Sesame Chicken Salad

Sesame Chicken Salad is a delightful dish that combines the crunch of fresh vegetables with the savory flavor of marinated chicken. This colorful salad not only pleases the palate but also provides a wholesome meal packed with nutritious ingredients. If you’re looking for a recipe that’s both healthy and satisfying, this one is perfect!

Why Make This Recipe

There are countless reasons to whip up a Sesame Chicken Salad in your kitchen. Firstly, it’s incredibly versatile—perfect for lunch, dinner, or even as a picnic dish. The marriage of flavors from the sesame dressing and marinated chicken creates a taste sensation that’s hard to resist. Not only is it delicious, but it also incorporates a variety of vegetables that are not only good for you but also add bright colors to your plate.

Furthermore, this recipe can be easily customized to fit dietary preferences. Whether you prefer to use coconut aminos instead of soy sauce or swap out chicken for tofu or tempeh, the options are limitless. It’s an easy, fulfilling recipe that’s manageable for cooks of all skill levels!

How to Make Sesame Chicken Salad

Creating your own Sesame Chicken Salad is a straightforward process. Here’s how to do it, step by step!

Ingredients

To prepare this delightful salad, you’ll need the following ingredients:

2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
1/4 cup low sodium soy sauce or coconut aminos
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons brown sugar or coconut sugar
2 tablespoons tahini
1 tablespoon sesame oil (preferably toasted)
2 tablespoons rice vinegar
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
1 tablespoon sesame seeds
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
2 cups green cabbage, shredded
2 cups red cabbage, shredded
1/4 cup green onion, chopped
1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
1 cup carrots, julienned
1 red bell pepper, sliced
1 jalapeño, sliced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon pure maple syrup
1/4 cup toasted sliced almonds
1/4 cup roasted cashews
Extra cilantro for garnish
Extra green onion for garnish

Directions

Now, let’s get into the cooking process!

Marinate the chicken: In a bowl, combine the low sodium soy sauce or coconut aminos, minced garlic, brown sugar, tahini, sesame oil, rice vinegar, grated ginger, sesame seeds, and red pepper flakes. Add the chicken breasts to the mixture, ensuring they are well-coated. Allow them to marinate for at least 30 minutes.
Cook the chicken: Preheat your grill or skillet over medium heat. Cook the marinated chicken until it’s fully cooked and turns a lovely golden brown—this should take about 6-7 minutes per side. Once done, let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
Prepare the salad: In a large bowl, combine the shredded green cabbage, red cabbage, chopped green onion, cilantro, julienned carrots, sliced red bell pepper, and sliced jalapeño. Toss the ingredients together gently.
Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the toasted sesame oil, olive oil, low sodium soy sauce (or coconut aminos), rice vinegar, maple syrup, garlic, and fresh ginger. If you desire a creamier texture, feel free to add tahini or cashew butter.
Assemble: Slice the cooked chicken and place it on top of the salad. Drizzle with the prepared dressing and gently toss everything together to combine well.
Serve: Finally, top the salad with toasted sliced almonds, roasted cashews, sesame seeds, extra cilantro, extra green onion, and jalapeño slices for added flavor and presentation.

Pro Tips for Success Sesame Chicken Salad

Marination Magic: The longer you marinate the chicken, the more flavorful it will be. If time permits, try to marinate it for an hour.
Veggie Variations: You can include other vegetables like snap peas, radishes, or even cucumbers for extra crunch and flavor.
Nut-Free Option: If you or someone you’re serving is allergic to nuts, simply omit the almonds and cashews or use pumpkin seeds as a substitute.
Serving Temperature: This salad can be served cold or at room temperature, making it ideal for meal prep or picnics.
Dress to Impress: Always dress your salad just before serving to prevent it from getting soggy, especially with the added vegetables.
Customize: Feel free to adjust the spicy elements, like the red pepper flakes or jalapeño, according to your heat preference.

Flavor Variations Sesame Chicken Salad

Asian Flair: Add some sliced mandarin oranges and toasted sesame seeds for a hint of sweetness that complements the savory chicken.
Herbal Boost: Incorporate fresh mint or basil leaves to enhance the fragrance and freshness of your salad.
Spicy Kick: For those who enjoy a little heat, consider adding a drizzle of sriracha or a dash of chili oil to the dressing.
Crunchy Texture: Mix in some crispy wonton strips for an extra crunch that pairs nicely with the salad’s softness.
Fruit Addition: Diced apples or pears can add a delightful sweetness and texture that balances the otherwise savory dish.

Serving Suggestions Sesame Chicken Salad

Sesame Chicken Salad is a meal on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with several other dishes. Consider serving it alongside:

Steamed Rice: A side of jasmine or brown rice can make the meal more filling and balanced.
Edamame: These protein-packed legumes are a perfect complement to your salad.
Spring Rolls: Serve with some fresh spring rolls for a complete Asian-inspired meal.
Quinoa: This grain is another nutritious companion that adds to the dish’s texture.
Grilled Pineapple: For those hot summer days, grilled pineapple makes a refreshing side.

Storage and Freezing Instructions Sesame Chicken Salad

For the best taste, it’s recommended to eat the Sesame Chicken Salad fresh, but you can store any leftovers:

Refrigeration: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The vegetables may lose some crunch, so consider making the salad dressing separately and dressing only what you plan to eat.
Freezing: It is not ideal to freeze this salad due to the vegetables’ texture changes but you can freeze the marinated chicken before cooking. Just make sure to thaw it properly before grilling.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

| Nutrient | Amount |
|————-|—————-|
| Calories | 480 |
| Protein | 34g |
| Carbohydrates | 42g |
| Fat | 25g |
| Fiber | 5g |
| Sodium | 600mg |

FAQ About Sesame Chicken Salad

Can I make this salad vegan?

Absolutely! You can substitute the chicken with tofu or tempeh, which are excellent sources of protein and will soak up the flavor of the marinade beautifully. Additionally, ensure you use coconut aminos or a vegan substitute for the soy sauce.

How spicy is this salad?

The level of spiciness in the Sesame Chicken Salad can be adjusted according to your preference. The recipe uses red pepper flakes and jalapeños for heat, which can be easily omitted or reduced if you prefer a milder flavor. Alternatively, you can also add more spicy elements if you like it hot!

Can I meal prep this salad?

Yes, this salad is great for meal prep! You can prepare the veggies and marinate the chicken in advance. Just remember to keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat to maintain the salad’s freshness and crunch.

What can I use instead of tahini?

If you don’t have tahini on hand, you can substitute it with almond butter or sunflower seed butter. Each alternative will bring a slightly different flavor but will still work well in the dressing.

How can I make this salad gluten-free?

To make this sesame chicken salad gluten-free, simply replace soy sauce with tamari sauce, which is a gluten-free alternative. Also, ensure that any additional ingredients or toppings you use are certified gluten-free.

Final Thoughts

Sesame Chicken Salad is not just a meal; it’s a vibrant explosion of flavors and textures that invites you to explore healthy eating without sacrificing taste. Whether you’re enjoying it for lunch, dinner, or as a quick snack, this salad has something to offer everyone. With its customizable ingredients and seasoned chicken, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Enjoy the cooking process, share it with friends and family, and make every bite a joyous occasion!