This Sesame Ginger Chicken Salad offers a delightful, healthy twist on classic chicken salad, perfect for a light lunch or dinner. You’ll love its vibrant flavors and satisfying texture. This is a fantastic addition to your collection of Healthy Chicken Salad Recipes.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions:
- Cooked Chicken Breast: Use rotisserie chicken or leftover cooked chicken for convenience.
- Mayonnaise: You can use Greek yogurt for a lighter, tangier dressing.
- Sesame Oil: Essential for flavor; a good quality toasted sesame oil makes a difference.
- Fresh Ginger: Powdered ginger can work in a pinch, but fresh offers superior flavor.
- Soy Sauce/Tamari: Tamari is a great gluten-free alternative.
- Cabbage: Napa cabbage or a pre-shredded coleslaw mix works well.
- Carrots: Shredded carrots add sweetness and crunch.
Ingredients:
For the Salad:
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced
- 2 cups shredded green cabbage
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1/2 cup chopped bell pepper (any color)
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds, plus more for garnish
For the Dressing:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (optional, for a touch of sweetness)
- Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cook time: 0 minutes (if using pre-cooked chicken)
- Total time: 15 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories per serving: 350
- Tools needed: Large mixing bowl, whisk, measuring cups and spoons
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Chicken
Ensure your cooked chicken is cooled and shredded or diced into bite-sized pieces. Place it in a large mixing bowl.
2. Combine Salad Vegetables
Add the shredded cabbage, carrots, chopped bell pepper, and green onions to the bowl with the chicken. Gently toss everything together.
3. Whisk the Dressing Ingredients
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, grated ginger, minced garlic, and optional honey and red pepper flakes. Whisk until smooth and well combined.
4. Dress the Salad
Pour the prepared dressing over the chicken and vegetable mixture. Toss gently until all ingredients are evenly coated.
5. Add Toasted Sesame Seeds
Stir in the 2 tablespoons of toasted sesame seeds. This adds another layer of nutty flavor and crunch to your Healthy Chicken Salad Recipes creation.
6. Serve and Garnish
Serve immediately, or chill for at least 30 minutes for flavors to meld. Garnish with additional toasted sesame seeds before serving.
Variation Ideas:
- Add mandarin oranges for a sweet and citrusy burst.
- Include chopped peanuts or cashews for extra crunch.
- Serve in lettuce cups for a low-carb option.
- Mix in edamame for added protein and green color.
Storage Instructions:
Store any leftover Sesame Ginger Chicken Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. This salad is best enjoyed chilled, so no reheating is necessary.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the salad and dressing separately, then combine them just before serving for the freshest taste.
What kind of chicken should I use?
Any cooked chicken works well, such as baked, poached, or rotisserie chicken. Shredding or dicing are both great options.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
You can easily make it gluten-free by using tamari instead of soy sauce.
How can I make this salad spicier?
Add extra red pepper flakes to the dressing, or include a dash of sriracha.
Can I use different vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize with other crunchy vegetables you enjoy, like snap peas or cucumbers.
What are some serving suggestions?
Enjoy it on its own, in lettuce wraps, in a sandwich, or as a side dish. It’s a versatile addition to your Healthy Chicken Salad Recipes repertoire.