Asian Chicken Salad with Sesame Dressing

Asian Chicken Salad with Sesame Dressing is a refreshing fusion-style dish that perfectly balances crunchy vegetables, tender chicken, and a flavorful nutty dressing.Inspired by East Asian cuisine, this salad brings together bold flavors like sesame, soy sauce, ginger, honey, and rice vinegar to create a tangy, savory, and slightly sweet profile.

Whether served as a light lunch or a hearty dinner, this salad feels vibrant, colorful, and satisfying — without being heavy.What makes this dish truly special is its contrast: juicy chicken slices paired with crisp cabbage, sweet mandarin oranges, crunchy almonds, and toasty sesame seeds.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it delivers so much flavor with minimal effort. The sesame dressing is truly the star — velvety, fragrant, and better than anything bottled.

The salad feels healthy yet indulgent, satisfying cravings without weighing you down. It’s also incredibly versatile: you can serve it warm or cold, use rotisserie chicken for convenience, or grill fresh chicken for extra depth.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

• Perfect Balance of Flavors — sweet, salty, tangy, and savory in one bowl
• Restaurant-Quality — feels like something from a trendy Asian bistro
• Healthy and Nutritious — loaded with protein, fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants
• Customizable — swap ingredients based on preferences or availability
• Meal Prep Friendly — stays fresh and delicious for days

If you’re looking for something fresh, flavorful, and satisfying, this salad deserves a spot on your table.

Recipe Details

• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Course: Lunch / Dinner / Salad
• Cuisine: Asian Fusion
• Approximate Calories per Serving: 420–460 kcal

Ingredients

For the Salad:

• 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or sliced
• 3 cups shredded cabbage (green or mix with purple)
• 1 ½ cups romaine lettuce or spinach (roughly chopped)
• 1 carrot, julienned
• ½ red bell pepper, thinly sliced
• ½ cup sliced almonds or roasted peanuts
• 2 green onions, finely sliced
• ½ cup mandarin orange segments (optional but recommended)
• 2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds

For the Sesame Dressing:

• ¼ cup rice vinegar
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons sesame oil
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon ginger (freshly grated)
• 1 small garlic clove, finely minced
• 1 tablespoon mayonnaise or Greek yogurt (optional for creamy texture)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Directions

1. Cook or shred chicken and prep salad vegetables.
2. Whisk together the dressing ingredients until smooth.
3. Toss all salad ingredients in a large bowl, reserving nuts and sesame seeds.
4. Pour dressing and mix well.
5. Top with toasted nuts, seeds, and mandarin oranges.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1 — Prepare the Chicken

• Use cooked rotisserie chicken OR grill seasoned chicken breast.
• Thinly slice or shred and set aside.

Step 2 — Prepare the Vegetables

• Wash and dry vegetables well.
• Slice cabbage, romaine, bell peppers, carrots, and green onions.

Step 3 — Make the Sesame Dressing

• In a small bowl or jar, whisk together:
  • Rice vinegar
  • Soy sauce
  • Sesame oil
  • Olive oil
  • Honey
  • Garlic
  • Ginger
• Adjust salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4 — Assemble the Salad

• Add all vegetables and chicken to a mixing bowl.
• Pour dressing over and toss gently.

Step 5 — Add Finishing Touches

• Sprinkle toasted almonds and sesame seeds.
• Add mandarin oranges last to avoid breaking.

How to Serve

Serve immediately in chilled salad bowls for the freshest texture. Add extra nuts or sesame seeds for crunch and drizzle a bit more dressing if desired. Pair with iced green tea, jasmine rice, or crispy wonton strips.

Recipe Tips

• Chill dressing before serving for best flavor.
• Toast nuts and sesame seeds for a deeper flavor.
• Use rotisserie chicken for a quick, fuss-free version.

Variations

• Spicy Version: Add sriracha or chili flakes.
• Creamier Version: Add 2 tablespoons peanut butter to dressing.
• Vegetarian: Replace chicken with tofu or chickpeas.
• Low-Carb: Skip oranges and carrots and add avocado.

Freezing and Storage

• Salad: Best eaten fresh — lasts 2 days in the refrigerator without dressing.
• Dressing: Store separately for up to 10 days in the fridge.
• Do NOT freeze as ingredients lose texture and flavor.

Special Equipment Needed

• Sharp knife
• Whisk or small blender for dressing
• Large salad mixing bowl
• Cutting board

FAQ

Can I make this ahead?

Yes — prep all ingredients and store dressing separately until serving.

Can I replace soy sauce?

Yes, coconut aminos or tamari work perfectly.

Can I serve it warm?

Absolutely! Warm grilled chicken tastes amazing with cold crunchy veggies.

Conclusion

Asian Chicken Salad with Sesame Dressing is fresh, bold, and satisfying — a perfect combination of health and flavor. It’s easy enough for a weekday meal yet special enough to serve at gatherings or potlucks. With crunchy textures, vibrant colors, and delicious sesame dressing, this recipe is one you’ll want to enjoy again and again.