Sesame Chicken Salad

This Sesame Chicken Salad is a delightful blend of crunchy and creamy textures, combined with a sweet and savory sesame vinaigrette. Perfect for lunch or dinner, this salad is not only refreshing but also incredibly versatile for various occasions. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or looking for a quick weeknight meal, this dish stands out with its vibrant flavors and wholesome ingredients.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 20 minutes to prepare, you can whip up this tasty salad in no time.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of fresh ingredients and the sesame vinaigrette creates a mouthwatering experience.
• Healthy Option: Packed with veggies and lean protein, it’s a nutritious choice that keeps you feeling satisfied.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as a side or main course, or even meal prep it for the week ahead.
• Easy to Customize: Add your favorite toppings or substitute ingredients to suit your taste preferences.

Tools and Preparation

To make the perfect Sesame Chicken Salad, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment will help streamline your cooking process and ensure great results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Whisk or mason jar
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl allows ample space for combining all your ingredients without making a mess.
• Whisk or mason jar: Using a whisk or mason jar helps achieve a well-blended vinaigrette quickly.
• Cutting board: A sturdy cutting board provides a safe surface for chopping vegetables and proteins.
• Sharp knife: A sharp knife ensures clean cuts, making prep work quicker and safer.

Ingredients

This Sesame Chicken Salad recipe is perfectly crunchy, creamy, sweet, savory, and tossed with a yummy sesame vinaigrette.

For the Salad

• 1 (14-ounce) bag coleslaw (or 7 cups shredded cabbage)
• 2 cups diced or shredded cooked chicken
• 1 cup loosely-packed chopped cilantro
• 2/3 cup sliced green onions
• 2/3 cup sliced or slivered almonds, toasted
• 1/2 cup shredded carrots
• 1 avocado, peeled, pitted and diced
• Toasted sesame seeds, for sprinkling

For the Vinaigrette

• 2 tablespoons avocado oil (or olive oil)
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon low-sodium soy sauce (or tamari)
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey
• 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1 small garlic clove, pressed or minced (or 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder)
• A few twists of freshly-cracked black pepper

How to Make Sesame Chicken Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Vinaigrette

In a small bowl or mason jar:
1. Whisk together all vinaigrette ingredients until well combined.
2. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.

Step 2: Combine Salad Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl:
1. Add coleslaw mix, chicken, cilantro, green onions, almonds, shredded carrots, and diced avocado.
2. Drizzle the prepared vinaigrette over the salad mixture.

Step 3: Toss and Serve

1. Gently toss all ingredients together until evenly coated with the vinaigrette.
2. Serve immediately while garnishing with toasted sesame seeds. Enjoy your delicious Sesame Chicken Salad!

How to Serve Sesame Chicken Salad

Sesame Chicken Salad is a delightful dish that balances crunchy textures and vibrant flavors. It can be served in various ways to suit different occasions.

As a Main Course

• Serve it chilled for a refreshing summer meal.
• Pair it with warm, crusty bread for a satisfying dinner.

As an Appetizer

• Present it in small cups or bowls for easy serving at gatherings.
• Use lettuce leaves as cups for a fun finger food option.

On a Bed of Greens

• Place the salad on a bed of mixed greens for added freshness.
• Add extra toppings like cherry tomatoes or cucumber slices for color.

With Additional Proteins

• Top with grilled shrimp or tofu for added protein.
• Incorporate hard-boiled eggs for extra richness.

How to Perfect Sesame Chicken Salad

Creating the perfect Sesame Chicken Salad is all about balancing flavors and textures. Here are some tips to enhance your dish.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs will elevate the salad’s taste and crunch.
• Toast your nuts: Toasted almonds add depth and a wonderful crunch that enhances the overall flavor.
• Make it ahead: Prepare the salad a few hours in advance to let the flavors meld together beautifully.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste as you go, adjusting soy sauce or vinegar to fit your palate perfectly.
• Experiment with proteins: Try using grilled turkey or beef if you’re looking for variety in your protein sources.
• Add seasonal fruits: Incorporate fruits like mandarin oranges or sliced apples for an unexpected sweetness.

Best Side Dishes for Sesame Chicken Salad

Pairing side dishes with your Sesame Chicken Salad can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some fantastic options.

1. Crispy Spring Rolls – These are filled with fresh vegetables and provide a crunchy contrast to the salad.
2. Quinoa Pilaf – A nutritious and hearty side that complements the salad while adding fiber.
3. Garlic Breadsticks – Soft, buttery breadsticks make for a comforting pairing with the crispiness of the salad.
4. Grilled Vegetable Skewers – Colorful skewers bring additional flavors and nutrients that enhance the overall dining experience.
5. Fruit Salad – A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits adds sweetness and balances the savory elements of the dish.
6. Edamame Hummus with Pita Chips – This protein-packed dip pairs wonderfully while providing an extra layer of flavor and texture.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Sesame Chicken Salad, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes to watch out for.

• Using Old Ingredients – Fresh ingredients make a big difference in taste. Always check for freshness, especially with vegetables and chicken.
• Ignoring Dressing Proportions – Too much or too little dressing can ruin the salad. Stick to the recipe’s measurements for a balanced flavor.
• Neglecting to Toast Almonds – Untoasted almonds lack flavor and crunch. Always toast them for the best texture and taste.
• Chopping Veggies Too Large – Large pieces can be difficult to eat and mix. Aim for uniform, bite-sized pieces for an enjoyable salad.
• Forgetting About Seasoning – A pinch of salt or pepper can elevate flavors. Don’t skip seasoning your salad adequately.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Sesame Chicken Salad in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh for up to 2 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Sesame Chicken Salad

• Freezing is not recommended due to texture changes in fresh ingredients, particularly avocado and lettuce.

Reheating Sesame Chicken Salad

• Oven – Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the salad on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 minutes, but avoid direct heating of vegetables.
• Microwave – Place the salad in a microwave-safe dish and heat in short bursts of 30 seconds, stirring between intervals until warmed.
• Stovetop – Heat gently in a pan over low heat, stirring occasionally. Be cautious not to overcook the veggies.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Sesame Chicken Salad?

Sesame Chicken Salad is a vibrant dish featuring cooked chicken tossed with crunchy vegetables, nuts, and a flavorful sesame vinaigrette.

How can I customize my Sesame Chicken Salad?

You can add other proteins like turkey or beef, swap veggies based on your preference, or include different nuts for variety.

Can I meal prep this Sesame Chicken Salad?

Yes! Prepare all ingredients ahead of time and store them separately. Combine just before serving for maximum freshness.

What dressing works best with this salad?

The sesame vinaigrette provided in the recipe complements the flavors perfectly; however, you can experiment with other dressings if desired.

Is this recipe suitable for kids?

Absolutely! The flavors are mild yet delicious, making it a great choice for children while providing essential nutrients.

Final Thoughts

This Sesame Chicken Salad is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it with your favorite ingredients or dressings. It’s perfect for weeknight meals or as part of meal prep. Give it a try—you’ll love its crunchiness and flavors!