Step 1

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.

Step 2

In a gallon size Ziploc bag or large bowl, combine chicken, soy sauce, sesame oil and pepper; marinate for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator.

Step 3

Add chicken and marinade to a baking dish. Place in oven and bake until cooked through- about 30 minutes. Let cool before cutting into bite-size pieces.

Step 4

Whisk together rice wine vinegar, garlic, sesame oil, sugar, ginger and soy sauce in a small bowl; set aside.

Step 5

TO MAKE SALAD: Place romaine lettuce in a large bowl; top with cabbage, carrots, green onion and chicken. Pour sesame vinaigrette on top of the salad and gently toss to combine.

Step 6

Serve immediately, topped with chow mein noodles and almonds, if desired.