Looking for a vibrant and refreshing dish that’s packed with flavor and crunch? Dive into the delightful world of our Sesame Chopped Chicken Salad! This Asian-inspired recipe combines tender chicken, crisp mixed greens, and a medley of colorful vegetables, all brought together with a savory sesame dressing that will have your taste buds dancing. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a light lunch, this salad is not only delicious but also easy to prepare in just 40 minutes. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this healthy and satisfying dish that’s sure to become a favorite!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Asiatique
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 chicken breasts, cooked and chopped
- 4 cups mixed greens
- 1/2 cup shredded carrots
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds
- 2 tablespoons sesame seeds
- 1/4 cup green onions, sliced
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
Instructions
- Begin by preparing the chicken breasts. If they are not already cooked, you can grill, bake, or poach them until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Once cooked, let them cool for a few minutes before chopping them into bite-sized pieces.
- While the chicken is cooling, wash and dry the mixed greens thoroughly. You can use a salad spinner for this purpose. Once dry, place the mixed greens in a large salad bowl.
- Add the shredded carrots to the bowl with the mixed greens. This will add a nice crunch and sweetness to the salad.
- Next, add the chopped chicken to the bowl, ensuring it is evenly distributed among the greens and carrots.
- In a small dry skillet over medium heat, toast the sliced almonds and sesame seeds. Stir frequently for about 3-5 minutes until they are golden and fragrant. Be careful not to burn them.
- Once toasted, add the almonds and sesame seeds to the salad bowl, reserving a small amount for garnish if desired.
- Slice the green onions and add them to the salad. The green onions will add a fresh, mild onion flavor that complements the other ingredients.
- In a separate bowl, prepare the dressing by whisking together the soy sauce, sesame oil, and rice vinegar. This dressing will provide a savory and slightly tangy flavor that ties the salad together.
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad and gently toss all the ingredients together until everything is well coated with the dressing.
- Serve the salad immediately, garnishing with any reserved toasted almonds and sesame seeds. Enjoy your delicious Sesame Chopped Chicken Salad!
Tips
- Cook Chicken to Perfection: Ensure your chicken breasts are cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Grilling or baking adds a nice flavor, but poaching keeps them juicy and tender.
- Choose Fresh Greens: Opt for a mix of your favorite salad greens for added texture and flavor. Spinach, arugula, or romaine work wonderfully!
- Toast for Flavor: Don’t skip toasting the almonds and sesame seeds! This step enhances their flavor and adds a delightful crunch to your salad.
- Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to add other veggies like bell peppers, cucumbers, or cherry tomatoes to make the salad even more colorful and nutritious.
- Make Ahead: If you’re short on time, you can prepare the chicken and chop the veggies in advance. Just toss everything together with the dressing right before serving for the freshest taste.
- Dressing Variations: Experiment with the dressing! Add a touch of honey for sweetness or a splash of lime juice for an extra zing.
- Serve Cold or Room Temperature: This salad is delicious served cold, but it can also be enjoyed at room temperature, making it a versatile option for picnics or potlucks.With these tips in hand, you’re ready to create a Sesame Chopped Chicken Salad that’s not only delicious but also a feast for the eyes!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 10g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 95mg
