Easy Oriental Chicken Salad with Homemade Dijon Dressing

A crisp, flavorful salad topped with crispy chicken and tossed in a creamy homemade honey Dijon dressing. This easy dinner is perfect for warm summer evenings and comes together in about 30 minutes.

When the weather is hot, the last thing I want is a heavy meal or a kitchen that feels like an oven. This Oriental Chicken Salad has become one of our favorite summer dinners because it’s fresh, filling, and incredibly easy to put together.

If you’ve ever enjoyed Applebee’s Oriental Salad, you’ll love this easy homemade version. We keep it simple by using frozen breaded chicken tenders and making the dressing from scratch. The homemade honey Dijon dressing is creamy, slightly sweet, and ties everything together beautifully.

It’s one of those meals that feels like a restaurant treat but is easy enough for a busy weeknight. Cool, crunchy, and packed with flavor, it’s a recipe we come back to again and again during the summer months.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ready in about 30 minutes
• Perfect for warm summer evenings
• Homemade dressing that’s creamy, tangy,
• Easy enough for busy weeknights but special enough for company.

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Ingredients

For the Salad

• 1 large head romaine lettuce, chopped
• 2 cups coleslaw mix
• 4-5 frozen breaded chicken tenders, cooked and sliced
• 1/2 cup sliced almonds

Optional additions:

• Mandarin oranges
• Sliced green onions
• Sesame seeds

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Homemade Honey Dijon Dressing

• 3/4 cup mayo
• 2 T Honey
• 11/2 T Dijon mustard
• 1/4 cup rice vinegar
• 1 T sesame oil

Whisk until smooth and refrigerate until ready to use.

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How to Make Oriental Chicken Salad

Step 1

Bake breaded chicken tenders according to the package directions until they’re golden brown and crispy. Let them cool for a few minutes before slicing into bite-sized pieces.

Step 2

While the chicken cooks, whisk together the mayo, honey mustard, rice vinegar, and sesame oil until smooth and creamy. Place the dressing in the refrigerator while you prepare the salad.

Step 3

In a large salad bowl, combine the chopped romaine lettuce, coleslaw mix. sliced almonds. and crispy chow mein noodles.

Step 4

Top the salad with the sliced crispy chicken

Step 5

Drizzle the homemade honey Dijon dressing over the salad and toss gently until everything is evenly coated.

Serve immediately while the chicken is still warm and the vegetables are crisp.

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Tips for Success

• Air fry the chicken tenders for extra crispiness.
• Chill the dressing before serving for the best flavor.
• Wait to add the dressing until just before serving to keep the lettuce crisp.
• Toast the sliced almonds for an extra layer of flavor.
• If serving guests, place the dressing on the side so everyone can add as much as they’d like.

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Variations

• Substitute grilled chicken for a lighter meal.
• Add mandarin oranges for a touch of sweetness.
• Sprinkle with sesame seeds for extra crunch.
• Add shredded carrots or red cabbage for more color.

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Storage

Store the salad and dressing separately if you expect leftovers.

The homemade dressing will keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.

Once the salad has been dressed, it’s best enjoyed the same day.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! Prep the lettuce, make the dressing, and cook the chicken ahead of time. Store everything separately and assemble just before serving.

Can I use grilled chicken instead?

Absolutely. Grilled chicken breast or thighs are a delicious option if you prefer a lighter version.

What should I serve with Oriental Chicken Salad?

This salad is hearty enough to be a meal on its own, but it also pairs well with fresh fruit, iced tea, or warm rolls.

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From My Kitchen

Some of our favorite family meals are the ones that don’t require much planning. On warm evenings when no one feels like standing over the stove, this salad is always a welcome dinner. The crisp vegetables, crunchy noodles warm chicken, and homemade dressing come together in a way that feels both comforting and fresh.

It’s proof that dinner doesn’t have to be complicated to be something everyone looks forward to.

from my hearth to yours,
Becky

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