Craving a restaurant-quality salad that's both quick and incredibly delicious? Look no further! Our Trader Joe's-inspired Asian Chopped Chicken Salad is about to revolutionize your lunch game. Imagine a vibrant bowl packed with tender chicken, crisp greens, and a perfectly balanced sesame dressing that will transport your taste buds to culinary heaven - and the best part? You can whip this gourmet meal together in just 25 minutes!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Asian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, chopped
- 4 cups mixed greens
- 1/2 cup shredded carrots
- 1/2 cup edamame
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds
- 1/4 cup sesame dressing
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken: If not already cooked, season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Grill, bake, or pan-sear until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Let cool for 5 minutes, then chop into bite-sized cubes.
- Prepare the vegetables: Wash mixed greens thoroughly and pat dry with paper towels or use a salad spinner to remove excess moisture.
- Thaw edamame if frozen by running under warm water or microwaving for 1-2 minutes. Drain completely.
- In a large salad bowl, combine mixed greens, chopped chicken, shredded carrots, and edamame.
- Toast sliced almonds in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent burning. Remove from heat and let cool.
- Drizzle sesame dressing over the salad and toss gently to ensure even coating.
- Sprinkle toasted almonds on top of the salad for added crunch.
- Season with additional salt and pepper to taste if desired.
- Serve immediately to maintain the salad's crisp texture and fresh flavors.
Tips
- Chicken Perfection: Always ensure your chicken is cooked to 165°F for food safety and maximum juiciness. Using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken can save even more time.
- Dressing Hack: For an extra flavor boost, slightly warm the sesame dressing before drizzling to help it coat the salad more evenly.
- Texture is Key: Toast your almonds slowly and watch carefully to prevent burning - they should be golden brown and fragrant.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Chop vegetables and cook chicken in advance to make assembly a breeze during busy weekdays.
- Keep it Fresh: Serve immediately after dressing to maintain the salad's crisp texture and prevent wilting.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 65mg
