Asian Sesame Chicken Salad Recipe A Flavorful Nutritious Delight

If you’re looking for a light yet satisfying meal that’s packed with bold flavors, the Asian Sesame Chicken Salad might just be your next go-to recipe.

With protein from the chicken, healthy fats from sesame oil, and a variety of fresh vegetables, this salad ticks all the right boxes for a balanced meal. Ready to dive into this flavorful dish? Let’s break it down step by step.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This salad can be whipped up in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a speedy lunch.

Packed with lean protein, fresh veggies, and healthy fats, this salad is filling without being heavy. You can easily swap ingredients to suit your preferences, whether it’s changing the protein, adding more veggies, or adjusting the dressing.

Make it ahead of time and enjoy a ready-to-eat, nutrient-packed meal for days. Light enough for summer yet hearty enough for cooler months, it’s an all-year-round favorite.

Ingredients for Asian Sesame Chicken Salad

For the Salad: 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, 4 cups mixed greens (lettuce, spinach, or arugula), 1 cup shredded purple cabbage, 1 carrot, julienned, 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced, 1 cucumber, sliced, 2 green onions, chopped, 1/4 cup cilantro, roughly chopped, 2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds, 1/4 cup slivered almonds (optional), 1/2 cup wonton strips (optional).

For the Dressing: 3 tablespoons sesame oil, 2 tablespoons rice vinegar, 1 tablespoon soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free), 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup, 1 garlic clove, minced, 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated, 1 tablespoon lime juice, 1 teaspoon sriracha (optional, for heat), Salt and pepper to taste. Optional Garnishes: Sesame seeds, Wonton strips, Sliced avocado, Extra cilantro.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Chicken: Start by cooking the chicken breasts. You can either grill, bake, or pan-fry them based on your preference. Grilling: Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with a pinch of salt and pepper. Grill for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F).

Baking: Preheat the oven to 375°F. Season the chicken with salt and pepper, then bake on a lined sheet for 20-25 minutes or until fully cooked through. Pan-frying: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken, then cook for 6-8 minutes per side until browned and cooked through.

Once the chicken is done, let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing it into thin strips or shredding it. This ensures the juices stay in the meat, keeping it tender and flavorful. While the chicken is cooking, prepare the vegetables. Slice the bell pepper, julienne the carrot, shred the cabbage, and chop the green onions and cilantro. Set these ingredients aside in a large bowl.

Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together all the dressing ingredients: sesame oil, rice vinegar, soy sauce, honey, garlic, ginger, lime juice, and sriracha (if using).

Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. The dressing should be balanced with a mix of salty, tangy, and sweet flavors. If you prefer it spicier, add more sriracha.

Assemble the Salad

In a large mixing bowl, combine the mixed greens, shredded cabbage, carrot, bell pepper, cucumber, green onions, and cilantro. Toss everything together so that the vegetables are evenly distributed.

Once your chicken has cooled slightly and been sliced or shredded, add it to the salad mixture. Gently toss everything together again.

Pour the sesame dressing over the salad and toss until all the ingredients are evenly coated. You want the dressing to enhance the flavors without overwhelming them.

Garnish and Serve

Transfer the salad to a large serving platter or individual bowls. Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and slivered almonds for extra crunch. If you like, add wonton strips on top for added texture.

You can also garnish with extra cilantro or even avocado slices for a creamy contrast.

Customization Ideas

This salad is highly versatile, so feel free to make it your own by switching up the ingredients. Try shrimp, tofu, or even grilled steak instead of chicken.

Radishes, edamame, or snap peas would be excellent additions. Swap out the chicken for tofu and the honey in the dressing for maple syrup.

Add more sriracha to the dressing or sprinkle some chili flakes on top for extra heat. Skip the wonton strips and add more greens or veggies to keep it low-carb.

Tips for the Perfect Asian Sesame Chicken Salad

Marinate the Chicken: For an extra flavor boost, marinate the chicken in some soy sauce, garlic, and sesame oil for 30 minutes before cooking.

Use Fresh Ginger and Garlic: Fresh ingredients will make a huge difference in the dressing, giving it a bright, authentic flavor.

Toasting the sesame seeds enhances their nutty flavor, so don’t skip this step! You can prepare the chicken, chop the veggies, and mix the dressing ahead of time. Just store everything separately and toss together when ready to serve.

To avoid soggy salad, add the dressing right before you plan to eat it.

Nutritional Benefits of Asian Sesame Chicken Salad

This salad isn’t just about flavor – it’s a powerhouse of nutrition too! Chicken provides lean protein, which helps in muscle repair and keeps you full for longer.

The colorful veggies like bell peppers, cabbage, and carrots are rich in vitamins A and C, essential for immune function and skin health. Sesame oil, almonds, and sesame seeds are excellent sources of healthy fats that support heart health.

If you’re watching your carb intake, this salad is a great option, especially if you omit the wonton strips. The variety of vegetables ensures a good intake of fiber, aiding digestion and keeping you satisfied.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this salad ahead of time? Yes! You can prep the vegetables and dressing ahead of time, but it’s best to keep the dressing separate until just before serving to avoid soggy greens.

Can I use store-bought dressing instead of making my own? You can, but the homemade dressing is what gives this salad its unique flavor. If you’re in a pinch, look for an Asian sesame or ginger dressing with simple ingredients.

How long will leftovers last? If stored properly in an airtight container, this salad will stay fresh for up to 2-3 days. However, it’s best enjoyed the day it’s made, especially if you’ve added wonton strips or crunchy toppings.

What other proteins can I use besides chicken? Shrimp, tofu, or beef are great alternatives that work well with the sesame dressing. You can also use rotisserie chicken for a quicker option.

The Asian Sesame Chicken Salad is the perfect combination of fresh, vibrant ingredients and bold, zesty flavors.

Whether you’re enjoying it as a healthy meal prep option, a quick lunch, or a light dinner, this salad offers the perfect balance of textures and tastes. And with endless customization possibilities, it’s easy to make it your own.