Sesame Chicken Salad

Sesame Chicken Salad is a fresh, flavorful dish featuring tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and a deliciously tangy sesame dressing. This vibrant salad is quick to make, full of satisfying textures, and perfect for a healthy lunch or light dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll love this Sesame Chicken Salad because it’s bright, crunchy, and packed with flavor. The homemade sesame dressing is simple yet restaurant-worthy, bringing a savory-sweet balance to every bite. Plus, it’s easy to customize with your favorite veggies or protein, making it perfect for meal prep or entertaining.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• Romaine lettuce or mixed salad greens
• Red cabbage, thinly sliced
• Carrots, julienned
• Red bell pepper, thinly sliced
• Green onions, chopped
• Fresh cilantro, chopped
• Toasted sesame seeds
• Sliced almonds or crunchy wonton strips (optional)
• Olive oil or sesame oil (for cooking chicken)

For the dressing:

• Soy sauce
• Rice vinegar
• Sesame oil
• Honey or maple syrup
• Fresh ginger, grated
• Garlic, minced
• Lime juice
• Olive oil

Directions

1. Season the chicken with salt and pepper. Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the chicken for 5–7 minutes per side until cooked through and golden. Let it rest, then slice thinly.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, honey, grated ginger, minced garlic, lime juice, and olive oil until well combined.
3. In a large salad bowl, combine lettuce, red cabbage, carrots, bell pepper, green onions, and cilantro.
4. Add the sliced chicken on top of the salad.
5. Drizzle the sesame dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
6. Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and sliced almonds or wonton strips if desired.
7. Serve immediately.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people and takes about 15 minutes to prep and 15 minutes to cook.

Variations

• Use rotisserie chicken for an even quicker meal.
• Swap the chicken for grilled shrimp or tofu for a different protein option.
• Add cooked rice noodles for a heartier salad.
• Toss in edamame or sliced avocado for extra nutrients.

Storage/Reheating

Store the salad ingredients and dressing separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Assemble just before serving to keep the veggies crisp. Leftover cooked chicken can be enjoyed cold or reheated gently in a skillet.

FAQs

What makes Sesame Chicken Salad so flavorful?

The homemade sesame dressing with ginger, garlic, and lime juice gives this salad its bright, savory taste.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes! Prep the veggies and dressing in advance. Add the dressing and toppings right before serving.

Is this salad healthy?

Yes, it’s packed with lean protein, fresh veggies, and healthy fats.

What kind of chicken works best?

Grilled or pan-seared boneless chicken breasts or thighs work great.

Can I use bottled dressing instead?

You can, but homemade dressing tastes fresher and is easy to make.

How do I toast sesame seeds?

Heat them in a dry skillet over medium heat for a few minutes until golden and fragrant.

What other toppings can I add?

Try crispy wonton strips, chopped peanuts, or extra herbs.

Is this salad gluten-free?

Use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari to make it gluten-free.

How long does the dressing last?

The dressing can be stored in the fridge for up to a week.

What should I serve with Sesame Chicken Salad?

It’s great on its own or with a side of steamed rice or a light soup.

Conclusion

Sesame Chicken Salad is a bright, delicious, and easy way to enjoy a healthy meal packed with fresh veggies and bold Asian-inspired flavors. It’s quick enough for lunch yet special enough for guests. Give this recipe a try and make your next salad anything but boring!

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