California's Chinese Chicken Salad is more than just a dish; it's a culinary legend. Originating in the Golden State's vibrant restaurant scene, this salad transcends the typical, offering a vibrant explosion of flavors and textures. Crisp greens, juicy chicken, crunchy wonton strips, and a tangy, savory dressing combine in a symphony of taste that's both refreshing and satisfying. Unlike its more subdued cousins, this salad boasts a bold personality, a testament to California's innovative culinary spirit. Its popularity extends far beyond the state's borders, captivating palates with its unique blend of sweet, sour, and savory elements.
This irresistible salad is incredibly versatile, easily adaptable to personal preferences and dietary needs. Whether you prefer a classic version or a creative twist, this recipe delivers. Ready to create your own California dream salad? Let's dive into the step-by-step guide to making the perfect Chinese Chicken Salad.
Tools Needed
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Bowls
- Saucier or saute pan
- Spider
- Wire rack
- Small pan
- Whisk
- Vegetable peeler
Ingredients
- Chicken breast: 2
- All-purpose flour: 2 cups
- Eggs: 1 per breast
- Panko bread crumbs: null
- Salt: null
- Wonton or egg roll wraps: 1/2 to 1/3 pack
- Slivered almonds: 2 tablespoons
- Sesame seeds: 2 tablespoons
- Oil: null
- Dijon mustard: 1.5-2 tablespoons
- Agave: 1.5-2 tablespoons
- Sriracha: 0.5 tablespoon
- Mandarin or orange juice: 1 or 1/4-1/2
- Soy sauce: 2-3 tablespoons
- Sesame oil: 1 tablespoon
- Rice vinegar: 1.5 tablespoons
- Pepper: null
- Iceberg lettuce: 1/4
- Romaine lettuce: null
- Radicchio: 1/2
- Carrot: 1
- Green onions: null
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Ingredients
- Slice chicken breasts thinly (about 3-4 slices per breast).
- Cut wonton wrappers into thick strips.
- Toast slivered almonds and sesame seeds.
- slice romaine, iceberg, and radicchio.
- Shred carrot into julienne strips.
- Thinly slice green onions and soak in ice water for 15 minutes.
Step 2. Cook the Chicken and Wontons
- flour, egg, panko.
- flour, egg, panko, ensuring full coverage.
- Fry wonton strips until golden brown (about 4 minutes).
- Fry chicken cutlets until golden brown and crispy (about 4-5 minutes).
Step 3. Make the Dressing
- whisk together Dijon mustard, agave, sriracha, citrus juice, soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, salt, and pepper. Slowly stream in oil until emulsified.
Step 4. Assemble the Salad
- toss lettuces with salt, add sliced chicken, wontons, dressing, almonds, sesame seeds, and green onions.
Read more: Chinese Shredded Chicken Salad Recipe: Easy Sesame Chicken
Tips
- Practice makes perfect when slicing chicken thinly.
- Press panko firmly onto chicken to ensure even browning and crispiness.
- Don't overcrowd the pan when frying. Cook in batches for optimal results.
- Adjust the dressing to your liking. Taste and balance sweetness, spiciness, acidity, and umami.
- For a thicker dressing, add more mustard or consider using egg yolk.
- Build the salad with height, layering ingredients to create visual appeal.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
It's best to assemble the salad just before serving to keep the lettuce crisp and the wonton strips crunchy. The dressing can be made ahead, though.
2. What can I substitute for the chicken?
Shrimp, tofu, or even roasted vegetables make excellent substitutes for the chicken. Adjust the seasoning to your liking depending on your choice of protein.
So there you have it – your very own California Chinese Chicken Salad! Enjoy the vibrant flavors and satisfying crunch of this iconic dish. Now go forth and impress your friends and family with this easy-to-make, crowd-pleasing recipe.