Looking for a quick weeknight dinner solution? This easy homemade Crunchy Asian Sesame Chicken Salad recipe is a family favorite, made with crispy chicken, sesame seeds and fresh veggies, save for later

Crunchy Asian Sesame Chicken Salad Recipe for Dinner

Introduction

Are you looking for a salad recipe that combines the crunch of fresh vegetables, the savory flavor of chicken, and the nutty taste of sesame, all in one delicious bowl? Look no further than our Crunchy Asian Sesame Chicken Salad Recipe for Dinner. This dish is not only easy to make but also packed with flavor, using everyday ingredients that you might already have in your pantry. The best part? It’s incredibly versatile, allowing you to get creative with your favorite toppings and ingredients. Whether you’re a busy professional looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a food enthusiast seeking a new recipe to impress your family and friends, this salad is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Why This Works

Flavor balance and ingredient accessibility: The combination of Asian-inspired flavors like soy sauce, ginger, and sesame oil with the natural sweetness of vegetables creates a harmonious balance of tastes. Plus, the ingredients are easily found in most supermarkets, making this recipe accessible to anyone.
Ease of preparation: Despite its impressive flavor profile, this salad is surprisingly easy to prepare. With a few simple steps, you can have a restaurant-quality meal on your table in no time.
Impressive results with minimal effort: The key to this recipe’s success lies in its simplicity. By using pre-cooked chicken and pre-washed greens, you can save time without sacrificing flavor or quality. The result is a dish that looks and tastes like it was made in a professional kitchen, but with minimal effort required.

Key Ingredients

The main ingredients in this recipe include 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breasts, 2 cups of mixed greens, 1 cup of sliced red bell peppers, 1 cup of sliced cucumbers, 1/2 cup of cherry tomatoes, halved, 1/4 cup of sliced red onions, 1/4 cup of chopped fresh cilantro, 2 tablespoons of sesame oil, 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of honey, 1 teaspoon of grated fresh ginger, and 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes. For the crunchy topping, you’ll need 1/4 cup of chopped peanuts or cashews and 1/4 cup of sesame seeds. Practical substitutions include using leftover roasted chicken instead of cooking chicken breasts, swapping soy sauce with tamari for a gluten-free option, and replacing sesame oil with avocado oil for a milder flavor.

Instructions

Step 1: Begin by preparing your ingredients. Chop the cilantro, slice the bell peppers and cucumbers, halve the cherry tomatoes, and slice the red onions. If using raw chicken, season it with salt and pepper.
Step 2: Cook the chicken. If using raw chicken, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned on both sides and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes per side. Let the chicken rest before slicing it into strips. If using pre-cooked chicken, slice it into strips and set aside.
Step 3: Layer the flavors and textures. In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, sliced bell peppers, cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and red onions. In a small bowl, whisk together the sesame oil, soy sauce, honey, grated ginger, and red pepper flakes. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine. Add the sliced chicken and toss gently to combine.
Step 4: Add the crunchy topping. In a small skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped nuts and cook, stirring frequently, until fragrant and lightly toasted, about 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in the sesame seeds. Sprinkle the nut and seed mixture over the salad and serve immediately.

Handy Tips

To avoid sogginess, dress the salad just before serving. If preparing ahead, store the dressing and salad components separately in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
For an extra crunchy topping, try adding some crispy fried wonton strips or toasted coconut flakes to the nut and seed mixture.
Don’t overdress the salad. You want the flavors to meld together without the salad becoming too soggy or overwhelmed by the dressing.

Heat Control

If cooking raw chicken, it’s essential to cook it to the recommended internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure food safety. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, especially when cooking chicken breasts. For the crunchy topping, heat control is also crucial. You want to toast the nuts and seeds until fragrant and lightly browned, but not burnt. Keep an eye on the heat and stir frequently to avoid burning.

Crunch Factor

The crunch factor in this salad comes from the combination of toasted nuts and seeds, crispy vegetables, and the satisfying bite of the chicken. To achieve the perfect crunch, make sure not to overcook the chicken or the vegetables. You want them to retain some of their natural texture and crunch. Additionally, toasting the nuts and seeds until fragrant and lightly browned adds a delightful crunch to the salad.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

Use a salad spinner to dry the mixed greens thoroughly before combining them with the other ingredients. This helps prevent sogginess and ensures the salad stays fresh.
Invest in a good-quality chef’s knife to make chopping and slicing the ingredients a breeze. A sharp knife makes all the difference in the world when it comes to food preparation.
Don’t be afraid to experiment with different ingredients and flavors. This salad is a versatile canvas, and you can customize it to your taste preferences and dietary needs.

Storage Tips

Store the salad components separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
Keep the dressing in a separate container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Give it a good stir before using.
If you’re planning to serve the salad at a later time, consider preparing the components ahead of time and storing them separately. Assemble the salad just before serving for the best flavor and texture.

Gift Packaging Ideas

If you’re looking to gift this salad to a friend or family member, consider packaging it in a beautiful jar or container. Start by adding a layer of mixed greens at the bottom of the jar, followed by a layer of sliced vegetables, then a layer of chicken, and finally a sprinkle of toasted nuts and seeds. Drizzle the dressing over the top and garnish with a sprinkle of sesame seeds and a few fresh cilantro leaves. Wrap the jar in a ribbon or twine and add a gift tag with the recipe and serving instructions.

Flavor Variations

🌟 Different spices: Try adding some Korean chili flakes (gochugaru) for an extra spicy kick or some Chinese five-spice powder for a warm, aromatic flavor.
🌟 Creative toppings: Add some diced mango or pineapple for a sweet and tangy twist, or some crispy fried shallots for a satisfying crunch.
🌟 Ingredient swaps: Swap the chicken with cooked shrimp or tofu for a seafood or vegetarian option, or use different types of nuts and seeds for varying textures and flavors.

Troubleshooting

Texture problems: If the salad becomes too soggy, try adding some more toasted nuts or seeds to absorb excess moisture. If the chicken is overcooked, try using a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches the recommended internal temperature.
Ingredient replacements: If you can’t find sesame oil, try using avocado oil or grapeseed oil as a substitute. If you’re out of soy sauce, try using tamari or coconut aminos as a gluten-free alternative.
Over/undercooking signs: Keep an eye on the chicken’s internal temperature to avoid overcooking. If the vegetables are undercooked, try sautéing them for a few more minutes until they reach your desired level of tenderness.

FAQs

Can I freeze it? While you can freeze the cooked chicken and toasted nuts and seeds, it’s best to assemble the salad just before serving for the best flavor and texture.
Is it gluten-free? Yes, this salad is gluten-free, but be sure to check the ingredients of the soy sauce and sesame oil to ensure they are gluten-free. You can also use tamari or coconut aminos as a gluten-free alternative.
Can I double the recipe? Absolutely! This salad is perfect for large gatherings or meal prep. Simply double the ingredients and assemble the salad in a larger bowl or individual containers.

Conclusion

In conclusion, our Crunchy Asian Sesame Chicken Salad Recipe for Dinner is a game-changer for anyone looking for a delicious, easy, and customizable meal. With its perfect balance of flavors and textures, this salad is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different ingredients and flavors, and don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions or need further assistance. Happy cooking, and enjoy your delicious Crunchy Asian Sesame Chicken Salad!

Crunchy Asian Sesame Chicken Dinner Salad