Discovering the Best Chinese Chicken Salad in Chicago

1. Why Choose Chinese Chicken Salad in Chicago

Chinese Chicken Salad is a delightful and refreshing dish that combines crispy vegetables, tender chicken, and a zesty dressing. In Chicago, a city known for its vibrant culinary scene, this dish offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Whether you're looking for a light meal or something more filling, Chinese Chicken Salad is a versatile choice that can be enjoyed for lunch, dinner, or as a snack.

Chicago is home to a wide range of dining experiences, and its take on Chinese Chicken Salad blends traditional ingredients with local innovation, giving you a fresh perspective on this classic dish. For those who enjoy a flavorful, healthy meal, the city’s diverse restaurants offer a great opportunity to experience Chinese-inspired salads in various forms.

2. Top Places to Try Chinese Chicken Salad in Chicago

Chicago offers numerous places where you can savor Chinese Chicken Salad. Here are some of the top spots that are famous for their take on this flavorful dish:

2.1. Sun Wah BBQ

Known for its outstanding Chinese BBQ, Sun Wah also serves a delectable Chinese Chicken Salad. This dish features crispy vegetables, shredded chicken, and a perfectly balanced sesame-based dressing. The light yet flavorful salad makes it a great choice to pair with other Chinese BBQ dishes.

2.2. Chinatown’s Lao Sze Chuan

If you're craving a bit of spice with your Chinese Chicken Salad, Lao Sze Chuan in Chicago’s Chinatown is the place to be. Their version of the salad is packed with vibrant flavors and includes a little extra heat to satisfy spice lovers, making it a unique option in the city.

2.3. The Purple Pig

For a more upscale take on Chinese Chicken Salad, The Purple Pig offers a twist on the classic with a creative flair. Located on Michigan Avenue, this restaurant serves a delicious version that combines fresh ingredients with a rich, tangy dressing. It’s perfect for a refined yet casual dining experience.

3. Unique Variations of Chinese Chicken Salad in Chicago

Chinese Chicken Salad can be found in various forms across Chicago, with each restaurant offering its own unique take on the classic. Some variations include:

3.1. Vegan Chinese Chicken Salad

For those looking for a plant-based option, some restaurants offer a vegan version of Chinese Chicken Salad. This typically replaces chicken with tofu or tempeh, providing a protein-packed alternative that’s equally satisfying. The dressing, made with sesame oil and tamari, keeps the dish rich in flavor.

3.2. Spicy Asian Chicken Salad

For spice enthusiasts, some Chicago restaurants offer a spicy version of Chinese Chicken Salad. It’s made with chili oil or fresh jalapeños, adding an extra kick to the salad. This variation pairs well with a refreshing cucumber or mango garnish to balance the heat.

3.3. Grilled Chicken Chinese Salad

Grilled chicken is often used as an alternative to the traditional shredded chicken in many places around Chicago. This variation offers a smoky flavor, complementing the crunch of fresh vegetables and the creamy dressing. It’s a great choice for those who prefer a heartier version of the salad.

4. How to Make Chinese Chicken Salad at Home

If you're craving Chinese Chicken Salad but want to try making it yourself, here’s a simple recipe that you can follow:

4.1. Ingredients

• 2 cups of cooked and shredded chicken (grilled or poached)
• 1 cup of shredded cabbage
• 1 cup of shredded carrots
• 1/2 cup of sliced cucumber
• 1/4 cup of sliced almonds
• 2 tablespoons of sesame oil
• 2 tablespoons of soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon of rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon of sugar
• 1 tablespoon of sesame seeds

4.2. Instructions

Mix the shredded chicken, cabbage, carrots, and cucumber in a large bowl. In a small bowl, whisk together the sesame oil, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, and sesame seeds to make the dressing. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to coat evenly. Garnish with sliced almonds, and serve chilled.

5. Perfect Accompaniments to Chinese Chicken Salad

Chinese Chicken Salad pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides and drinks. Here are a few ideas to elevate your meal:

5.1. Steamed Dumplings

Steamed dumplings, filled with pork, chicken, or vegetables, complement the freshness of the Chinese Chicken Salad. The soft, juicy filling contrasts beautifully with the crunchiness of the salad.

5.2. Miso Soup

A warm bowl of miso soup is a great side to accompany Chinese Chicken Salad. The light, umami flavor of the miso broth balances the salad’s tangy dressing and provides a soothing addition to the meal.

5.3. Iced Green Tea

For a refreshing drink, iced green tea is a perfect match for Chinese Chicken Salad. The mild, slightly bitter taste of green tea pairs well with the flavors of the salad, cleansing your palate between bites.