20 Universal Cafe San Francisco Chinese Chicken Salad Recipe Cook Up Something Special!
Published on: Mar 25, 2024
The Universal Cafe in San Francisco is known for its delicious and unique Chinese chicken salad. This popular dish has become a signature item on their menu and is loved by locals and tourists alike. The perfect combination of fresh, crunchy vegetables and tender chicken makes this salad a refreshing and satisfying meal. But what makes this salad stand out from others? Let's take a closer look at the universal cafe San Francisco Chinese chicken salad recipe and discover its secrets.
If you're craving a fresh and flavorful dish that's packed with protein and veggies, look no further than Chinese chicken salad. This vibrant and satisfying meal is perfect for lunch or dinner and can be easily customized to suit your taste preferences.
The key to a delicious Chinese chicken salad is the combination of crunchy vegetables, tender chicken, and a tangy dressing. You can use any type of greens you like, such as romaine lettuce, cabbage, or mixed greens. For an extra boost of nutrition, try adding in some shredded carrots, bell peppers, or snap peas.
If you're short on time but still want to enjoy a delicious Chinese chicken salad, try this easy recipe. Simply toss together some pre-packaged coleslaw mix, grilled chicken breast, and a homemade vinaigrette dressing. The coleslaw mix provides the perfect combination of cabbage and carrots, while the vinaigrette adds a tangy and slightly sweet flavor.
For a bit of crunch and extra protein, you can also top the salad with some toasted slivered almonds or crispy chow mein noodles. This simple yet satisfying salad is sure to become a go-to meal in your household.
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Chinese Chicken Salad with Vinaigrette Dressing
Main Ingredients: Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts, Kosher Salt, Fresh
If you love the combination of sweet and tangy flavors, then this Chinese chicken salad with vinaigrette dressing is the perfect choice for you. The homemade dressing is made with soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, and sesame oil, giving it a delicious balance of flavors.
To add some extra protein and texture, try topping the salad with some grilled shrimp or tofu cubes. You can also add in some mandarin oranges or crunchy water chestnuts for an extra burst of flavor.
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Lighter Chinese Chicken Salad
Main Ingredients: Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts, Soy Sauce, Rice Wine
If you're looking for a healthier version of Chinese chicken salad, try this lighter recipe. Instead of using fried chow mein noodles, this version uses baked wonton strips to add some crunch. The dressing is also made with low-sodium soy sauce and honey instead of sugar.
To make this salad even more nutritious, you can swap out the usual chicken breast for grilled chicken thighs or shredded rotisserie chicken. You can also add in some edamame or quinoa for an extra boost of protein and fiber.
This Chinese chicken salad recipe is not only easy to make, but it's also incredibly yummy. The combination of crunchy cabbage, tender chicken, and a delicious dressing makes this salad a crowd-pleaser. Plus, it's perfect for meal prep since it can be made ahead of time and enjoyed throughout the week.
For a twist on the traditional recipe, try adding in some crispy fried wonton strips or crumbled ramen noodles for an extra crunch. You can also top the salad with some chopped peanuts or cashews for a nutty flavor.
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Chinese Chicken Salad with Sesame Ginger Dressing
Main Ingredients: Chicken Breasts, Peanut Oil, Kosher Salt, Pepper, Rice
If you're a fan of sesame ginger dressing, you'll love this Chinese chicken salad recipe. The homemade dressing is made with soy sauce, rice vinegar, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil, giving it a delicious Asian-inspired flavor. For a touch of sweetness, add in some honey or brown sugar.
For some added crunch and flavor, try topping the salad with some crispy wonton strips, toasted sesame seeds, or crushed peanuts. You can also add in some shredded red cabbage or chopped bell peppers for a pop of color.
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Keyword Chicken Salad, Chinese Chicken Salad, Chinese...
Main Ingredients: Wonton Skins, Canola Oil, Chunky Peanut Butter, Fresh
Chicken salad is a popular dish that can be found in many cuisines, but Chinese chicken salad takes it to a whole new level. This flavorful and nutritious dish is packed with fresh ingredients and can be easily customized to suit your taste preferences. Whether you prefer a tangy vinaigrette or a creamy dressing, there's a Chinese chicken salad recipe out there that's perfect for you.
For a unique twist on traditional Chinese chicken salad, try adding in some spicy Asian chili sauce or crispy fried wontons for an extra kick. You can also swap out the usual chicken for grilled shrimp or marinated tofu for a vegetarian option.
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Chrissy Teigen’s Chinese Chicken Salad
Main Ingredients: Wonton Wrappers, Vegetable Oil, Kosher Salt, Peanut
Celebrity cook Chrissy Teigen has her own version of Chinese chicken salad that is a must-try. Her recipe includes grilled chicken breast, Napa cabbage, and a homemade sesame dressing. She also adds in some edamame and crispy wonton strips for an extra boost of protein and crunch.
To put a unique spin on her recipe, try adding in some fresh mango slices or grilled pineapple chunks for a tropical twist. You can also top the salad with some chopped cilantro or green onions for a burst of freshness.
The Key Ingredients
Chicken
One of the main components of the Chinese chicken salad at Universal Cafe is, of course, the chicken. The recipe calls for poached chicken breasts which are then shredded into bite-sized pieces. This cooking method ensures that the chicken remains tender and moist, making it the perfect protein for this salad.
Vegetables
The salad is a medley of fresh and colorful vegetables, giving it a vibrant and appetizing appearance. Cabbage, carrots, and bell peppers are the stars of the show, providing a satisfying crunch and a burst of flavor. These vegetables are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients and antioxidants, making this salad a healthy choice.
Dressing
The key to the delicious flavor of this salad lies in its dressing. The secret ingredients in the dressing are sesame oil and rice vinegar, giving the salad a unique and Asian-inspired taste. The dressing also includes soy sauce, ginger, and garlic, adding depth and complexity to the flavor profile.
The Preparation
Marinating the Chicken
To infuse the chicken with flavor, it is marinated in a mixture of soy sauce, ginger, and garlic for at least an hour before cooking. This step is crucial in achieving the perfect balance of flavors in the final dish.
Assembling the Salad
The vegetables are thinly sliced and tossed together with the poached chicken and dressing. This allows the flavors to meld together and creates a cohesive and delicious salad.
The Final Touches
To add an extra crunch and flavor to the Chinese chicken salad, toasted almonds and crispy wonton strips are sprinkled on top. This adds a delightful texture and an irresistible nutty taste to the dish.
The End Result
The universal cafe San Francisco Chinese chicken salad is a refreshing and satisfying meal that is packed with flavor and nutrients. With its unique combination of ingredients and delicious dressing, this salad is a must-try for anyone visiting the cafe. And now, with the recipe revealed, you can recreate this iconic dish in the comfort of your own home. Enjoy!
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