Name: Crispy Rice Salad with Sesame Ginger Dressing and Chicken Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 4 h 35 min
Cuisine: Asian Fusion
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked rice; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 1 teaspoon coconut aminos, soy sauce, or tamari; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; Juice of 2 medium limes (¼ cup); 3 tablespoons coconut aminos, soy sauce, or tamari; 3 tablespoons pure honey; 2 tablespoons toasted sesame oil; 2 teaspoons grated fresh ginger (very finely minced or grated on a microplane); 1 (12-ounce) package coleslaw mix with red cabbage and carrots; 2 cups cooked shredded chicken; 1 cup shelled edamame beans (thawed if frozen); 1 avocado, peeled, pitted, and diced; ½ cup chopped fresh cilantro; ¼ cup sliced green onions (white/light green and dark green parts separated); ¼ cup chopped roasted peanuts (omit for nut free)

Jump to Recipe· 3.9 from 10 reviews

If you’re craving a dish that bursts with texture, vibrant flavors, and a wonderful balance of fresh and savory, look no further than the Crispy Rice Salad with Sesame Ginger Dressing and Chicken Recipe. This salad is a personal favorite that brings together crispy, golden rice with tender shredded chicken, crunchy veggies, and a luscious sesame ginger dressing—a perfect blend that’s both refreshing and satisfying for any occasion.

Ingredients You'll Need

The image shows eight white bowls with different fresh ingredients arranged on a white marbled surface. Starting from the top left, there is a bowl with green, chunky avocado pieces. To its right, a bowl full of bright green edamame beans. Below the avocado, a small bowl with thinly sliced green onions, and next to that, a small bowl filled with golden roasted peanuts. To the right of the peanuts, a bowl holds shredded white chicken. Next to the chicken, a bowl piled with cooked rice with a mix of white and golden brown grains. At the bottom right, there is a large bowl filled with a colorful coleslaw mix of shredded white cabbage, purple cabbage, and thin carrot strips. Next to it, a small bowl with fresh green cilantro leaves. Lastly, a jar of brown dressing with a spoon sits near a whole lime and a lime half. The image is well-lit and balanced, photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Every ingredient in this Crispy Rice Salad with Sesame Ginger Dressing and Chicken Recipe plays a key role in creating a dish that’s both delicious and balanced. From the toasted sesame oil adding depth to the fresh ginger bringing zing, each component contributes texture, flavor, and color that will make this salad truly unforgettable.

2 cups cooked rice: Use day-old rice for the best crispy texture when baked.
1 tablespoon sesame oil: Adds a nutty richness that infuses the rice beautifully.
1 teaspoon coconut aminos, soy sauce, or tamari: A splash of umami flavor for seasoning the rice.
1 teaspoon garlic powder: Gives a gentle savory kick without overpowering the rice.
Juice of 2 medium limes (¼ cup): Brings a zesty brightness to the dressing.
3 tablespoons coconut aminos, soy sauce, or tamari: Balances salty notes in the dressing.
3 tablespoons pure honey: Adds a subtle sweetness to complement the tangy and savory flavors.
2 tablespoons toasted sesame oil: Key to that irresistible nutty flavor in the dressing.
2 teaspoons grated fresh ginger: Provides a fresh, spicy warmth.
1 (12-ounce) package coleslaw mix with red cabbage and carrots: A crunchy, colorful base for the salad.
2 cups cooked shredded chicken: Delivers hearty protein that pairs perfectly with the crisp veggies.
1 cup shelled edamame beans (thawed if frozen): Adds vibrant color and a satisfying bite.
1 avocado, peeled, pitted, and diced: Creamy texture to mellow the tangy dressing and crisp rice.
½ cup chopped fresh cilantro: Bright, herbal notes that lift the whole salad.
¼ cup sliced green onions (white/light green and dark green parts separated): Delicate onion flavor with an elegant garnish touch.
¼ cup chopped roasted peanuts (omit for nut free): Adds extra crunch and a touch of earthiness.

How to Make Crispy Rice Salad with Sesame Ginger Dressing and Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Crispy Rice

Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F. Pile the cooked rice in the center of a large baking sheet, then drizzle with sesame oil, coconut aminos, and sprinkle garlic powder over the rice. Mix everything together well to ensure every grain is seasoned. Spread it out evenly on the pan and gently press it down with a spatula. Bake for 18 minutes, tossing the rice halfway through to allow even crisping. Once done, set it aside to cool slightly.

Step 2: Whip Up the Sesame Ginger Dressing

While your rice crisps up, whisk together lime juice, coconut aminos, honey, toasted sesame oil, and grated fresh ginger in a small jar or glass measure. Shake or whisk vigorously until the honey is fully combined. This dressing is where the magic of sweet, tangy, and umami flavors converges to bring your salad to life.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad Components

In a large salad bowl, toss together the coleslaw mix, shredded chicken, thawed edamame, diced avocado, chopped cilantro, and the white and light green parts of the green onions. Add the crispy rice only now to keep it crunchy, then pour the dressing over everything. Toss gently but thoroughly so that each bite will be bursting with flavor.

Step 4: Finish and Serve

Top the salad with the dark green parts of the green onions and a sprinkle of chopped roasted peanuts for that irresistible final crunch. Serve immediately for the best texture and freshness, and prepare to wow your guests or family with a salad that’s anything but ordinary.

How to Serve Crispy Rice Salad with Sesame Ginger Dressing and Chicken Recipe

A large white bowl filled with a colorful mixed rice dish layered with light brown cooked rice, shredded white and purple cabbage, orange carrot strips, bright green edamame beans, and cubed avocado pieces on top. There are also some shredded light brown chicken pieces spread evenly throughout the dish, along with small green herbs and thinly sliced green onions sprinkled across. A wooden spoon rests inside the bowl on the right side. The bowl is placed on a white marbled surface with a small white bowl of green edamame beans blurred in the background. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Adding garnishes like extra chopped cilantro, toasted sesame seeds, or a drizzle of honey over the top can elevate the salad’s appearance and flavor complexity. They invite an additional crunch or burst of freshness that complements the main ingredients perfectly.

Side Dishes

This salad pairs beautifully with light sides like steamed vegetable dumplings, miso soup, or even a chilled cucumber salad. These lighter accompaniments won’t overpower the salad and help create a well-rounded meal full of diverse textures.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the Crispy Rice Salad with Sesame Ginger Dressing and Chicken Recipe in individual bowls topped with avocado slices or inside crispy lettuce cups for a fun handheld option. You can also layer it in a clear glass jar or bowl to showcase the vibrant colors and textures for a stunning presentation at potlucks and gatherings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Keep in mind that the crispy rice will lose some of its crunchiness after sitting, so this salad shines brightest when enjoyed fresh.

Freezing

This particular recipe doesn’t freeze well due to the freshness of the vegetables and the crispiness of the rice. Freezing may cause the salad to become soggy upon thawing, so it’s best to prepare it fresh or store leftovers in the fridge only.

Reheating

If you want to reheat any portion, separate the salad components and gently warm the shredded chicken and rice in a skillet or microwave. Avoid reheating the entire salad tossed together to maintain a pleasant texture and freshness in the vegetables and dressing.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Absolutely! Brown rice adds extra nuttiness and fiber, but make sure it is cooked and cooled well before baking to get that perfect crisp texture.

Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?

Yes! Simply omit the chicken and add extra edamame or tofu for protein. The dressing and crispy rice remain just as delicious without meat.

What can I substitute for coconut aminos?

You can use regular soy sauce or tamari if you don’t have coconut aminos. Just adjust the amount slightly to taste since soy sauce may be saltier.

How do I keep the rice crispy longer?

Serve the salad immediately after tossing with the crispy rice to enjoy that satisfying crunch. Unfortunately, once dressed and refrigerated, the rice softens quickly.

Can I prepare parts of this salad ahead of time?

You can prep and store the dressing and cook the rice and chicken ahead, but it’s best to combine everything just before serving to maintain texture and freshness.

Final Thoughts

This Crispy Rice Salad with Sesame Ginger Dressing and Chicken Recipe is a stunning combination of crunchy, tender, and zingy, all in one bowl. It’s the kind of dish that feels special but is surprisingly simple to pull together. I encourage you to give it a try — it might just become your new go-to salad to impress family, friends, or even yourself on a busy weeknight.

Crispy Rice Salad with Sesame Ginger Dressing and Chicken Recipe

Ingredients You'll Need