Asian Sesame Chicken Salad Recipe

You’re about to elevate your everyday sesame chicken salad into something truly extraordinary. This Asian-inspired creation isn’t just another bowl of greens – it’s a carefully orchestrated blend of textures and flavors that’ll transport your taste buds across the Pacific. The secret lies in the sesame dressing’s perfect balance of umami and tang, while the combination of crisp vegetables and tender chicken creates an unforgettable harmony. Let’s explore how you can master this restaurant-worthy dish in your own kitchen.

Overview

• Season and pan-sear chicken breasts for 6-7 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked to 165°F internal temperature.
• Mix sesame dressing by whisking together sesame oil, rice vinegar, soy sauce, honey, minced ginger, and garlic powder.
• Layer mixed greens, shredded red cabbage, and julienned carrots as the salad base in a large bowl.
• Top with sliced chicken, mandarin orange segments, toasted almonds, and sesame seeds for color and texture.
• Drizzle with sesame dressing and garnish with crispy wonton strips just before serving.

Recipe

This vibrant and nutritious Asian-inspired sesame chicken salad combines succulent sliced chicken breast with crisp vegetables, sweet mandarin oranges, and crunchy almonds. The dish is brought together by a rich, umami-packed sesame dressing that perfectly balances sweet, salty, and tangy flavors.

The beauty of this salad lies in its versatility and make-ahead potential. While it’s best assembled just before serving, the components can be prepared in advance, making it an ideal option for busy weeknight dinners or meal prep. The homemade sesame dressing adds a distinctive Asian flair that elevates this salad beyond ordinary fare.

Ingredients:

• 2 chicken breasts, cooked and sliced
• 8 cups mixed salad greens
• 2 cups shredded red cabbage
• 1 cup shredded carrots
• 1 cup mandarin orange segments
• 1/2 cup sliced almonds
• 2 tablespoons sesame seeds
• 3 tablespoons sesame oil
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Crispy wonton strips (optional)

Cooking Steps

You’ll start by grilling or pan-searing the chicken breasts until they reach 165°F internal temperature, then letting them rest before slicing.

Next, you’ll whisk together the sesame oil, rice vinegar, soy sauce, honey, minced ginger, and garlic powder to create your Asian-inspired dressing.

Finally, you’ll assemble your salad by layering the mixed greens, shredded cabbage, and carrots, then top with the sliced chicken, mandarin oranges, toasted almonds, and a sprinkle of sesame seeds before drizzling with the prepared dressing.

Step 1. Cook Chicken Until Done

To guarantee perfectly cooked chicken for your Asian sesame chicken salad, start by seasoning two boneless, skinless chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat your pan over medium-high heat and add a tablespoon of oil. Place the chicken in the pan and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown.

For a time-saving tip, you can batch-cook several chicken breasts at once and freeze the extras for future salads. Try these flavor variations to keep things interesting: add Chinese five-spice powder before cooking, brush with teriyaki sauce during the last minute, or marinate in advance with ginger and garlic. You’ll know your chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the center is no longer pink.

Step 2. Mix Asian Sesame Dressing

Creating the perfect Asian sesame dressing starts with precise measurements and proper emulsification technique. In a medium bowl, whisk together 3 tablespoons of sesame oil, 2 tablespoons of rice vinegar, and 1 tablespoon each of soy sauce and honey.

Add your minced ginger and garlic powder, whisking continuously until the mixture becomes smooth and well-combined.

You’ll want to taste and customize your dressing at this point. If you prefer more sweetness, add a touch more honey. For extra umami, increase the soy sauce slightly. Don’t worry about adjusting ingredient ratios to match your taste preferences – this dressing is quite forgiving.

Once you’re satisfied with the flavor balance, transfer to an airtight container. You can use the dressing immediately or refrigerate it for up to three days.

Step 3. Prepare Fresh Vegetables

Fresh, crisp vegetables form the foundation of this Asian sesame chicken salad, and proper preparation guarantees fundamental texture and presentation. Begin with thorough vegetable inspection, discarding any wilted or discolored pieces from your greens, cabbage, and carrots.

Wash your salad greens in cold water and dry them thoroughly using a salad spinner. You’ll want to shred the red cabbage thinly and julienne the carrots for ideal bite-size pieces.

After prep, proper vegetable storage is pivotal – wrap your cleaned greens in paper towels and store them in a sealed container in the crisper drawer. They’ll stay fresh for up to three days. If you’re meal prepping, keep your prepared vegetables separate from wet ingredients like mandarin oranges until you’re ready to serve.

Step 4. Combine Salad Components Together

With your prepped vegetables ready, assembly of this vibrant salad begins in a large serving bowl. Start by creating a colorful base with the mixed greens, then layer in the shredded red cabbage and carrots, allowing their textures to intermingle.

Place your sliced chicken breast elegantly across the top of the vegetables. Arrange the mandarin orange segments in a circular pattern around the bowl, creating visual appeal while ensuring balanced flavor combinations in every bite. Scatter the toasted almonds and sesame seeds over the arrangement, adding essential crunch. If you’re using them, crown the salad with crispy wonton strips.

Just before serving, drizzle your prepared sesame dressing in a zigzag pattern across the top, allowing it to cascade through the layers for ideal taste distribution.

Step 5. Garnish With Crispy Toppings

To achieve the perfect textural contrast, add your crispy garnishes strategically just before serving. Start by sprinkling toasted sesame seeds evenly across the dressed salad, ensuring they’re distributed well for consistent crunch texture throughout each bite.

Next, scatter the toasted sliced almonds, which provide a heartier crunch and nutty depth.

For the ultimate texture contrast, crown your salad with a generous handful of crispy wonton strips. These light, airy strips create an irresistible crackly layer that’ll make your salad more engaging. If you’re serving guests, you can place these crispy elements in separate bowls alongside the salad, letting everyone customize their portion. This approach keeps the garnishes perfectly crisp and lets your fellow diners participate in the final assembly of their salad.

Top Tips

Success in making this Asian Sesame Chicken Salad depends on several key techniques and timing considerations. You’ll want to toast your sesame seeds and almonds until they’re fragrant, as this simple step dramatically enhances the overall flavor profile. For the crispiest results, chill your vegetables thoroughly before assembly.

If you’re planning for meal prep, keep your components separate until serving time. Store your dressing in an airtight container, pack your greens and toppings individually, and you’ll maintain ideal texture for up to three days. When you’re ready to serve, toss the greens with just enough dressing to coat them lightly – you can always add more. Remember to add your crispy elements like wonton strips and nuts last to prevent them from becoming soggy.

Nutritional Guide

Nutritional Information per Serving

Nutrient	Amount
Servings	4
Calories	385
Total Fat	22g
Carbohydrates	24g
Protein	28g
Fiber	6g
Sugar	12g
Sodium	420mg

Additional Nutritional Notes:

This sesame chicken salad provides a balanced mix of lean protein from chicken, healthy fats from sesame oil and almonds, and complex carbohydrates from vegetables. The high fiber content supports digestive health, while mandarin oranges contribute essential vitamins and antioxidants. The combination of protein and fiber helps maintain satiety.

Disclaimer:

Nutritional values may vary based on specific ingredients, brands, and portion sizes used. These figures are estimates and should be used as a general guide only. For precise nutritional information, calculate based on the exact products used in your preparation.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re seeking a light dinner option or a meal-prep favorite, this Asian Sesame Chicken Salad delivers restaurant-quality results in your home kitchen. You’ll find this healthy option strikes the perfect balance between nourishing and delicious, making it a go-to choice for busy weeknights or lunch gatherings with friends.

Don’t hesitate to make this satisfying meal your own by adjusting the ingredients to suit your taste. You might prefer to add extra mandarin oranges for sweetness or increase the almonds for more crunch. Remember to toast your nuts and seeds – it’s a small step that makes a significant difference in flavor. With its vibrant colors, diverse textures, and protein-rich profile, this salad proves that healthy eating doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor or satisfaction.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Substitute Sesame Oil With Another Type of Oil?

You can substitute sesame oil with olive oil or vegetable oil, but you’ll lose the distinctive nutty flavor. If you’re making this switch, try adding a teaspoon of toasted sesame seeds for authenticity.

How Long Will the Cooked Chicken Stay Fresh in This Salad?

Like time itself, your chicken’s freshness is precious. When stored properly in an airtight container in your refrigerator, you’ll have 3-4 days of shelf life to enjoy it before it’s time to prepare fresh.

What’s the Best Way to Slice the Chicken for This Recipe?

You’ll want to slice your cooled chicken breast thinly against the grain into bite-sized pieces. For the perfect texture, let it rest for 5 minutes after cooking, then use a sharp knife at a slight angle.

Are There Vegetarian Alternatives That Work Well in This Recipe?

You can easily swap in crispy pan-fried tofu or tempeh as your plant-based protein option. Marinate either in the sesame dressing before cooking, and they’ll absorb those delicious Asian flavors perfectly.

Can I Make This Salad Spicy Without Affecting the Overall Taste?

You can easily adjust spice level by adding red pepper flakes, sriracha, or chili oil to the dressing. For extra kick, incorporate fresh minced Thai chilies or a dash of cayenne into your mix.