Chinese Chicken Salad from Cheesesteak Factory features tender grilled chicken, crisp cabbage, crunchy wonton strips, and fresh scallions tossed in a tangy sesame dressing, delivering a refreshing and flavorful crunch in every bite.
Equipments
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Grill pan or grill
- Tongs
- Salad spinner
- Measuring spoons
- Measuring cups
- Large serving bowl
Ingredients
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 6 cups napa cabbage
- 2 cups red cabbage
- 1 cup carrots
- 1 cup bean sprouts
- 4 green onions
- 1 cup crispy wonton strips
- 1/2 cup sliced almonds
- 2 tablespoons sesame seeds
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 3 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 2 teaspoons grated fresh ginger
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Cooking spray or oil for grilling
Using fresh napa and red cabbage is essential to achieve the crisp texture characteristic of this Chinese Chicken Salad. Make sure to grill the boneless skinless chicken breasts evenly, using cooking spray or oil to prevent sticking and maintain juiciness. Tossing the salad with a tangy sesame dressing made from soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and hoisin sauce enhances the authentic flavor profile. Adding crunchy wonton strips and sliced almonds provides a satisfying contrast in every bite. You can recreate the delicious taste of the Chinese Chicken Salad from Cheesesteak Factory with this copycat recipe by carefully balancing fresh ingredients and vibrant dressing.
Instructions
- Instructions:
- Preheat grill pan or grill; spray with cooking spray or brush with oil.
- Season chicken breasts with salt and black pepper.
- Grill chicken until fully cooked; let rest and slice thinly.
- Thinly slice napa and red cabbage using chef’s knife.
- Julienne or shred carrots.
- Slice green onions diagonally.
- Rinse and dry bean sprouts using salad spinner.
- Whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, sesame oil, vegetable oil, hoisin sauce, sugar, ginger, and garlic in a mixing bowl to make the dressing.
- In a large serving bowl, combine napa cabbage, red cabbage, carrots, bean sprouts, green onions, cilantro, and grilled chicken.
- Drizzle salad with prepared sesame dressing; toss to coat evenly.
- Add wonton strips, sliced almonds, and sesame seeds.
- Gently toss salad again just before serving.
- Serve immediately.
Substitution
Chinese Chicken Salad from Cheesesteak Factory copycat menu offers a vibrant combination of grilled chicken and crisp vegetables tossed in a rich sesame dressing. If boneless chicken breasts are unavailable, boneless chicken thighs can provide a juicier alternative with similar flavor. Napa cabbage can be substituted with green cabbage or romaine lettuce for a different texture while maintaining crunch. You may replace wonton strips with toasted tortilla strips or crushed nuts if you prefer a gluten-free option or don't have wontons on hand. Adjust the soy sauce and hoisin sauce quantities to suit your taste or dietary sodium restrictions without compromising the dish's traditional flavor profile.
Tips
Make sure to fully cook the chicken to an internal temperature of 165degF (74degC) to ensure food safety. Use a salad spinner to thoroughly dry the bean sprouts and cabbage to prevent a soggy salad. Whisk the dressing ingredients well so the honey and sugar dissolve completely, giving your salad a balanced flavor. You can save time by prepping and slicing all vegetables before grilling the chicken for a smoother cooking process.
Nutritions
Chinese Chicken Salad from Cheesesteak Factory provides a balanced mix of lean protein from grilled chicken and a variety of fresh vegetables rich in vitamins A, C, and K. The napa and red cabbages deliver dietary fiber and antioxidants that support digestion and immune function. Crunchy wonton strips and sliced almonds contribute healthy fats and texture, while the sesame dressing offers a flavorful blend of sesame oil and soy sauce with moderate sodium content. You'll enjoy a nutrient-dense meal that combines protein, fiber, and essential nutrients in every refreshing bite.
Storage
Store any leftover Chinese Chicken Salad separately from the crispy wonton strips to prevent sogginess and maintain texture. Keep the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within 2 days for optimal freshness. When ready to serve again, toss the salad with the wonton strips to restore the desired crunch and flavor balance.
Variation or Alternatives
For a variation, swap the grilled chicken with crispy tofu or shrimp to suit your dietary preference. Substitute napa cabbage with bok choy or romaine lettuce for a different texture and flavor profile. Replace wonton strips with crunchy rice noodles or roasted chickpeas to maintain the crunch factor. You can also enhance the dressing by adding a splash of lime juice or a teaspoon of chili garlic sauce for a zesty or spicy kick.
Allergies
Chinese Chicken Salad from Cheesesteak Factory contains common allergens such as soy from soy sauce and hoisin sauce, nuts from sliced almonds, and sesame seeds in the dressing. Wonton strips may contain gluten, and the presence of eggs should be confirmed if allergies are a concern. You should carefully review the ingredients if you have allergies to nuts, soy, gluten, or sesame before enjoying this dish.
Why this recipe?
The Chinese Chicken Salad at Cheesesteak Factory restaurant is popular for its perfect balance of crunchy vegetables, tender chicken, and zesty Asian-inspired dressing, creating a fresh and flavorful experience. Fresh ingredients like napa cabbage, crispy wonton strips, and sesame seeds contribute to its unique texture and vibrant taste. You will appreciate the mix of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors, making it a refreshing and satisfying option. Trying to make this copycat salad allows you to enjoy a restaurant-quality dish at home with customizable ingredients and sauces tailored to your preferences.