Crunchy Asian Sesame Chicken Salad

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When it comes to flavor-packed salads that satisfy every craving, this Crunchy Asian Sesame Chicken Salad delivers on all fronts. It brings together juicy chicken, crisp vegetables, nutty sesame dressing, and crunchy noodles to create a bowl of freshness and crunch that’s anything but boring. It’s the kind of meal that feels light but still leaves you feeling full and happy.

What makes this salad even more appealing is how quick it comes together. Whether you’re whipping it up for lunch, dinner, or meal prep, it doesn’t require complicated steps or rare ingredients. It combines everything you love about Asian-inspired flavors with textures that pop in every bite. Once you try it, it’ll be your go-to for clean eating with serious taste.

Why You’ll Love This Crunchy Asian Sesame Chicken Salad

This salad is the perfect harmony of fresh, tangy, sweet, and savory. The sesame dressing has that roasted, nutty flavor that pairs so beautifully with grilled chicken. Add in the crunch from cabbage, carrots, and crispy noodles, and you have a satisfying dish that tastes like a restaurant favorite but is completely homemade. It’s also incredibly customizable. You can easily swap in your favorite greens, use leftover chicken, or add toppings like edamame, almonds, or even mandarin oranges.

What Kind of Chicken Works Best?

You can use grilled, baked, or even rotisserie chicken for this salad. The most important part is that the chicken is tender and well-seasoned. I love using grilled chicken thighs marinated in a little soy sauce and sesame oil for extra flavor, but skinless chicken breasts work just as well. If you’re in a pinch, shredded rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver.

Ingredients for the Crunchy Asian Sesame Chicken Salad

This salad uses fresh, flavorful ingredients that add crunch, color, and protein to every bite. You can prepare everything ahead of time, making it ideal for meal prepping your lunches for the week.

• Chicken: Provides the savory protein base and absorbs the sesame dressing beautifully.
• Shredded Cabbage: Adds volume and crunch, perfect for holding up under dressing without wilting.
• Carrots: Sweet and colorful, they bring a fresh flavor and pair perfectly with the sesame profile.
• Green Onions: Mild but zesty, they add a sharp finish that brightens the whole salad.
• Chow Mein Noodles: These add that irresistible crunch you expect in every bite.
• Sesame Seeds: Boost the nutty flavor and give the salad even more texture.
• Cilantro: Optional, but it brings a herbal brightness that balances the tangy dressing.
• Asian Sesame Dressing: The star of the show, tying all the elements together with a sweet-savory punch.

How To Make the Crunchy Asian Sesame Chicken Salad

Step 1: Prep the Chicken

Season your chicken with salt, pepper, and a splash of sesame oil. Grill, bake, or sauté until fully cooked. Let it rest before slicing it thinly against the grain.

Step 2: Chop the Veggies

Shred the cabbage and carrots if they aren’t already prepped. Thinly slice the green onions and roughly chop the cilantro if using. Toss them together in a large bowl.

Step 3: Make the Sesame Dressing

In a small bowl or jar, mix together sesame oil, rice vinegar, soy sauce, honey, garlic, and a little ginger. Shake or whisk until well combined.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad

Add the cooked chicken to the bowl of veggies. Drizzle the sesame dressing generously and toss to coat. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and top with crunchy chow mein noodles just before serving.

Step 5: Serve Fresh

Serve immediately for maximum crunch, or store the components separately and assemble when ready to eat.

How to Serve and Store Crunchy Asian Sesame Chicken Salad

This salad serves 4 people as a main dish or 6 as a side. If you’re planning to prep this for meals throughout the week, keep the dressing and crunchy noodles separate until you’re ready to eat. Store the salad base and chicken in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy, toss everything together fresh.

What to Serve With Crunchy Asian Sesame Chicken Salad?

Steamed Jasmine Rice

A fluffy, fragrant rice that’s perfect if you want to make this salad into a heartier meal.

Spicy Edamame

These make a great protein-packed side snack that complements the Asian flavors.

Miso Soup

A warm and soothing starter that brings comforting umami.

Fresh Spring Rolls

Light and crisp rolls with a touch of peanut sauce go beautifully alongside this salad.

Sesame Garlic Noodles

Serve chilled or warm, these bring a savory kick and work well as a side dish.

Cucumber Salad

Cool and crisp, cucumber salad adds even more freshness to your plate.

Fruit Skewers with Mint

A sweet contrast to the savory sesame flavors, these are especially nice in warmer months.

Chicken Potstickers

Crispy little dumplings add a fun, indulgent side to round out the meal.

Want More Salad Ideas with an Asian Twist?

If you enjoy the bright, fresh flavors of this Crunchy Asian Sesame Chicken Salad, you’ll love exploring these other tasty meals:

• Honeycrisp Apple Broccoli Salad Recipe for a crunchy, sweet twist.
• Spinach Pasta Salad with Feta and Cranberries for something creamy and tangy.
• Creamy Broccoli Pasta if you want a warm twist on greens.
• Mediterranean Salmon Patties for a seafood variation with herbs.
• Zesty Lemon Basil Chicken Pasta Salad that’s bright, filling, and flavorful.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest salad board so you can revisit it whenever you’re craving something light yet satisfying.

I’d love to hear what toppings you tried! Did you go traditional or throw in some mandarin oranges? Feel free to share your twist in the comments below.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting salads and more on Mia Recipes on Pinterest and discover your new go-to for feeling fresh and energized.

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