When you’re craving a salad that’s vibrant, crisp, and packed with bold flavors, look no further than this Asian Sesame Chicken Salad. It’s the perfect balance of tender chicken, crunchy veggies, and a tangy-sweet sesame dressing. Whether you need a quick lunch, a refreshing dinner, or a crowd-pleasing potluck dish, this recipe is sure to impress. Let’s dive into making this colorful and healthy meal!
Ingredients You’ll Need
1. Cooked Chicken Breast – 2 cups (shredded or diced)
Chicken provides the protein that makes this salad satisfying. Rotisserie chicken works wonderfully for convenience.
2. Romaine Lettuce – 4 cups (chopped)
The crisp base of the salad, romaine lettuce, holds up well to the dressing without wilting.
3. Red Cabbage – 1 cup (thinly sliced)
Adds a vibrant purple hue and a crunchy texture to the salad. Slice it as thinly as possible for a delicate bite.
4. Carrots – 1 cup (julienned or shredded)
Carrots bring a natural sweetness and crunch. Use a julienne peeler or box grater for even strips.
5. Green Onions – 2 (sliced)
These add a mild oniony flavor that complements the dressing beautifully.
6. Mandarin Oranges – 1 cup (drained, if canned)
Sweet and juicy, mandarin oranges brighten the flavors of the salad. Fresh or canned both work.
7. Almonds – ¼ cup (sliced and toasted)
Toasted almonds provide a nutty crunch that pairs perfectly with the sesame flavors.
8. Sesame Seeds – 1 tablespoon
A sprinkle of sesame seeds enhances the Asian-inspired theme and adds a subtle nuttiness.
9. Crunchy Chow Mein Noodles – 1 cup
Optional, but these crispy noodles add an irresistible crunch to the salad.
10. Sesame Dressing – ½ cup
A tangy-sweet dressing made with soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, honey, and a touch of ginger is the heart of this recipe. (Recipe included below!)
How to Make Asian Sesame Chicken Salad
Step 1: Prepare the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together:
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 1 teaspoon garlic (minced)
Taste and adjust the sweetness or tanginess to your liking. Set aside.
Step 2: Assemble the Salad Base
In a large salad bowl, combine the chopped romaine lettuce, red cabbage, carrots, and green onions. Toss gently to mix the vegetables evenly.
Step 3: Add the Protein and Fruits
Top the salad with shredded chicken and mandarin oranges, arranging them evenly for a pretty presentation.
Step 4: Add the Crunch
Sprinkle the toasted almonds, sesame seeds, and chow mein noodles over the top for a delightful crunch.
Step 5: Dress and Toss
Drizzle the sesame dressing over the salad. Start with half the dressing and toss gently. Add more dressing if needed to coat everything lightly but thoroughly.
Step 6: Serve
Divide into individual bowls or plates and serve immediately. Enjoy the fresh and bold flavors!
Equipment Needed
- Large Mixing Bowl for tossing the salad
- Small Bowl or Jar for preparing the dressing
- Whisk for blending the dressing ingredients
- Knife and Cutting Board for slicing and chopping
- Julienne Peeler or Grater for preparing the carrots
- Toaster or Skillet to toast the almonds
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, but keep the components separate until you’re ready to serve. Store the salad base, chicken, and dressing in separate containers. Add the dressing and crunchy toppings just before serving.
Can I use a store-bought sesame dressing?
Absolutely! If you’re short on time, a store-bought sesame dressing works just as well. Look for one with a balance of sweet and tangy flavors.
Can I substitute the chicken with another protein?
Yes, grilled shrimp, tofu, or even cooked salmon are excellent alternatives. Adjust the portion size to your preference.
How do I toast almonds?
Place the sliced almonds in a dry skillet over medium heat. Stir frequently until golden brown and fragrant, about 3–5 minutes. Be careful not to burn them.
Is there a vegetarian version of this salad?
Definitely! Swap the chicken for crispy tofu or chickpeas for a delicious vegetarian option.
What other vegetables can I add?
Feel free to include cucumbers, snap peas, or bell peppers for extra crunch and variety.
Conclusion
I hope you enjoyed this recipe for Asian Sesame Chicken Salad! It’s a delightful medley of textures and flavors, perfect for any occasion. If you try it, don’t forget to share this post on Facebook or save it to Pinterest for later. Happy cooking and happy eating! 😊
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