Okay, friend, you *need* this Asian Sesame Chicken Salad Recipe in your life. Seriously. It’s one of those dishes that I make on repeat, especially when the weather starts warming up and I’m craving something flavorful but light. I remember the first time I made this, it was for a potluck, and it vanished so fast! It’s kind of like a deconstructed spring roll, but even better because it’s got this addictive sweet and savory sesame dressing. If you love a good chicken salad, but you’re looking for something a little more exciting than the classic mayo-laden version, trust me, this is it. It hits all the right notes – crunchy, refreshing, and incredibly satisfying. This Asian Sesame Chicken Salad is about to become your new go-to!
What is Asian Sesame Chicken Salad?
Think of it as a party in your mouth! Asian Sesame Chicken Salad is basically a delicious blend of shredded chicken, crisp veggies like shredded carrots, crunchy cabbage, and scallions, all tossed in a ridiculously good sesame-ginger dressing. It’s essentially a flavorful, vibrant salad that’s incredibly easy to throw together. The name really says it all: you’ve got the Asian-inspired flavors of sesame oil, ginger, and soy sauce, combined with the comforting familiarity of a chicken salad. It’s not your grandma’s chicken salad, that’s for sure! I think the best part is how customizable it is – you can add or subtract veggies based on what you have on hand, and the dressing is easily adjustable to your preferred level of sweetness or tang. I love it because it feels like a complete meal, packed with protein and nutrients, but it’s still light and refreshing enough for a hot day.
Why you’ll love this recipe?
Oh, where do I even begin? First and foremost, the flavor is just insane. You’ve got the savory notes from the soy sauce, the warmth of the ginger, the nutty richness of the sesame oil, and a touch of sweetness that balances everything out perfectly. It’s an explosion of Asian-inspired goodness in every bite. What I love most about this Asian Sesame Chicken Salad Recipe is how incredibly easy it is to make. Seriously, it comes together in under 30 minutes, which is a lifesaver on busy weeknights. Plus, it’s so much more exciting than a boring old sandwich! It’s also a fantastic way to use up leftover cooked chicken. I often roast a whole chicken on Sunday and then use the leftovers to make this salad during the week. Talk about efficient! It’s also super cost-effective; you can easily find all the ingredients at your local grocery store, and many of them, like sesame oil and soy sauce, are pantry staples that you probably already have on hand. And let’s talk versatility! You can serve it in lettuce wraps, on croissants, over rice noodles, or even just eat it straight out of the bowl (guilty!). If you’re a fan of my other Asian-inspired recipes, like my Kung Pao Chicken or my Ginger Garlic Noodles, then you’re absolutely going to adore this Asian Sesame Chicken Salad Recipe. It’s a lighter, fresher take on those classic flavors, and it’s just as addictive, I promise!
How do I make Asian Sesame Chicken Salad?
Quick Overview
How do I make Asian Sesame Chicken Salad? How do you start preparing your ingredients for a meal? What’s the best way to make a sesame-ginger dressing? What do you toss together and enjoy! What is the beauty of this recipe? Can you adjust the amount of ingredients to suit your own taste, and you can easily substitute the ingredients. What are some of the best ingredients to have on hand? What is the best dressing for a salad?
Ingredients
For the Salad:
* 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken (I prefer using rotisserie chicken for convenience)
* 1 cup shredded cabbage (napa or green cabbage work well)
* 1/2 cup shredded carrots
* 1/4 cup thinly sliced scallions
* 1/4 cup chopped cilantro (optional, but I love the fresh flavor) * 1 cup shredded kale/seaweed/cinnamon (
* 1/4 cup toasted sesame seeds (adds a lovely nutty crunch)
* 1/4 cup slivered almonds (optional, for extra crunch and flavor) * 1/2 cup raisins (flavor and color)
For the Asian Sesame Dressing:
* 1/4 cup soy sauce (I use low-sodium)
* 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
* 2 tablespoons sesame oil
* 1 tablespoon honey (or maple syrup for a vegan option)
* 1 tablespoon grated Fresh Ginger
* 1 clove garlic, minced
* 1 teaspoon sriracha (optional, for a little kick) * 2 teaspoons chives
* 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
What are the steps to
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken and Veggies
Start by shredding your cooked chicken. If you’re using rotisserie chicken, remove the skin and bones and shred the meat with two forks. Next, prepare your veggies. Shred the cabbage and carrots, thinly slice the scallions, and chop the cilantro (if using). I usually buy pre-shredded cabbage and carrots to save time, but you can definitely shred them yourself if you prefer.
Step 2: Make the Asian Sesame Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, honey (or maple syrup), grated ginger, minced garlic, and sriracha (if using). Make sure everything is well combined. Then, slowly whisk in the vegetable oil until the dressing is emulsified. This will help the dressing cling to the chicken and veggies. Taste and adjust the seasonings as needed. If you like it sweeter, add a little more honey. If you like it tangier, add a little more rice vinegar. Don’t be afraid to experiment!
Step 3: Toss Everything Together
In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cabbage, carrots, scallions, and cilantro (if using). Pour the Asian Sesame Dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat everything evenly. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the salad soggy. You want everything to be lightly coated with the dressing, but not swimming in it.
Step 4: Add the Finishing Touches
Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds and slivered almonds over the salad. This adds a lovely nutty crunch and visual appeal. I always toast my sesame seeds in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes, until they’re golden brown. I don’t have any other seeds. Lightly golden brown and fragrant. Be sure to watch them carefully, as they can burn easily. Let the salad sit for at least 15 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together. What is the best way to cook a chicken the longer it sits, the better it tastes.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Serve the Asian Sesame Chicken Salad immediately, or chill it in the refrigerator for later. It’s delicious on its own, but it’s also great served in lettuce wraps, on croissants, or over rice noodles. Garnish with extra sesame seeds and scallions, if desired. This salad is also perfect for meal prepping. It stays fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making it a great option for lunch or dinner during the week.
What to Serve It With
What is a good Asian Sesame Chicken Salad recipe?For Lunch:What is a good salad to serve with lettuce wraps? I love using butter lettuce or romaine lettuce for this recipe. What are some healthy lunches that can be packed in a container?For Dinner:Serve it over rice noodles or quinoa for a more substantial meal. I often add steamed broccoli or edamame for extra veggies.As an Appetizer: What Serve it on toasted baguette slices or crackers for a flavorful appetizer.
For a Picnic:This salad is perfect for picnics because it travels well and doesn’t require heating. Just pack it in a container and enjoy!With Drinks:I think this Asian Sesame Chicken Salad pairs perfectly with a crisp white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc. What is the difference between Pinot Grigio and Blanc What are some good ways to serve a pilsner or pale ale? What are some non-alcoholic ways to enjoy green tea with a slice of bread?
How do I prepare Asian Sesame Chicken Salad?
Okay, so I’ve made this Asian Sesame Chicken Salad recipe *a lot* of times, and I have learned a few things. What are the things you did along the way? What are some tips for perfecting a technique?Don’t Overcook the Chicken:Should chicken be cooked through? If you’re using rotisserie chicken, be sure to remove the skin and bones before shredding it.Don’t overdress the salad: a healthyHow do I make a dressing for chicken and veggies? Start with a little bit of dressing and add more as needed.Toast the Sesame Seeds: What are Toasting the sesame seeds before adding them to the salad really brings out their nutty flavor. I toast them in a dry skillet over medium heat for a few minutes, until they’re lightly golden brown and fragrant.
Let the Salad Sit: Letting the salad sit for at least 15 minutes before serving allows the flavors to meld together. The longer it sits, the better it tastes!
Adjust the Sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter salad, add a little more honey to the dressing. If you prefer a tangier salad, add a little more rice vinegar.
Add Some Crunch: I love adding some crunchy elements to this salad, like toasted sesame seeds, slivered almonds, or crispy wonton strips.
Make It Ahead: This salad is perfect for meal prepping because it stays fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just be sure to store the dressing separately and add it right before serving. I’ve made this ahead of time so many times, it’s a great dish when expecting company.
Storing and Reheating Tips
Here’s how to properly store this Asian Sesame Chicken Salad Recipe so you can enjoy it for days to come:
Room Temperature: I don’t recommend leaving this salad at room temperature for more than 2 hours, as it contains chicken and a dressing that can spoil quickly.
Refrigerator Storage: Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The dressing will help to keep the chicken and veggies moist.
Freezer Instructions: I don’t recommend freezing this salad, as the chicken and veggies can become watery and lose their texture when thawed.
Glaze Timing Advice: It’s best to add the dressing right before serving, especially if you’re making the salad ahead of time. This will help to prevent the salad from becoming soggy. If you’ve already added the dressing, it will still be okay to store the salad in the refrigerator, but it might not be as fresh. Make sure the container is air tight to prevent freezer burn if freezing and to keep it fresh in the fridge.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
So there you have it! My go-to Asian Sesame Chicken Salad Recipe. I truly hope you give this one a try – it’s quick, it’s easy, and it’s bursting with flavor. It’s the perfect dish for a light lunch, a quick dinner, or even a potluck. And if you’re looking for other easy and delicious salad recipes, be sure to check out my other blog posts! If you try this recipe, please let me know how it turns out in the comments below. I love hearing your feedback and seeing your creations! Don’t forget to rate this recipe and share it with your friends and family. Happy cooking!
Asian Sesame Chicken Salad Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb Chicken breast
- 2 cups Mixed greens
- 0.5 cup Shredded carrots
- 0.5 cup Chopped cucumber
- 0.25 cup Sesame seeds
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Cook chicken breast until fully cooked. Slice into strips.
- Combine mixed greens, carrots, and cucumber in a large bowl.
- Add sliced chicken to the bowl.
- Drizzle with sesame dressing (recipe below).
- Sprinkle with sesame seeds.
