Sesame Kohlrabi & Chicken Salad

A Crunchy, Flavor-Packed Salad with a Punch of Sesame

If you’re looking for a refreshing, protein-packed salad that’s bursting with crunch and flavor, this Sesame Kohlrabi & Chicken Salad is your new go-to! With a zesty sesame dressing, tender shredded chicken, and crisp veggies like kohlrabi, napa cabbage, and snow peas, every bite is a delightful mix of textures and tastes. Plus, it’s quick to make, full of healthy ingredients, and perfect for meal prep!

this Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Key Benefits

• Easy & Quick – Ready in just 15 minutes with simple prep
• Great for Meal Prep – Stays fresh for days, making it perfect for lunches
• Healthy & Balanced – High in protein, fiber, and good fats, making it a satisfying meal
• Family-Friendly – Mild heat with customizable spice levels to suit everyone’s tastes

Taste & Texture

• Crisp and refreshing, thanks to the kohlrabi, cabbage, and snow peas
• Juicy, tender shredded chicken adds a hearty bite
• Nutty and savory sesame dressing with a hint of citrusy brightness

Dietary Attributes

• Dairy-Free
• Gluten-Free (when using tamari instead of soy sauce)
• Low-Carb and High-Protein

Ingredients & Substitutions

Ingredient List

• ¼ cup rice vinegar
• 3 tablespoons 50%-less-sodium tamari
• 1 tablespoon chile-garlic sauce
• 1 tablespoon grated orange zest
• ½ cup finely chopped fresh cilantro, divided
• 2 tablespoons neutral oil (such as canola or avocado)
• 2 tablespoons toasted sesame oil
• 1 large kohlrabi (about 1 pound), peeled and cut into matchsticks
• 3 cups shredded napa cabbage
• 3 cups shredded cooked chicken
• 1 cup grated carrots
• 1 cup thinly sliced snow peas
• ¼ cup sliced almonds, toasted
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds, toasted

Notes on Quality

For the freshest flavors, use organic napa cabbage and carrots if possible. Fresh kohlrabi has a crisp texture, but if you can’t find it, you can substitute jicama or even daikon radish for a similar crunch.

Possible Substitutions

• No kohlrabi? Use jicama or radish for a similar crunch
• Vegetarian option: Swap chicken for tofu or tempeh
• Nut-free version: Skip the almonds and add sunflower seeds for crunch

Step-by-Step Instructions

• In a large bowl, whisk together rice vinegar, tamari, chile-garlic sauce, orange zest, and ¼ cup chopped cilantro.
• Slowly whisk in neutral oil and toasted sesame oil until fully combined.

• Stir in kohlrabi, napa cabbage, shredded chicken, carrots, and snow peas. Toss well to coat everything in the dressing.
• Top with toasted almonds, sesame seeds, and the remaining ¼ cup of chopped cilantro before serving.

Expert Tips & Tricks

Best Practices

• Use a sharp knife or mandoline to get even matchstick-sized kohlrabi pieces for the best texture.
• Toast the sesame seeds and almonds for a richer, nuttier flavor.

Common Mistakes

• Overdressing the salad – The ingredients are crisp, so let them absorb the dressing for a few minutes before adding more.
• Skipping the zest – The orange zest balances the heat and adds a bright, citrusy flavor that makes the dish pop.

Time-Saving Tips

• Use pre-shredded cabbage and carrots to cut down on prep time
• Make the dressing in advance and store it in the fridge for up to five days

Serving Suggestions

Pairings

This salad pairs beautifully with a side of crusty bread or a light soup like miso broth.

Presentation Ideas

For a vibrant look, serve in a wide bowl and garnish with extra cilantro and sesame seeds.

Beverage Pairings

• White wine: Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio complement the citrus and sesame flavors
• Non-alcoholic: Green tea or a fresh citrus-infused water

Storage & Reheating

Leftover Storage

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.

Reheating Methods

This salad is best served cold, but if you prefer warm chicken, add the shredded chicken separately and heat it for 30 seconds in the microwave before mixing it in.

Frequently Asked Questions

Substitutions & Adjustments

Can I use a different protein?
Yes! Swap the chicken for shrimp, tofu, or even shredded turkey.

Is this salad spicy?
It has a mild heat from the chile-garlic sauce, but you can adjust it by adding less or more to your preference.

Troubleshooting

My salad is too dry—how do I fix it?
Add a splash of rice vinegar and sesame oil to refresh the flavors.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble everything except the dressing and store it separately. Toss right before serving for the best texture.

Variations & Customizations

Dietary Adaptations

• Vegan Version: Swap the chicken for crispy tofu and use coconut aminos instead of tamari
• Low-Sodium: Reduce the tamari and use low-sodium broth in the dressing for added depth

Flavor Twists

• Add crushed peanuts for a Thai-inspired twist
• Swap orange zest for lime zest for a different citrus profile

Seasonal/Holiday Versions

• In the fall, add pomegranate seeds for a festive touch
• In the summer, toss in fresh mango slices for a tropical variation

Conclusion

This Sesame Kohlrabi & Chicken Salad is fresh, crunchy, and packed with bold flavors, making it the perfect addition to your meal rotation. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or making a quick lunch, this salad delivers on both taste and nutrition. Give it a try and let me know what you think in the comments!

Looking for more fresh, vibrant salads? Try these recipes:
Beet Garden Salad with Goat Cheese
Tomato Feta Salad

Follow me on Pinterest for more delicious recipes: Cooking with Callie on Pinterest

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