Quick Asian Sesame Chicken Salad: High-Protein Meal (Print Version)
Enjoy a quick, high-protein Asian Sesame Chicken Salad. This healthy, flavorful meal is perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep. Easy to make and satisfying.
# Recipe Info:
Prep Time: 15 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 10 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4 Servings
Difficulty: Beginner
Cuisine: Asian
Dietary: Dairy-Free, Low-Calorie
# Ingredients:
→ High-Protein Core
01 -
1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
02 -
1 tbsp olive oil
03 -
Salt and black pepper to taste
→ Vibrant Greens & Veggies
04 -
6 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
05 -
1 1/2 cups red cabbage, shredded
06 -
1 cup carrots, shredded
07 -
1 cup red bell pepper, thinly sliced
→ Umami Sesame Dressing
08 -
1/4 cup rice vinegar
09 -
3 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
10 -
2 tbsp toasted sesame oil
11 -
1 tbsp honey
12 -
1 tsp fresh ginger, grated
13 -
1 clove garlic, minced
→ Crunchy Toppers & Aromatics
14 -
2 tbsp sesame seeds, toasted
15 -
1/4 cup green onions, sliced for garnish
16 -
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped for garnish
# Instructions:
01 -
Season 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts with salt and black pepper to taste. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, until an internal temperature of 165°F is reached. Remove, let rest for 5 minutes, then shred or slice for your Asian Sesame Chicken Salad: Quick & High-Protein.
02 -
In a small bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup rice vinegar, 3 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce, 2 tbsp toasted sesame oil, 1 tbsp honey, 1 tsp fresh ginger (grated), and 1 clove garlic (minced). This vibrant Umami Sesame Dressing is key to the delicious flavor profile of your Asian Sesame Chicken Salad: Quick & High-Protein.
03 -
In a large salad bowl, combine 6 cups romaine lettuce (chopped), 1.5 cups red cabbage (shredded), 1 cup carrots (shredded), and 1 cup red bell pepper (thinly sliced). Ensure all vegetables are fresh and crisp, providing a delightful texture contrast in every bite of your salad.
04 -
If your 2 tbsp sesame seeds are not already toasted, gently toast them in a dry skillet over medium-low heat for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and lightly golden. Watch carefully to prevent burning, as these Crunchy Toppers & Aromatics add a crucial nutty flavor and crunch.
05 -
Add the cooked and shredded 1.5 lbs chicken breasts to the large bowl with the prepared Vibrant Greens & Veggies. Pour the whisked Umami Sesame Dressing over the chicken and vegetables. Toss gently to ensure everything is evenly coated, creating a harmonious Asian Sesame Chicken Salad: Quick & High-Protein.
06 -
Divide the dressed salad among four plates. Garnish each serving generously with the 2 tbsp toasted sesame seeds, 1/4 cup green onions (sliced), and 1/4 cup fresh cilantro (chopped). Serve immediately and enjoy this satisfying, high-protein meal!
# Notes:
01 -
Make Ahead Tip: For meal prep, cook the chicken and prepare the dressing and vegetables separately. Store them in airtight containers and combine just before serving to maintain freshness and crunch.
02 -
Protein Boost: Feel free to add edamame or a sprinkle of chopped peanuts for extra protein and texture, enhancing the salad experience.
03 -
Dressing Customization: Adjust the honey or soy sauce in the dressing to suit your taste preferences. A pinch of red pepper flakes can add a subtle kick if you enjoy a little heat.
04 -
Storage: Leftover salad is best stored undressed in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Store any remaining dressing separately in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
# Tools You'll Need:
01 -
Large mixing bowl
02 -
Whisk
03 -
Cutting board
04 -
Sharp knife
05 -
Skillet or grill pan
06 -
Measuring cups and spoons
# Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
Calories: 461 kcal
Total Fat: 19 g
Total Carbohydrate: 16 g
Protein: 56 g