Chinese Chicken Salad with Dates (Paleo, Gluten Free)

My Love Affair with Chinese Chicken Salad

I’ve been absolutely obsessed with Chinese chicken salad ever since I discovered how to make it both healthy and incredibly delicious at home. There’s something magical about the combination of crisp vegetables, tender chicken, and that perfect sweet-savory dressing that makes this dish irresistible. What started as a quest to recreate my favorite restaurant salad turned into creating this amazing paleo and gluten-free version that’s become a weekly staple in my kitchen.

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The beauty of this Chinese chicken salad with dates lies in its simplicity and incredible flavor profile. I use Natural Delights® pitted medjool dates both in the salad itself and as the natural sweetener in my homemade sesame dressing. These dates are not only delicious but also packed with fiber and antioxidants, making this salad as nutritious as it is satisfying.

What makes this recipe special is how it transforms simple, wholesome ingredients into something that tastes like it came from an upscale restaurant. The dates add a natural sweetness that perfectly balances the umami-rich dressing, while the mix of textures from crunchy almonds, crisp vegetables, and tender chicken creates the most satisfying bite.

Why This Recipe Works So Well

I’ve served this salad to countless friends and family members, and it never fails to impress. The combination of being paleo-friendly and gluten-free means everyone can enjoy it, regardless of their dietary restrictions. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile – I’ve made it for meal prep, potluck dinners, and even as a light lunch option.

The prep time is minimal, which is perfect for those busy weeknight dinners when you want something healthy and delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. Most of the ingredients can be prepped in advance, making assembly quick and easy when you’re ready to eat.

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Recipe Timing:

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes (if cooking chicken fresh)
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Difficulty: Easy

Complete Ingredients Breakdown

Sesame Dressing Ingredients

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Dressing (Start Here!):

1. Add all dressing ingredients to your blender, starting with the softest ingredients first. I always put the dates in first and let them soak in the liquids for about 5 minutes while I prep the salad ingredients.
2. This soaking step is crucial – it ensures the dates blend completely smooth without any chunks. Trust me, I learned this the hard way after getting bits of dates in my first attempt!

Preparing the Salad:

1. While the dates are soaking, prepare all your salad ingredients. I like to chop my romaine lettuce into bite-sized pieces and shred my red cabbage and carrots using a food processor to save time.
2. Cube your cooked chicken into uniform pieces – about 1/2 inch cubes work perfectly. If you’re using leftover rotisserie chicken like I often do, just remove the skin and shred or chop as desired.
3. Finely chop your Natural Delights® medjool dates and green onions. The dates should be small enough to distribute evenly throughout the salad.

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Assembly:

1. Combine all salad ingredients (except sesame seeds) in a large mixing bowl. I use my biggest salad bowl to ensure everything can be tossed easily.
2. Blend the dressing until completely smooth and creamy. The mixture should be well combined with no visible date pieces.
3. Pour the sesame dressing over the salad and toss thoroughly until everything is evenly coated. The dressing should coat all ingredients without pooling at the bottom.
4. Sprinkle with sesame seeds if using, and serve immediately for the best texture and crunch.

Pro Tip: I always taste the salad after dressing and adjust seasoning if needed. Sometimes I’ll add a pinch more salt or a squeeze of fresh lime juice to brighten the flavors.

My Best Tips for Perfect Chinese Chicken Salad

After making this recipe dozens of times, I’ve discovered several tricks that make all the difference. First, always prep your vegetables as close to serving time as possible to maintain maximum crispness. I’ve found that wet vegetables dilute the dressing and make the salad soggy.

When it comes to the chicken, I prefer using a mix of white and dark meat for the best flavor and texture. Rotisserie chicken is my go-to shortcut, but if you’re cooking fresh chicken, season it well with salt and pepper before cooking.

The secret to an amazing dressing is letting those dates soften properly. I sometimes add a tablespoon of warm water to help them break down if they’re particularly firm. The dressing can be made up to three days in advance and stored in the refrigerator – just give it a good shake before using.

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Delicious Variations I Love

Protein Swaps: I’ve successfully made this salad with grilled shrimp, leftover pork tenderloin, and even crispy tofu for a vegetarian version. Each protein brings its own unique flavor profile to the dish.

Nut and Seed Options: While sliced almonds are traditional, I’ve experimented with chopped cashews, sunflower seeds, and even crushed macadamia nuts. Each adds a different texture and flavor dimension.

Vegetable Additions: Sometimes I add thinly sliced bell peppers, cucumber, or snap peas for extra crunch and color. Mandarin orange segments also make a beautiful and delicious addition.

Spice Level: For those who enjoy heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes in the dressing or some sliced jalapeños in the salad adds a nice kick.

Storage and Meal Prep Tips

This salad is fantastic for meal prep, but I recommend storing the components separately. I keep the dressed salad vegetables in one container and the chicken in another, then combine them when ready to eat. The dressing stays fresh in the refrigerator for up to a week.

For best results, add the dressing just before serving to maintain the crispest texture. If you need to dress the salad in advance, consume it within a few hours for optimal freshness.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I substitute the coconut aminos with regular soy sauce?
A: Absolutely! While coconut aminos keep this recipe paleo and gluten-free, you can use regular soy sauce or tamari in equal amounts. The flavor will be slightly more intense, so start with 2 tablespoons and adjust to taste.

Q: How do I prevent the salad from getting soggy?
A: The key is ensuring all vegetables are completely dry after washing and chopping. I use a salad spinner for the lettuce and pat everything dry with paper towels. Also, dress the salad just before serving, or store the dressing separately if meal prepping.

Q: Can I make this salad ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can prep all the ingredients up to 24 hours in advance. Store the chopped vegetables and chicken separately from the dressing, then combine everything just before serving for the best texture and flavor.

Q: What’s the best substitute for medjool dates?
A: If you can’t find medjool dates, regular pitted dates work well, though you might need to soak them longer to soften. Alternatively, you can use 2-3 tablespoons of maple syrup or honey in the dressing, though this will change the flavor profile slightly.

Q: How long does this salad keep in the refrigerator?
A: The undressed salad components will keep for 2-3 days in the refrigerator. Once dressed, consume within 24 hours for the best quality. The dressing alone will keep for up to one week stored separately.

Q: Can I add other vegetables to this salad?
A: Definitely! This recipe is very flexible. I’ve added snap peas, bell peppers, cucumber, and bean sprouts with great success. Just maintain the balance of textures and don’t add anything too watery that might dilute the dressing.

This Chinese chicken salad with dates has become one of my most requested recipes, and I hope it becomes a favorite in your kitchen too. The combination of healthy ingredients, incredible flavors, and easy preparation makes it perfect for any occasion!

Chinese Chicken Salad with Dates

A healthy, paleo, and gluten-free Chinese chicken salad with a delicious sesame dressing, dates for sweetness, and a mix of crunchy vegetables.

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 25 minutes mins

Servings: 4 Servings

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: Asian, Chinese

Calories: 350

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 2 cups cooked chicken cubed, about 2lb raw
• 4 cups romaine lettuce chopped into bite-sized pieces
• 1 cup red cabbage shredded
• 1 cup carrots shredded
• 1/2 cup sliced almonds lightly toasted
• 2 Natural Delights® medjool dates chopped, pitted
• 2 stalks green onions chopped, both white and green parts
• Sesame seeds optional, for garnish
• Sesame Dressing Ingredients:
• 2 pitted Natural Delights® medjool dates soaked for blending
• 3 tbsp coconut aminos soy sauce substitute
• 3 tbsp rice vinegar
• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil high-quality preferred
• 1 tbsp toasted sesame oil
• 1 garlic clove peeled
• 1/2 inch piece fresh ginger peeled and roughly chopped
• 1/2 tsp ground black pepper freshly ground preferred
• 1/4 tsp sea salt adjust to taste

Method

 

1. Prepare the Dressing:
2. Add all dressing ingredients to your blender, starting with the softest ingredients first. Let the dates soak in the liquids for about 5 minutes while you prep the salad ingredients. Blend until completely smooth and creamy.
3. Prepare the Salad:
4. While the dates are soaking, chop the romaine lettuce, shred the red cabbage and carrots using a food processor. Cube the chicken into uniform pieces. Chop the dates and green onions.
5. Assemble the Salad:
6. Combine all salad ingredients (except sesame seeds) in a large mixing bowl. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss thoroughly until everything is evenly coated. The dressing should coat the ingredients without pooling at the bottom.
7. Serve:
8. Sprinkle sesame seeds over the top if using and serve immediately for the best texture and crunch.

Notes

For a quick and easy option, use leftover rotisserie chicken.

You can make the dressing up to 3 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just shake well before using.

If you can’t find medjool dates, regular pitted dates work well, though they may need longer soaking.

Store the undressed salad components separately for meal prep. Dress the salad just before serving to maintain maximum crispness.

This salad is versatile; add vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, or cucumbers for extra crunch and color.