Tired of the same old lunch routine? Craving something delicious, healthy, and surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further than this vibrant and flavorful Chicken Ramen Salad! This recipe transforms humble ramen noodles into a satisfying and protein-packed meal perfect for a quick lunch, a light dinner, or even a fun potluck contribution. It's packed with fresh veggies, tender chicken, and a zesty dressing – all coming together in under 30 minutes. Get ready to elevate your weeknight meal game with this simple yet impressive dish!
Ingredients:
- 1 (3-ounce) package ramen noodles, flavor packet discarded
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded or diced (rotisserie chicken works perfectly!)
- 1/2 cup shredded carrots
- 1/2 cup shredded red cabbage
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- 1/4 cup toasted sesame seeds
For the Dressing:
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1 clove garlic, minced
Instructions:
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Cook the Ramen: Cook the ramen noodles according to package directions, but discard the flavor packet. Rinse the noodles under cold water to stop the cooking process and prevent them from sticking together. Set aside to drain completely.
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Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, honey (or maple syrup), ginger, and garlic. Set aside.
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Combine the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the cooked ramen noodles, shredded chicken, carrots, red cabbage, green onions, and cilantro.
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Dress and Serve: Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat everything evenly. Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds before serving. Enjoy immediately or chill for later.
Tips and Variations:
- Protein Power-Up: Feel free to swap the chicken for shrimp, tofu, or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option.
- Veggie Boost: Add other crunchy vegetables like bell peppers, edamame, or snap peas.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing for a little kick.
- Make it Creamy: Stir in a tablespoon or two of mayonnaise or Greek yogurt for a creamier dressing.
- Meal Prep Friendly: This salad is perfect for meal prepping. Make a large batch and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 350-400 Protein: 25-30g Fat: 15-20g Carbohydrates: 30-35g
Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on specific ingredients used.
This Chicken Ramen Salad is a fantastic example of delicious and healthy food recipes that are easy to make. It's a quick dinner idea perfect for busy weeknights and a great way to enjoy homemade cooking without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s one of the best recipes for a light yet satisfying meal, providing a healthy and tasty option for your daily diet. Enjoy!