Print

Asian Sesame Chicken Salad Recipe

4.8 from 97 reviews

A vibrant and healthy Asian Sesame Chicken Salad combining crunchy shredded cabbages, sweet carrots, protein-rich edamame, and tender grilled chicken breasts. Tossed in a flavorful sesame-ginger vinaigrette, this salad is perfect for a light lunch or dinner, offering a delightful balance of textures and bold Asian-inspired flavors.

Ingredients

Scale

Salad

  • 2 cups shredded green cabbage
  • 1 cup shredded red cabbage
  • 1 cup shredded carrots
  • 1 cup shelled edamame (steamed)
  • 2 grilled chicken breasts, sliced or shredded
  • 2 green onions, sliced
  • Optional toppings: sesame seeds, sliced almonds, wonton strips, cilantro

Sesame-Ginger Vinaigrette

  • 3 tablespoons rice vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
  • 1 small garlic clove, minced
  • Optional: splash of lime juice or sriracha for a kick

Instructions

  1. Combine Vegetables: In a large bowl, mix the shredded green cabbage, red cabbage, shredded carrots, steamed shelled edamame, and sliced green onions until evenly distributed.
  2. Add Chicken: Place the sliced or shredded grilled chicken breasts on top of the mixed vegetables to layer the protein nicely over the base of the salad.
  3. Prepare Vinaigrette: Whisk together rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, olive oil, honey, grated fresh ginger, and minced garlic in a small bowl until the dressing is smooth and well combined. Optionally add lime juice or sriracha for extra zest.
  4. Toss Salad: Pour the sesame-ginger vinaigrette over the salad and gently toss all ingredients to coat them evenly with the dressing, ensuring all flavors meld beautifully.
  5. Serve: Sprinkle your choice of sesame seeds, sliced almonds, wonton strips, or fresh cilantro over the salad for added texture and flavor. Serve immediately to enjoy the freshness and crunch.

Notes

  • For a vegetarian version, omit the grilled chicken or substitute with tofu or tempeh.
  • To save time, use pre-shredded cabbage and pre-cooked chicken if desired.
  • Adjust the amount of sriracha or lime juice in the dressing to suit your taste preference.
  • This salad is best served fresh as the dressing will soften the vegetables over time.
  • Edamame can be steamed fresh or purchased frozen and thawed.

Keywords: Asian sesame chicken salad, grilled chicken salad, healthy Asian salad, sesame ginger vinaigrette, edamame salad