June 29, 2026 · 10 min

Spicy Gochujang Chicken Salad with Chili-Roasted Broccoli and Cranberries

Dessert10 min2358 cal / serving

Forget everything you know about traditional chicken salad. This version is a flavor-packed fusion of tender chicken, crisp bok choy and napa cabbage, all tossed in a creamy gochujang dressing that brings tangy heat. Chili-roasted broccoli adds a smoky crunch, while dried cranberries and sliced almonds provide sweet and nutty pops throughout.

This dish comes together quickly, making it perfect for a busy weeknight. The oven does most of the work roasting the broccoli with Korean chili flakes, while you whisk together the dressing and prep the greens. Serve it as a main course or a hearty side-either way, it’s a salad party you’ll want to join.


Recipe details

Dessert10 min2358 cal / serving2 servings

Nutrition per serving

Calories2358 kcalProtein38.9 gFat222.1 gCarbs30.3 gSugar7.6 gFiber5.3 gSodium751 mg

Dietary labels

Gluten-free: noLactose-free: yesDairy-free: yes

Allergen check

Gluten / wheat: containsMilk / dairy: not detectedEgg: containsFish: containsShellfish: not detectedPeanut: not detectedTree nuts: containsSoy: containsSesame: not detectedMustard: not detectedCelery: not detectedSulphites: not detectedLupin: not detectedMolluscs: not detected

Values are calculated per serving from ingredient amounts and the ingredient nutrition reference per 100g. Allergen and diet labels use available ingredient metadata and name matching; always check product labels for strict diets or allergies. Some ingredient amounts or nutrition values were incomplete, so this is marked as a partial estimate.


Ingredients

Ponzu Sauce6 milliliters Ponzu SauceView ingredient guide
Rice Wine Vinegar5 teaspoon Rice Wine VinegarView ingredient guide
Broccoli8 ounce BroccoliView ingredient guide
Dried Cranberries1 ounce Dried CranberriesView ingredient guide
Mayonnaise2 tablespoon MayonnaiseView ingredient guide
Scallions2 unit ScallionsView ingredient guide
Garlic Powder1 teaspoon Garlic PowderView ingredient guide
Sliced Almonds0.5 ounce Sliced AlmondsView ingredient guide
Gochujang Sauce0.5 ounce Gochujang SauceView ingredient guide
Saltteaspoon (tsp) SaltView ingredient guide
Black Pepperteaspoon (tsp) Black PepperView ingredient guide

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Cut the broccoli into small florets. Toss with 2 tablespoons cooking oil, Korean chili flakes and a pinch of salt and pepper. Spread in a single layer on the baking sheet.
  3. Roast the broccoli for 15-18 minutes, until tender and lightly charred. Set aside to cool slightly.
  4. Meanwhile, in a small bowl, whisk together the gochujang sauce, ponzu sauce, rice wine vinegar, mayonnaise and garlic powder until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  5. Thinly slice the scallions. Roughly chop the bok choy and napa cabbage into bite-sized pieces.
  6. In a large bowl, combine the chopped chicken breast, bok choy and napa cabbage and half the scallions. Pour the dressing over and toss to coat evenly.
  7. Add the roasted broccoli, dried cranberries and sliced almonds. Gently toss to combine.
  8. Divide the salad among plates or serve in a large bowl. Garnish with the remaining scallions. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 days.

Recipe Tips

For extra crunch, toast the sliced almonds in a dry pan over medium heat for 2-3 minutes before adding.

If you prefer a milder heat, reduce the Korean chili flakes to 1/2 teaspoon.

This salad keeps well in the fridge for up to 2 days-perfect for meal prep.

FAQ

Can I use a different protein instead of chicken?

Yes, you can substitute cooked shrimp, tofu or shredded pork. Adjust cooking time as needed.

What can I substitute for gochujang?

You can use sriracha or another chili paste mixed with a little miso or soy sauce for a similar flavor profile.

Is this salad served warm or cold?

It can be served either way. The roasted broccoli is best warm, but the salad is also delicious chilled.

DandyRecipes community

Rate and discuss this recipe

Your rating and comments help other DandyRecipes readers decide what to cook next.

Your recipe vote

No DandyRecipes user votes yet.

Recipe comments

0 DandyRecipes comments

No DandyRecipes comments yet.

More recipe ideas

12 similar recipes you might like

These suggestions are based on shared ingredients, meal type, and recipe metadata.