CHINESE CHICKEN SALAD

Chinese Chicken Salad image

Provided by cookiedog

Time 1h45m

Yield 6 serving(s)

Number Of Ingredients 19

4 boneless skinless chicken breast halves (about 1 1/2 lbs. total)
3 tablespoons soy sauce
1 cup mayonnaise
1 tablespoon sugar
3 tablespoons rice wine vinegar
2 tablespoons sesame oil
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 pinch cayenne pepper
3 garlic cloves, chopped
1 inch piece fresh ginger, about 1 inch long, peeled and minced
1 bunch fresh cilantro leaves, leaves only (about 1 cup)
2 teaspoons butter
1/3 cup slivered almonds
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 head iceberg lettuce, chopped
3 medium carrots, peeled and grated
1 1/2 cups crisp chow mein noodles
1/3 cup toasted slivered almonds (or use 1/3 cup carmelized almonds from recipe above)
1 tablespoon sesame seeds, toasted

Steps:

To Poach the Chicken: Put the breasts in a medium saucepan with the soy sauce and just enough water to cover chicken. Bring to a boil, cover, and remove from the heat. Let stand, covered, for 30 minutes. Remove the chicken breasts from the poaching liquid and reserve the liquid for another use. Let the chicken cool, then tear the meat into bite-sized pieces.
To Make the Dressing: Combine the mayonnaise, sugar, vinegar, sesame oil, soy sauce, cayenne, garlic, ginger, and cilantro in a blender or food processor and puree until smooth. Refrigerate until ready to use.
Caramelized Almonds: Melt the butter in a small skillet over medium heat. Add the almonds and saute until golden, about 2 minutes. Add the brown sugar and stir to combine. Spread the almonds on a baking sheet, separating them. Set aside to cool. When completely cooled, the almonds will have a hard, candied coating.
To assemble the salad: In a large salad bowl, toss the chicken with the lettuce, carrots, noodles, and dressing. Top each serving with some of the caramelized almonds and sesame seeds.