After a long day, the last thing I want to do is navigate through a crowded delivery menu, filled with the same old options. Thankfully, I discovered the perfect solution: this vibrant Asian Sesame Chicken Salad. Bursting with colorful, crunchy veggies and grilled chicken, it not only satisfies my cravings for something fresh but also nourishes my body with high protein and healthy ingredients.
Each bite is a delightful combination of textures—crisp cabbage, sweet carrots, and a sumptuous sesame-ginger dressing that transforms a simple meal into an exciting culinary experience. Whether it’s for lunch or a light dinner, this salad is a versatile crowd-pleaser that shines on any table. Plus, it comes together in just under 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or when entertaining guests. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe that will bring a taste of the Asian-inspired cuisine directly to your home!
Why Try This Asian Sesame Chicken Salad?
Quick and Easy: The entire salad comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for those hectic evenings or a last-minute lunch.
Nutritious and Filling: Packed with protein from the grilled chicken and fiber from fresh veggies, this salad is as healthy as it is satisfying.
Flavor Explosion: The sweet and tangy sesame-ginger vinaigrette elevates simple ingredients to new heights, resulting in vibrant tastes that will wow your palate.
Customizable: Easily swap proteins, add more veggies, or play with nut toppings to suit your dietary needs and preferences.
Crowd-Pleaser: This recipe is a sure hit at gatherings, appealing to health-conscious diners without compromising on flavor. Make sure to check out our tips for enhancing flavors in other salads like this delicious variation.
Asian Sesame Chicken Salad Ingredients
For the Salad
• Green Cabbage – Provides crunch and volume; substitute with napa cabbage for a sweeter taste.
• Red Cabbage – Adds color and a slight peppery flavor; can be swapped for additional green cabbage if unavailable.
• Carrots – Offers sweetness and crunch; use pre-shredded carrots to save time.
• Edamame – Contributes protein and fiber; avoid if allergic; substitute with cooked chickpeas or kidney beans.
• Grilled Chicken Breasts – Main protein source; can use rotisserie chicken for speed.
• Green Onions – Adds freshness and mild onion flavor; chives can serve as an alternative.
• Sesame Seeds – Topping that provides nutty flavor and texture; sliced almonds can replace for extra crunch.
• Wonton Strips (optional) – For added crunch; omit for gluten-free option.
For the Sesame-Ginger Vinaigrette
• Rice Vinegar – Provides tanginess; apple cider vinegar can be used as a substitute.
• Soy Sauce – Adds umami; use tamari for gluten-free.
• Sesame Oil – Essential for flavor; can use light olive oil to reduce sesame flavor.
• Olive Oil – Adds richness; can be replaced with any neutral oil.
• Honey/Maple Syrup – For sweetness; maple syrup is a great vegan alternative.
• Fresh Ginger – Vital for authentic taste; ground ginger works in pinches but is less aromatic.
• Garlic – Offers a punch of flavor; garlic powder can substitute in smaller amounts.
• Optional Lime Juice/Sriracha – For added zing; omitted if less spice is desired.
How to Make Asian Sesame Chicken Salad
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Combine the Veggies: In a large bowl, toss together the green cabbage, red cabbage, shredded carrots, edamame, and sliced green onions. This mixture creates a colorful base that’s both crunchy and refreshing.
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Add the Chicken: Gently top the veggie mix with sliced grilled chicken. This protein-packed addition not only adds heartiness but makes your salad feel indulgent and satisfying.
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Whisk the Dressing: In a separate bowl, whisk together rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, olive oil, honey or maple syrup, fresh ginger, and minced garlic until well blended. The fragrant aroma will awaken your taste buds!
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Dress the Salad: Pour the sesame-ginger vinaigrette over the salad ingredients and toss gently to combine everything evenly. Be sure to coat all the veggies and chicken to ensure every bite is bursting with flavor.
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Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle optional sesame seeds (and wonton strips if using) on top for extra crunch. Serve immediately for the best texture and freshness!
Optional: Add a squeeze of lime juice for an extra zesty kick!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Asian Sesame Chicken Salad
Room Temperature: Best enjoyed fresh; avoid leaving out for longer than 2 hours to maintain food safety.
Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Keep the salad and the sesame-ginger vinaigrette separate to prevent sogginess.
Freezer: Not recommended for freezing as the veggies and dressing will lose their crispness and texture when thawed.
Reheating: If using rotisserie chicken, reheat it while ensuring not to heat the salad components, as they are best served fresh.
What to Serve with Asian Sesame Chicken Salad?
This delightful salad is a vibrant and satisfying dish that deserves some equally delicious companions to complete your meal.
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Steamed Jasmine Rice: A fluffy side that provides a neutral base, soaking up any extra vinaigrette and balancing the dish’s flavors.
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Chilled Soba Noodles: Perfectly complementary, these noodles add a nutty taste and a slightly chewy texture that enhances the overall dining experience.
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Grilled Vegetable Skewers: Colorful and smoky, these skewers add an earthy touch to your meal, making it feel like a summer celebration on your plate.
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Crispy Spring Rolls: A crunchy and savory appetizer loaded with fresh veggies. Their texture contrasts beautifully with the salad’s crisp elements.
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Miso Soup: Warm and umami-rich, this comforting soup gives a gentle salty backdrop to offset the fresh, zingy flavors of the salad.
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Coconut Milk Dessert: A light and creamy treat, like coconut panna cotta, pairs wonderfully after a savory meal, adding a sweet finish that calms and delights the palate.
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Chinese Green Tea: An organic drink that cleanses the palate while its floral notes beautifully complement the salad’s flavors, making every bite refreshing.
Embrace these pairings and elevate your dining experience!
Make Ahead Options
Planning ahead with this Asian Sesame Chicken Salad can be a game changer for busy nights! You can prep the veggies—green cabbage, red cabbage, carrots, and green onions—up to 24 hours in advance. Simply chop and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain their crispness. You can also grill the chicken and slice it ahead of time, keeping it fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, whisk together the dressing and pour it over the salad just before tossing to prevent sogginess. This way, you’ll enjoy a fresh, vibrant meal that fits seamlessly into your schedule!
Asian Sesame Chicken Salad Variations
Feel free to give this salad your own twist with these delightful variations that elevate flavor and texture!
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Protein Swap: Replace grilled chicken with tofu or shrimp for a different protein source that still feels hearty and fulfilling.
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Veggie Boost: Toss in additional veggies like bell peppers or cucumbers for an extra crunch and freshness that pops in every bite.
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Nut Alternatives: Use different nuts or seeds based on your dietary preferences—try pumpkin seeds for a delicious change that adds unique flavor.
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Dressing Twist: Experiment with adding a splash of orange juice to the vinaigrette for a citrusy zing that brightens the entire dish.
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Spicy Kick: Incorporate sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of Sriracha into the salad for those who crave a bit of heat alongside the sweetness.
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Fruit Addition: Add in some mandarin oranges or sliced apples for a sweet contrast that pairs beautifully with the savory elements of the salad.
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Herbal Flair: Sprinkle fresh cilantro or mint on top for a fragrant herbaceous note that introduces an exciting herbal dimension to the dish.
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Crunch Variation: Swap wonton strips for crispy chickpeas or toasted quinoa to maintain that satisfying crunch while adding a different texture.
Expert Tips for Asian Sesame Chicken Salad
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Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh veggies and herbs to enhance the flavor and texture of your Asian Sesame Chicken Salad; wilted greens can ruin the dish.
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Toast Your Seeds: For an extra layer of flavor, toast sesame seeds or almonds in a dry skillet before adding them to the salad. This brings out their nuttiness and adds depth.
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Vinaigrette Balance: Adjust the sweetness and tanginess of your dressing by modifying the amount of honey/maple syrup and rice vinegar; this ensures it complements your personal taste preferences.
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Protein Variety: Feel free to substitute grilled chicken with tofu, shrimp, or chickpeas based on your dietary preferences; each lends a different flavor to the salad.
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Prep Ahead: If making in advance, store the dressing separate from the salad to prevent sogginess and maintain crunch. Enjoy within 1-2 days for the best quality!
Asian Sesame Chicken Salad Recipe FAQs
What type of cabbage should I use for the salad?
Absolutely! Green cabbage gives a great crunch, while red cabbage adds a beautiful color and slight peppery flavor. If you can’t find red cabbage, feel free to use extra green cabbage for the right amount of volume and texture.
How long can I store the leftovers in the fridge?
Stored properly in an airtight container, your Asian Sesame Chicken Salad will stay fresh for about 1-2 days. It’s best to keep the salad and dressing separate until you’re ready to eat to maintain that perfect crunch!
Can I freeze this salad?
I would not recommend freezing the Asian Sesame Chicken Salad. The veggies and dressing will lose their crispness and texture when thawed. If you have leftover grilled chicken, you can freeze that separately for up to 3 months!
What should I do if my salad becomes soggy?
So sorry to hear that! If your salad is soggy, it’s best to freshen it up by adding more fresh green cabbage or carrots. The extra veggies can help absorb some moisture, especially if you prepare the dressing separately next time to avoid this problem.
Are there any common allergens in this recipe?
Yes, this salad includes soy sauce and sesame oil, which can be allergens for some individuals. You can easily modify the recipe to be gluten-free by using tamari and for those allergic to sesame, you can replace sesame oil with light olive oil. Always remember to read labels to ensure safety!
How can I make this salad vegan?
Very simply! To make the Asian Sesame Chicken Salad vegan, replace the grilled chicken with tofu, chickpeas, or even tempeh. Additionally, ensure to swap honey with maple syrup in the dressing. This way, you can enjoy the delicious flavors without compromising your dietary preferences!
Asian Sesame Chicken Salad: Vibrant, Healthy, and Oh-So-Delicious
Equipment
- - Large bowl
- Whisk
Ingredients
For the Salad
- 2 cups green cabbage shredded
- 1 cup red cabbage shredded
- 1 cup carrots shredded
- 1 cup edamame shelled
- 2 cups grilled chicken breasts sliced
- 3 stalks green onions sliced
- 2 tablespoons sesame seeds optional
- 1 cup wonton strips optional
For the Sesame-Ginger Vinaigrette
- 3 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari for gluten-free
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil or light olive oil
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or any neutral oil
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup for vegan
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger minced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tablespoon optional lime juice or sriracha for added zing
Instructions
Instructions
- In a large bowl, toss together the green cabbage, red cabbage, shredded carrots, edamame, and sliced green onions.
- Gently top the veggie mix with sliced grilled chicken.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, olive oil, honey or maple syrup, fresh ginger, and minced garlic until well blended.
- Pour the sesame-ginger vinaigrette over the salad ingredients and toss gently to combine.
- Sprinkle optional sesame seeds (and wonton strips if using) on top for extra crunch. Serve immediately.