Introduction

If you’re on a Weight Watchers (WW) program and craving something fresh, healthy, and full of flavor, look no further than this WW Asian Chicken Crunch Salad. It combines lean protein, vibrant veggies, and a tangy dressing that packs a punch, all while keeping the SmartPoints low. Perfect for meal prepping, this salad is not only satisfying but also incredibly nutritious.

Packed with protein from grilled chicken breast and fiber from fresh veggies, this salad is ideal for lunch, dinner, or even as a snack. The crunchy texture from the vegetables and the addition of the low-calorie, Asian-inspired dressing will make your taste buds come alive while keeping your WW SmartPoints in check. This recipe serves up a delightful balance of crunchy, savory, and sweet flavors without feeling heavy, making it the perfect addition to your healthy meal rotation.

Why This Salad Is Perfect for WW

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle while tracking your SmartPoints can sometimes be a challenge, especially when craving a crunchy, satisfying dish. The WW Asian Chicken Crunch Salad is designed to give you a filling meal with a variety of textures, and it delivers on taste without compromising your points. With a base of leafy greens, grilled chicken breast, and a delicious homemade dressing, this salad keeps the focus on nutritious ingredients and portion control, helping you stay within your daily SmartPoints budget.

The Health Benefits

This salad is loaded with high-quality protein, healthy fats, and plenty of fiber, which makes it a great option for weight loss or maintaining a balanced diet. The fresh vegetables not only add a variety of colors to your plate but are rich in essential vitamins and minerals that support your overall well-being. This salad is also heart-healthy, as it incorporates healthy fats from the sesame oil and almond slices. As a bonus, this dish is gluten-free, dairy-free, and can be easily adapted to suit various dietary preferences.

Ingredients

This recipe makes 4 servings, and each serving is a generous portion that will fill you up without adding too many SmartPoints. Let’s take a look at the ingredients you’ll need for this Asian-inspired chicken crunch salad.

For the Salad:

  • 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb total)
    Chicken is the primary source of lean protein in this dish.
  • 6 cups of mixed greens (e.g., baby spinach, arugula, and romaine lettuce) Use any greens you like, or a mix of your favorites for added variety.
  • 1 cup of shredded red cabbage
    Red cabbage adds both color and a satisfying crunch.
  • 1 medium carrot, julienned or shredded
    Carrot gives the salad a hint of sweetness and more crunch.
  • 1/2 cucumber, thinly sliced
    Cucumber provides hydration and a cool contrast to the other flavors.
  • 1/2 cup of red bell pepper, julienned
    Red bell pepper adds a mild sweetness and a vibrant color.
  • 1/4 cup of sliced almonds
    Almonds add a nutty flavor and extra crunch.
  • 2 tablespoons of sesame seeds
    Sesame seeds contribute a bit of nuttiness and a pop of texture.
  • 1/4 cup of fresh cilantro, chopped
    Cilantro adds a refreshing herbaceous note.

For the Dressing:

  • 2 tablespoons of low-sodium soy sauce
    Soy sauce adds a salty umami flavor while keeping sodium levels in check.
  • 1 tablespoon of rice vinegar
    Rice vinegar brings a slightly sweet and tangy flavor to the dressing.
  • 1 tablespoon of sesame oil
    Sesame oil adds depth of flavor with a rich, toasty taste.
  • 1 teaspoon of honey or maple syrup
    A small amount of sweetener to balance the flavors without adding too many calories.
  • 1 teaspoon of freshly grated ginger
    Ginger provides a zingy, aromatic flavor that complements the sesame oil.
  • 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
    Garlic powder adds a mild, savory depth to the dressing.
  • 1/4 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
    Add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick if you like heat in your salad.

Nutritional Information (per serving):

  • Calories: 220 kcal
  • Fat: 13g
  • Carbohydrates: 10g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Net Carbs: 7g
  • Protein: 26g
  • Sugars: 6g
  • Sodium: 510mg

Weight Watchers SmartPoints:

  • Green Plan: 4 SmartPoints per serving
  • Blue Plan: 3 SmartPoints per serving
  • Purple Plan: 2 SmartPoints per serving

(Note: SmartPoints values are based on specific brands and ingredient choices. Always double-check your own ingredients if using a different brand or substitute.)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by seasoning the chicken breasts. Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and a pinch of garlic powder. For extra flavor, you can marinate the chicken in a small amount of soy sauce for about 20 minutes before cooking. This will give it a deeper umami flavor.

To cook the chicken, heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Lightly coat it with cooking spray or a teaspoon of olive oil to prevent sticking. Cook the chicken breasts for 5-7 minutes per side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing it into thin strips or bite-sized cubes.

Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables

While the chicken is cooking, prep your vegetables. Slice the cucumber and red bell pepper, shred the cabbage, and julienne the carrot. The aim is to have everything sliced and ready to go, as this will help the salad come together quickly.

For the mixed greens, you can use a pre-packaged salad mix, or tear your own lettuce into bite-sized pieces. The crunchier, the better! Feel free to mix up the types of lettuce or add some napa cabbage for a more authentic Asian crunch.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the low-sodium soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, honey (or maple syrup), grated ginger, garlic powder, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Taste and adjust the sweetness or saltiness to your preference. You may add a bit more honey for sweetness or an extra dash of soy sauce for a saltier kick.

For a more uniform dressing, you can blend everything in a small food processor or shake it in a jar with a tight lid. This dressing will last in the fridge for up to a week, making it perfect for meal prepping.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad

In a large salad bowl, toss together the mixed greens, shredded red cabbage, julienned carrots, cucumber, and red bell pepper. Add the sliced chicken on top, followed by the sliced almonds, sesame seeds, and fresh cilantro.

When you’re ready to serve, drizzle the salad with the prepared dressing. Gently toss everything to coat the ingredients evenly. You can also reserve a little dressing to drizzle over the salad just before serving, allowing everyone to add as much or as little as they like.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Serve the salad immediately for a crunchy, fresh experience, or refrigerate for 30 minutes for a chilled version. This salad makes an excellent standalone meal or pairs well with a side of low-carb rice or cauliflower rice if you’re looking to make it a more substantial dish.

Variations:

  • Vegetarian Version: Skip the chicken and add tofu for a plant-based option. Tofu will absorb the flavors of the dressing wonderfully.
  • Extra Protein: Add edamame or chickpeas for additional protein if you want a more filling salad.
  • Extra Crunch: If you want even more crunch, top your salad with some crispy fried shallots or roasted peanuts.

Storage Tips:

This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, store the chicken, veggies, and dressing separately to prevent the salad from getting soggy. Keep the salad mix in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days, while the dressing can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Why You’ll Love This Salad

This WW Asian Chicken Crunch Salad is a perfect combination of fresh vegetables, protein, and healthy fats. It is the ideal dish for meal prepping because it holds up well in the fridge, making it a convenient option for busy days. The flavor-packed dressing adds a punch of authenticity, making it feel like you’re eating a gourmet dish without any guilt. Each serving provides a solid amount of lean protein, ensuring you feel satisfied without overindulging.

Conclusion

The WW Asian Chicken Crunch Salad is the ideal choice for anyone looking to enjoy a flavorful, low-calorie, and low-SmartPoints meal. The bright, fresh ingredients come together in this salad to provide a satisfying meal that supports your WW goals without leaving you feeling deprived. Whether you’re following a specific diet or simply aiming to eat healthier, this salad is a perfect addition to your meal rotation. Enjoy the balance of protein, veggies, and a rich dressing that will make you crave salads for days to come!