Looking for an easy high protein salad to power your weight loss journey? This healthy high protein lunch combines tender shredded chicken, crisp cabbage, and a bold Korean-inspired spicy dressing into a quick, low-calorie dish. Perfect for high protein salad meal prep, it gives you a clean, delicious meal to pack for work or fuel your week without sacrificing flavor.
Video Credits
Original Creator:
古坂泰蔵
Prep time: 15 mins Cook time: 15 mins Total time: 30 mins Servings: 2 Difficulty: Easy
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
Calories: 380 kcal
Protein: 35g
Carbohydrates: 18g
Dietary Fiber: 6g
Fat: 18g
Ingredients
Chicken Breast Base:
Chicken breast (cut or shredded)
Salt and black pepper (for seasoning)
Cooking oil or spray
Vegetables & Greens:
Shredded cabbage (or green salad mix)
Thinly sliced cucumbers
Sliced green onions / scallions
Spicy Dressing:
Soy sauce (or low-sodium soy sauce)
Gochugaru (Korean chili flakes) or red chili flakes
Garlic (minced)
Sesame oil
Rice vinegar or lemon juice
Sesame seeds (for garnish)
Procedure
Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breast with salt and black pepper. Pan-fry, bake, or boil until fully cooked through, then slice or shred into bite-sized pieces.
Prepare the Vegetables: Thinly slice the cabbage, cucumbers, and green onions. Wash and drain thoroughly to keep the salad crisp.
Mix the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, Gochugaru (chili flakes), minced garlic, sesame oil, and rice vinegar until combined.
Assemble: Add the prepared chicken and vegetables into a large mixing bowl. Pour the spicy dressing over the ingredients.
Toss and Serve: Toss everything well until evenly coated. Garnish with toasted sesame seeds before serving.
Best Dishes to Serve Alongside
Steamed Brown Rice or Jasmine Rice: A small side of warm rice helps absorb the bold spicy dressing and makes the meal more filling.
Warm Vegetable Gyoza or Dumplings: Crispy or steamed dumplings offer a satisfying texture contrast and complement the Korean-inspired chili and sesame flavors.
Miso Soup: A light, warm broth balances the cold, crisp texture of the cabbage salad and provides a soothing start to the meal.
Edamame with Sea Salt: Steamed soy beans add extra plant-based protein and fiber while keeping the meal light and clean.
Asian Cucumber Roll-Ups or Spring Rolls: Fresh rice paper rolls filled with herbs and vegetables align perfectly with the refreshing, low-calorie profile of the dish.
Best Meal Pairings
Iced Green Tea or Jasmine Tea: Light and refreshing with zero calories, the clean taste cuts through the rich sesame oil and balances the bold chili spice.
Sparkling Water with Fresh Lime: Carbonated mineral water with a fresh lime squeeze neutralizes the heat of the Gochugaru and cleanses the palate.
Kombucha (Ginger or Lemon): Naturally probiotic with a tangy, slightly sweet kick that pairs exceptionally well with Korean-inspired spicy flavors.
Cold Brewed Barley Tea (Boricha): A staple pairing for spicy food that offers a smooth, nutty flavor while cooling down spice.
Steamed Brown Rice or Quinoa (Optional Side): If you need extra complex carbs to complete the meal, a small side bowl helps absorb the savory spicy dressing.
