Sesame Chicken Salad is a vibrant and nutritious dish that combines crunchy vegetables, tender chicken, and a tangy sesame dressing. This salad is perfect for a light lunch or dinner and is packed with flavors that will leave you satisfied. Here’s how to make this delicious salad step-by-step.
Ingredients
For the Salad:
- Half a green cabbage, shredded or thinly sliced
- 3 cups cooked and shredded chicken
- 3 large carrots, shredded
- 4 green onions, chopped
- ½ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- ¼ cup fresh mint, chopped
- ⅓ cup slivered almonds
For the Dressing:
- 1 orange, zested and juiced
- 3 tablespoons sesame oil
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1/4 cup avocado oil
- 4 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 2 teaspoons honey
- 1-2 teaspoons sriracha
- 1 teaspoon fresh grated ginger
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt to taste
Instructions
Preparing the Dressing
- Combine Ingredients: In a small bowl or jar, combine the orange zest and juice, sesame oil, soy sauce, avocado oil, rice vinegar, honey, sriracha, grated ginger, and garlic powder.
- Mix Well: Whisk or shake the ingredients together until well combined. Taste the dressing and add salt to taste. Adjust the sriracha amount based on your preferred spice level.
- Set Aside: Let the dressing sit for at least 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Assembling the Salad
- Prepare the Vegetables: In a large salad bowl, combine the shredded cabbage, shredded carrots, chopped green onions, chopped cilantro, and chopped mint.
- Add the Chicken: Add the cooked and shredded chicken to the bowl with the vegetables.
- Toss the Salad: Pour the prepared dressing over the salad. Toss well to ensure all the ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
- Add the Almonds: Sprinkle the slivered almonds on top of the salad for added crunch.
- Serve: Serve the salad immediately. If desired, garnish with additional fresh herbs or a sprinkle of sesame seeds.
Cooking Notes and Variations
Cooking Notes:
- Chicken: Use rotisserie chicken for convenience, or cook and shred your own chicken breast. Grilled chicken also adds a nice smoky flavor.
- Vegetable Prep: Use a mandoline slicer to make quick work of shredding the cabbage and carrots evenly.
- Dressing: Make the dressing in advance and store it in the refrigerator. It can be kept for up to a week in a sealed container.
Variations:
- Nuts and Seeds: Substitute slivered almonds with toasted sesame seeds, sunflower seeds, or chopped peanuts.
- Vegetarian: Omit the chicken and add tofu or chickpeas for a vegetarian version.
- Additional Veggies: Add other vegetables like bell peppers, cucumber, or snap peas for extra crunch and color.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I make this salad ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the salad ingredients and dressing ahead of time. Store the vegetables and chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Keep the dressing separate and add it just before serving to maintain the salad’s crunchiness.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The salad will keep for up to 2 days, though it’s best enjoyed fresh. The cabbage may soften slightly but will still be delicious.
Q: Can I use a different type of cabbage?
A: Absolutely! You can use Napa cabbage, red cabbage, or a mix of both for a colorful presentation.
Q: How do I make the salad spicier?
A: Increase the amount of sriracha in the dressing or add a finely chopped fresh chili pepper to the salad for an extra kick.
Q: Can I use a different type of nut oil?
A: Yes, you can use peanut oil or walnut oil instead of avocado oil for a different flavor profile.
Sesame Chicken Salad is a fresh, flavorful, and nutritious dish that’s perfect for any meal. The combination of crunchy vegetables, tender chicken, and a tangy sesame dressing creates a harmonious blend of textures and tastes. This salad is easy to prepare, customizable, and sure to become a favorite. Try this recipe today and enjoy a delicious, homemade salad that’s both healthy and satisfying!
