How to Make a Delicious Chicken Spinach Cabbage Salad
Introduction
Looking for a healthy, satisfying, and flavorful salad? This chicken spinach cabbage salad combines tender chicken, crisp cabbage, and fresh spinach into a protein-packed, fiber-rich meal. Whether you need a light lunch, a nutritious dinner, or a meal prep idea, this salad checks all the boxes—easy, colorful, and incredibly tasty!
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Salad:
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast (grilled, boiled, or shredded)
- 1½ cups fresh spinach leaves (washed)
- 1 cup shredded green or purple cabbage
- ½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- ¼ red onion, thinly sliced
- ½ cucumber, chopped
- 1 small carrot, grated
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds or crushed nuts (optional, for crunch)
For the Dressing:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp lemon juice or apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional)
- Salt & pepper to taste
- ½ tsp honey or maple syrup (for balance)
👨🍳 How to Make Chicken Spinach Cabbage Salad
🔹 Step 1: Cook the Chicken
If not using pre-cooked chicken:
- Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and a little garlic powder.
- Grill or boil until fully cooked (internal temp: 165°F / 74°C).
- Let cool, then slice or shred.
🔹 Step 2: Prep the Vegetables
- Wash and dry all fresh veggies.
- Shred the cabbage using a sharp knife or mandoline.
- Chop spinach if needed, slice onion, halve tomatoes, grate carrots, and chop cucumber.
🔹 Step 3: Make the Dressing
In a small bowl or jar:
- Combine olive oil, lemon juice, mustard, honey, salt, and pepper.
- Whisk well or shake the jar to emulsify.
🔹 Step 4: Assemble the Salad
- In a large salad bowl, combine the spinach, cabbage, tomatoes, cucumber, onion, and carrot.
- Add the cooked chicken on top.
- Drizzle with the dressing.
- Toss gently to coat everything evenly.
🔹 Step 5: Garnish & Serve
Top with sesame seeds, nuts, or a sprinkle of parmesan for added crunch and flavor.
Serve immediately or chill for 10–15 minutes to enhance flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Salad
Pro Tips
- For extra creaminess, add avocado or a spoon of Greek yogurt on top.
- Want it spicy? Add sliced jalapeños or crushed chili flakes.
- Swap lemon juice with balsamic vinegar for a richer flavor twist.
- Make it a meal prep star: store undressed salad and dressing separately.
Conclusion
This chicken spinach cabbage salad is not just healthy—it’s flavorful, balanced, and satisfying. It brings together tender chicken, crunchy vegetables, and a zesty dressing to create a dish you’ll want to enjoy again and again. Make it today for a lunch that fuels your body and keeps your taste buds happy.
FAQs
🔸 Can I use leftover rotisserie chicken?
Yes! Shredded rotisserie chicken is a time-saving and flavorful option.
🔸 Can I make this salad in advance?
Yes. Keep the salad and dressing separate in the fridge. Mix just before eating.
🔸 What other veggies can I add?
Bell peppers, sweet corn, edamame, or beets go great in this salad.
🔸 Is this salad keto or low-carb?
Yes, it’s low in carbs. Just skip the honey if on a strict keto diet.
🔸 How long does it stay fresh?
Stored properly (undressed), it stays fresh for up to 2 days in the fridge.
🔸 Can I use canned chicken instead of cooked chicken breast?
Yes, canned chicken can be a quick alternative. Just drain it well and break it into small pieces before adding it to the salad.
🔸 What type of cabbage is best for this salad?
Both green cabbage and purple (red) cabbage work great. Purple cabbage adds a pop of color and extra antioxidants, while green cabbage is milder and more tender.
🔸 Can I make this salad vegan or vegetarian?
Absolutely. Swap the chicken with tofu, chickpeas, or grilled tempeh for a vegetarian/vegan version. You can also use plant-based dressings.
🔸 Is this salad good for weight loss?
Yes! It’s low in calories, high in protein and fiber, and keeps you full longer—ideal for a balanced weight-loss meal plan.
🔸 How can I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep the dressing separate to maintain freshness and texture.
🔸 Can I add cheese to this salad?
Yes, adding feta, parmesan, or shredded mozzarella works well. It adds flavor and creaminess.
🔸 What type of chicken is best—grilled, boiled, or shredded?
All three work. Grilled chicken adds a smoky flavor, boiled is tender and neutral, and shredded chicken blends easily with other ingredients.
🔸 Can I add fruits like apples or cranberries?
Yes! Chopped apples, dried cranberries, or orange segments pair beautifully with spinach and cabbage and add natural sweetness.
🔸 Is this salad suitable for diabetics?
Yes, it’s low in carbs and sugar (especially if you omit the honey). Just monitor portion sizes and ingredients as per your dietary needs.
