Flay’s Chinese Chicken Salad is everything you want in a fresh, satisfying meal—crunchy, zesty, colorful, and full of flavor. It’s a perfect dish to make ahead or bring to the table when you want something light but impactful. Try it once, and it’ll become a go-to in your salad rotation.