Bringing together a medley of flavors, Asian chicken salad is perfect for a light lunch or a lively dinner side. Before diving in, consider pairing it with some items that will take this dish to the next level.
Fresh spring rolls, steamed dumplings, or even a zesty miso soup make fantastic companions. Let’s embark on the adventure of making an Asian chicken salad that dazzles the palate and nourishes the body.
A warm afternoon, the sun shining down, friends gathered around, and you proudly presenting a colorful bowl of Asian chicken salad. Your heart swells with joy as their eyes light up.
There’s something about this dish that brings a smile to the face. Perhaps it’s the vibrant veggies or the tender chunks of chicken. Or maybe it’s the splash of tangy dressing that dances across the palate. The beauty of this salad is not just in its taste but also in its versatility and ease of preparation.
This recipe stands out not only because of its flavors but also due to my personal experience as a registered dietitian. Understanding nutritional needs while ensuring taste has been my mission, and this salad is the perfect embodiment of that. I’ve experimented, tasted, and refined each element to bring you a dish that doesn’t compromise on flavor or nutrition.
What is Asian Chicken Salad?
Asian chicken salad is a refreshing dish that combines beautifully cooked chicken, crunchy vegetables, and a harmonious dressing that often features soy sauce and sesame oil.
Originating from various Asian culinary traditions, it embraces diverse ingredients such as edamame, carrots, and crunchy chow mein noodles.
This salad is a symphony of textures: you have the softness of chicken, the crispiness of vegetables, and the delightful crunch of almonds or chow mein noodles.
For me, it felt like reuniting with old friends after a long time, each ingredient bringing its own characters and stories to the gathering.
What is the Flavor Profile of This Dish?
The flavor profile of Asian chicken salad dances between sweet, salty, and umami. Tamari or soy sauce provides a savory depth, while fresh ginger and garlic add a hint of spice.
The brown sugar rounds out the flavors with a whisper of sweetness. And let’s not ignore that nutty essence from the sesame oil.
Each bite brings a new experience. Sometimes you get the crunch from a perfectly toasted almond, while at other moments, the soft edamame takes center stage. It never gets boring! If you like varied textures and tastes, you’ll find joy in every forkful.
Why You’ll Love This?
This salad is a superstar for many reasons:
1. Health Conscious: Packed with protein from chicken and plant sources like edamame, it delivers a nutrient boost.
2. Versatile: Swap ingredients based on what’s in your pantry or what you prefer.
3. Make-Ahead Friendly: Perfect for meal prepping. It stores well and can be served cold or at room temperature.
4. Crowd-Pleaser: It works for various occasions – potlucks, barbecues, or just a quick weeknight dinner.
5. Taste Explosion: With its complex yet harmonious flavors, each bite is a mini-celebration.
Ingredients
Here’s what you need to make this delicious salad:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup tamari sauce (or soy sauce)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons Chinese Five Spice powder
- 2 cups shredded carrots
- 2 cups cooked and shelled edamame beans
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 2–3 cups shredded mixed lettuce or cabbage slaw
- 1/4 cup finely chopped green onions
- 1/2 cup whole almonds, roughly chopped
- 2 cups crispy chow mein noodles (dried)
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- Optional: Toasted sesame seeds for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Marinating the Chicken
Begin by marinating the chicken. In a bowl, combine tamari, minced garlic, grated ginger, brown sugar, and Chinese five spice. Mix well. Add the chicken breasts, ensuring they are fully coated. Let this sit for 30 minutes to soak up those mouthwatering flavors.
Step 2: Cooking the Chicken
After the chicken has marinated, it’s time to cook. You can grill, bake, or pan-sear the chicken. If grilling, heat your grill to medium-high and cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
If you’re baking, preheat your oven to 375°F. Place the marinated chicken on a baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes. Once done, let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing it into bite-sized pieces.
Step 3: Preparing the Veggies
While the chicken is cooking, prepare your vegetables. Shred the carrots, chop the green onions, and if using, finely chop the cilantro. A little tip here: using a box grater for the carrots can save time and give you the beautiful shreds we’re looking for.
Step 4: Making the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together rice vinegar, sesame oil, and a splash more of tamari or soy sauce to your liking. This will bring the salad together, providing that kick we want with every bite.
Step 5: Assembling the Salad
Once the chicken is cooked and sliced, it’s time to assemble the salad. In a large mixing bowl, combine shredded lettuce or cabbage, carrots, edamame, and green onions. Add in the chicken pieces and pour the dressing over the top. Toss gently until everything is coated evenly.
Step 6: Adding Crunch
For added texture, toss in the chopped almonds and crispy chow mein noodles. This step is crucial, as it brings that delightful crunch and contrast to the other tender ingredients.
Step 7: Plating and Garnishing
Finally, plate the salad in a large bowl or individual servings. Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds over the top for an inviting finish.
Tips & Tricks
- Marinate Overnight: For an even deeper flavor, marinate the chicken overnight.
- Chill the Salad: If you can, let the salad chill for 30 minutes before serving. The flavors meld beautifully with time.
- Mix Textures: Don’t hesitate to introduce more crunchy elements like water chestnuts or snap peas.
- Herb Variations: If cilantro isn’t your thing, swap it out for fresh mint or basil.
- Protein Options: Rotisserie chicken is a quick alternative if you’re short on time.
How Can You Store This Asian Chicken Salad?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days. However, it’s best to keep the crunchy toppings separate to maintain their delightful texture until you’re ready to enjoy.
What If Some of the Ingredients Are Not Available in Your Pantry?
If you find yourself missing an ingredient, don’t fret! You can easily adapt this recipe with a few substitutions.
- Tamari/Soy Sauce: Coconut aminos is a fantastic gluten-free option. It offers a slightly sweeter taste, which can complement the salad nicely.
- Edamame: Chickpeas can step in for edamame. They provide a similar texture and a good protein boost.
- Chicken: Tofu is a great plant-based protein alternative. It soaks up flavors and adds a lovely texture to the salad.
Asian Chicken Salad Recipe
Equipment
- Bowl
Ingredients
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup tamari sauce or soy sauce
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons Chinese Five Spice powder
- 2 cups shredded carrots
- 2 cups cooked and shelled edamame beans
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro chopped
- 2 –3 cups shredded mixed lettuce or cabbage slaw
- 1/4 cup finely chopped green onions
- 1/2 cup whole almonds roughly chopped
- 2 cups crispy chow mein noodles dried
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
Instructions
- Begin by marinating the chicken. In a bowl, combine tamari, minced garlic, grated ginger, brown sugar, and Chinese five spice. Mix well. Add the chicken breasts, ensuring they are fully coated. Let this sit for 30 minutes to soak up those mouthwatering flavors.
- After the chicken has marinated, it’s time to cook. You can grill, bake, or pan-sear the chicken. If grilling, heat your grill to medium-high and cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- If you’re baking, preheat your oven to 375°F. Place the marinated chicken on a baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes. Once done, let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing it into bite-sized pieces.
- While the chicken is cooking, prepare your vegetables. Shred the carrots, chop the green onions, and if using, finely chop the cilantro. A little tip here: using a box grater for the carrots can save time and give you the beautiful shreds we’re looking for.
- In a small bowl, whisk together rice vinegar, sesame oil, and a splash more of tamari or soy sauce to your liking. This will bring the salad together, providing that kick we want with every bite.
- Once the chicken is cooked and sliced, it’s time to assemble the salad. In a large mixing bowl, combine shredded lettuce or cabbage, carrots, edamame, and green onions. Add in the chicken pieces and pour the dressing over the top. Toss gently until everything is coated evenly.
- For added texture, toss in the chopped almonds and crispy chow mein noodles. This step is crucial, as it brings that delightful crunch and contrast to the other tender ingredients.
- Finally, plate the salad in a large bowl or individual servings. Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds over the top for an inviting finish.
Notes
- Marinate Overnight: For an even deeper flavor, marinate the chicken overnight.
- Chill the Salad: If you can, let the salad chill for 30 minutes before serving. The flavors meld beautifully with time.
- Mix Textures: Don’t hesitate to introduce more crunchy elements like water chestnuts or snap peas.
- Herb Variations: If cilantro isn’t your thing, swap it out for fresh mint or basil.
- Protein Options: Rotisserie chicken is a quick alternative if you’re short on time.
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
Conclusion
With all its vibrant flavors and fresh ingredients, Asian chicken salad is more than just a dish; it’s an engaging experience. As you gather around the table with loved ones, sharing laughter and stories, let the salad serve as a bridge between flavors and memories.
Whether you adapt it, make it vegan, or stick to the classic recipe, one thing is clear: every bite reminds you of the joy found in simple, wholesome food.
So grab your chopping board, flex those culinary muscles, and dive into this colorful dish that’s bound to become a favorite in your home.
