Korean-Style Crunchy Chicken Salad
This Korean-Style Crunchy Chicken Salad is a flavorful, refreshing dish that combines crispy chicken, crunchy veggies, and a bold, tangy-spicy dressing. It’s packed with textures and umami flavors, making it a perfect healthy yet satisfying meal!
Preparation: 15 minutes
Cooking: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Ingredients (Serves 4)
For the Crispy Chicken:
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into thin strips)
½ cup cornstarch (for extra crispiness)
1 egg (beaten)
½ cup panko breadcrumbs (or crushed rice crackers)
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon Korean gochutgaru (red pepper flakes, optional)
3 tablespoons olive oil (for pan-frying)
For the Salad Base:
4 cups mixed greens (romaine, cabbage, or kale)
1 cup shredded carrots
1 cup thinly sliced cucumbers
1 cup thinly sliced red bell peppers
½ cup shredded purple cabbage (optional)
¼ cup chopped green onions
¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
For the Spicy Gochujang Dressing:
2 tablespoons gochujang (Korean red pepper paste)
2 tablespoons rice vinegar
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon honey (or maple syrup)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon grated ginger
1 teaspoon minced garlic
1 teaspoon lime juice
2 tablespoons water (to thin, as needed)
Instructions
Prepare the Chicken:
Season chicken strips with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and gochutgaru.
Dredge chicken in cornstarch, dip into beaten egg, then coat with panko breadcrumbs.
Cook the Chicken:
Heat oil in a pan over medium heat.
Cook chicken strips for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.
Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together gochujang, rice vinegar, soy sauce, honey, olive oil, ginger, garlic, lime juice, and water until smooth.
Assemble the Salad:
In a large bowl, toss together mixed greens, carrots, cucumbers, bell peppers, cabbage, green onions, and cilantro.
Top with crispy chicken strips.
Dress & Garnish:
Drizzle with spicy gochujang dressing and toss lightly.
Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and extra green onions.
Serve & Enjoy!
Serve immediately for the best crunch and flavor!
Tips & Tricks
Extra Crunch
– Double-coat the chicken in panko for extra crispiness.
Make It Healthier
– Use grilled chicken instead of crispy fried.
Adjust Spice Level
– Reduce gochujang or add a little yogurt to mellow the heat.
Add More Protein
– Toss in edamame or tofu for a plant-based boost.
Meal Prep
– Store ingredients separately and mix before eating for freshness.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving, Approx.)
Calories: ~450 kcal
Protein: ~35g
Carbohydrates: ~40g
Fats: ~15g
Fiber: ~5g
Sodium: ~600mg