Delicious Sesame Chicken Salad Recipe for Summer Fun

Name: Sesame Chicken Salad
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs); 4 cups mixed lettuce greens; 1 cup bell peppers, sliced; 1 cup cucumbers, sliced; 1 cup shredded carrots; 3 tbsp sesame oil; 3 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce; 2 tbsp honey; 2 tbsp rice vinegar; Toasted sesame seeds for garnish

Recipe By:

Alison Shear

Posted:

August 10, 2025

Updated:

August 10, 2025

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The tantalizing crunch of fresh vegetables, the savory aroma of perfectly cooked chicken, and the nutty scent of sesame oil – all wrapped up in one delightful dish, the Sesame Chicken Salad Recipe. This meal is not just a feast for the eyes; it’s a symphony of flavors that dances on your palate, making every bite an exciting adventure.

Picture this: you’re hosting a summer barbecue, friends are laughing, and the sun is shining. You whip up this Sesame Chicken Salad, and suddenly everyone wants to know your secret. It’s easy to make and even easier to devour. With its vibrant colors and refreshing taste, this salad is perfect for warm evenings or as a light lunch that feels indulgent but keeps you feeling great.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This Sesame Chicken Salad Recipe is quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
The combination of textures creates a satisfying crunch with every bite.
Its colorful presentation will impress any guest at your dinner table.
Perfectly versatile, you can serve it as a main course or a light side dish alongside grilled favorites.

Ingredients for Sesame Chicken Salad Recipe

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Use about 3-4 chicken breasts for this recipe; they are easy to cook and absorb flavors well.
Fresh Vegetables: Choose crisp lettuce, bell peppers, cucumbers, and carrots for bright colors and refreshing crunch.
Sesame Oil: A little goes a long way; this oil adds a nutty flavor that ties the whole salad together.
Soy Sauce: Opt for low-sodium soy sauce to keep it flavorful without overwhelming saltiness.
Honey: This natural sweetener balances the savory elements while adding a hint of sweetness.

For the Sauce:

Rice Vinegar: Adds acidity to brighten the flavors; look for unseasoned rice vinegar for the best taste.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Recipe preparation for Sesame Chicken Salad Recipe

How to Make Sesame Chicken Salad Recipe

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

Start by preheating your grill or stovetop skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper for an extra kick. Grill or sauté them until golden brown on both sides and fully cooked through—about 6-7 minutes per side depending on thickness.

Step 2: Prepare the Dressing

While the chicken is cooking, whisk together soy sauce, sesame oil, honey, and rice vinegar in a small bowl until well combined. Taste it – if it doesn’t make you want to do a happy dance in your kitchen, adjust with more honey or soy sauce!

Step 3: Chop Up Those Veggies

Once your chicken is done cooking and resting (don’t skip resting! It’s where all those juicy flavors come together), chop up your fresh veggies into bite-sized pieces. Think about how colorful your plate will be; it’s practically a rainbow!

Step 4: Slice the Chicken

After letting it rest for about five minutes (patience pays off!), slice your chicken into strips or cubes – whatever feels right at that moment! Just remember: no one wants rubbery chicken.

Step 5: Combine Everything

In a large bowl, toss together all your chopped veggies with the sliced chicken. Drizzle that delicious dressing over everything and mix gently but thoroughly so every piece shines.

Step 6: Serve It Up

Transfer everything into serving bowls or plates. To elevate it even more (because why not?), sprinkle some toasted sesame seeds on top before serving!

And there you have it! Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch.

This Sesame Chicken Salad Recipe not only brings together fantastic flavors but also offers flexibility with ingredients based on what you have on hand. So whether you’re prepping for guests or just treating yourself after a long day at work, this salad is bound to become a new favorite! Enjoy!

You Must Know

This delightful sesame chicken salad recipe combines fresh flavors with a satisfying crunch, making it a perfect meal for any occasion.
You can easily adapt the ingredients based on your taste preferences or what’s in your fridge.
The vibrant colors and textures will impress anyone at your dinner table.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

To get the best results, start by marinating the chicken for at least 30 minutes. While it’s soaking up those delicious flavors, chop your veggies. Then, sear the chicken until golden brown before tossing everything together in a large bowl.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to play with this sesame chicken salad recipe! Swap out chicken for tofu for a vegetarian twist or add fruits like mandarin oranges or strawberries for a sweet touch. Experiment with different dressings to find your favorite flavor combination.

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. For reheating, gently warm the chicken in a pan over low heat to avoid drying it out while keeping the veggies cold and crunchy.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Always slice the chicken against the grain to ensure tenderness.
Use fresh ingredients as they elevate the dish’s flavor profile significantly.
Adjust the sesame oil according to your taste preference; a little goes a long way!

Sometimes, I whip up this sesame chicken salad during busy weeknights, and my kids can’t get enough of it—especially when they think they’re eating “fancy” food!

FAQs :

What ingredients do I need for the Sesame Chicken Salad Recipe?

To create a delightful Sesame Chicken Salad, gather fresh ingredients like grilled chicken breast, mixed greens, shredded carrots, and cucumbers. For the dressing, you’ll need sesame oil, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. You can also add toppings such as sliced almonds or crispy wonton strips to enhance the flavor and texture. This combination provides a delicious balance of protein and veggies while keeping your meal light and refreshing.

How long does it take to prepare the Sesame Chicken Salad Recipe?

Preparing the Sesame Chicken Salad takes about 20 minutes in total. You can save time by grilling the chicken in advance or using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken. The chopping of vegetables like cucumbers and carrots may take around 10 minutes. Mixing the dressing only requires a few minutes as well. Overall, this quick recipe is great for busy weekdays when you want something nutritious without spending too much time in the kitchen.

Can I make the Sesame Chicken Salad Recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the Sesame Chicken Salad ahead of time! To maintain freshness, store each component separately until you’re ready to serve. Keep the grilled chicken and vegetables in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to three days. When ready to enjoy, simply combine everything with the dressing. If you prefer not to have soggy greens, add the dressing just before serving for an optimal taste experience.

What variations can I try with my Sesame Chicken Salad Recipe?

You can customize your Sesame Chicken Salad Recipe by adding unique ingredients based on your preferences. Consider incorporating fruits like mandarin oranges or avocado for extra flavor. For a crunchier texture, add nuts such as cashews or walnuts. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, substitute grilled chicken with tofu or chickpeas. Experimenting with different vegetables and proteins allows you to create a salad that suits your taste perfectly.

Conclusion for Sesame Chicken Salad Recipe :

In summary, this Sesame Chicken Salad Recipe is both simple and delicious, making it perfect for any occasion. With fresh ingredients like grilled chicken and vibrant vegetables tossed in a flavorful sesame dressing, you’ll enjoy a satisfying meal that’s healthy too. Feel free to customize it according to your personal preferences or dietary needs for an even more enjoyable experience. Whether served for lunch or dinner, this salad is sure to impress anyone at your table!

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