Discover a delightful twist on a classic dish with "Mary's Special Sesame Chicken Salad"! This vibrant salad combines tender shredded chicken with the rich flavors of sesame oil and soy sauce, creating a mouthwatering experience that will leave your taste buds dancing. Perfect for a light lunch or as a refreshing dinner option, this recipe is not only quick to prepare—taking just 35 minutes from start to finish—but it's also packed with crunchy almonds and nutty sesame seeds that add a satisfying texture. Dive into this culinary adventure and impress your family and friends with a dish that’s as healthy as it is delicious!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Asian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1/4 cup sesame oil
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- 1/4 cup sesame seeds
- 1/4 cup almonds, sliced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by preparing the chicken. If not already cooked, grill or bake chicken breasts until fully cooked through, ensuring internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Allow chicken to cool completely before shredding.
- Using two forks, shred the cooked chicken into thin, bite-sized pieces, ensuring uniform texture throughout the meat.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken with sesame oil and soy sauce. Gently toss to ensure even coating of the chicken.
- Toast sesame seeds in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent burning. Remove from heat and let cool.
- Toast sliced almonds in the same skillet until light golden brown, watching carefully to prevent scorching. Set aside to cool.
- Finely chop green onions, including both white and green parts for maximum flavor.
- Add chopped green onions to the chicken mixture, stirring to distribute evenly.
- Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds and almonds over the chicken salad.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, mixing gently to incorporate all ingredients.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together before serving.
- Before serving, give the salad a final gentle stir and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve chilled as a main dish or over mixed greens.
Tips
- Chicken Preparation: For the best flavor, consider marinating the chicken in a mixture of sesame oil and soy sauce before cooking. This will infuse the meat with extra taste.
- Shredding Technique: Use two forks to shred the chicken, ensuring that you achieve a uniform texture. This makes the salad easier to eat and allows for better flavor distribution.
- Toasting Nuts and Seeds: Always toast your sesame seeds and almonds in a dry skillet. This enhances their flavors and adds a delightful crunch to your salad. Keep a close eye on them, as they can burn quickly!
- Chill for Flavor: Allow the salad to chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This resting time allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making every bite even more delicious.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve the salad over a bed of mixed greens for added freshness and color, or enjoy it on its own for a lighter option.
- Customize It: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables, such as bell peppers or cucumbers, for extra crunch and nutrition.With these tips in mind, you’re ready to create a sensational salad that will wow everyone at the table!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 5g
Protein: 30g
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 90mg
