A delightful and refreshing Sesame Chicken Salad, perfect for a light lunch or dinner. This salad features tender chicken, crunchy vegetables, and a flavorful sesame dressing.
Sesame chicken salad is one of those dishes that hits all the right notes, crunchy, savory, fresh, and just a little bit sweet. It’s the perfect meal when you want something light but still satisfying, and it’s easy enough to throw together for lunch, dinner, or even a potluck.
The base usually starts with crisp greens like romaine or napa cabbage, or mixed greens, which hold up well to the bold flavors and textures in the salad. Add shredded carrots and sliced cucumbers, and you’ve got a colorful mix that’s full of crunch and freshness. The vegetables balance beautifully with the star of the show: sesame chicken.
The chicken is typically cooked until golden and juicy, then tossed in a savory-sweet sesame dressing. Think soy sauce, sesame oil, a splash of rice vinegar, a touch of honey, and maybe a bit of garlic or ginger for depth. It’s bold without being overpowering and soaks into the chicken just enough to keep each bite flavorful.
Toppings take this salad to the next level. Toasted sesame seeds bring out the nuttiness of the dressing, while crunchy wonton strips, chopped peanuts, or sliced almonds add even more texture. A few slices of mandarin orange or a drizzle of spicy mayo can give it an unexpected twist and make it feel restaurant-worthy.
Sesame chicken salad is as versatile as it is delicious. It works as a full meal or a side, can be prepped ahead for weekday lunches, and feels fancy enough to serve guests without much effort. Plus, it’s easy to adjust to your taste, use grilled chicken for something lighter, go extra spicy if you like heat, or make it vegetarian with tofu.
This is one of those salads that never gets boring. It’s crisp, flavorful, and satisfying, with just the right mix of protein, veggies, and bold Asian-inspired flavors.
Ingredients
- 1 cup chicken breast cooked and shredded
- 2 cups mixed salad greens
- 1 small cucumber sliced
- 1 carrot grated
- 2 tablespoons sesame seeds toasted
- 3 tablespoons sesame dressing
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the mixed salad greens, sliced cucumber, and grated carrot.
- Add the cooked and shredded chicken breast to the salad.
- Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds over the salad.
- Drizzle sesame dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
- Serve immediately and enjoy your Sesame Chicken Salad.
Nutrition
Easy and quick to whip up! Perfect for a summer lunch. Just what I needed.
I don’t know, it seems pretty bland. I expected more flavor. Maybe add some spices next time?
Sesame chicken salad? Sounds like too healthy for me. I like my food fried and greasy.
Wow, this was delicious! I loved the crunch from the sesame seeds. Will make again!
My kids loved it! They usually dont eat salad but this one disappeared fast.
Made this, but I forgot the sesame seeds… my bad. It still was decent. Can I use normal seeds?
Wasn’t sure about the sesame dressing, but it turned out pretty tasty. I think I might use more chicken next time!
It was alright, but I think my dressing was too oily. Maybe I’ll try a different kind next time.
This salad was super delicious! The combo of sesame and chicken is so good 😍
Sound simple but its freakin tasty, my whole family loved it! 🥗
ehh not for me. I dunno, I just ain’t a salad person. Chicken was good tho! 🤷♂️
I don’t like salad usually, but this one was tasty! Never thought chicken could be this good in a salad.
Loved it! My kids even ate their veggies. Will make again for sure. Great summer meal!
This salad is sooo good! I really loved the sesame dressing! 🥗
Totally agree! The sesame dressing really adds a nice kick to it! 🌟
I don’t know, sounds too healthy for me. Where’s the pizza? 🍕
I don’t get why everyone loves this. It’s just chicken and greens… boring.
I added avocados and it turned out great! Highly recommend!
Sounds delicious! Avocados are a great addition to almost anything!
I dunno, avocado sounds weird in a salad. Is it really that good?
SEASONING! You forgot to mention the spice… I added some chili flakes for a kick!
Chili flakes sounds great! I’m gonna try that next time! 🌶️
Meh. My cats didn’t even wanna eat the leftovers. Guess the flavor was off? Just not my thing.
I did not like this at all. The dressing tastes like something from a bottle. I prefer homemade!
Too many vegetables!!! I want more chicken!!!
I totally get it! More chicken would definitely make this salad more satisfying. Maybe add another cup next time?
But like, it’s a salad, right? It’s supposed to have veggies! Just eat the chicken first, lol.
Quick and easy! Im no chef, but I managed to pull it off! 🙂
This salad is amazing! So fresh and crunchy. My kids loved it too!
I’m glad your kids liked it! My family enjoyed it too. It’s such a great way to get them to eat veggies!
It was alright, but not enough chicken for my taste. Needs more meat!
I totally get that! More chicken would make it heartier. Maybe add some grilled chicken on top next time?
Nah, it’s fine the way it is. If you want more meat, just add some beef or shrimp? They go good too!
I’ve never like salads, but this one changed my mind. So good!
Sesame seeds are good, but where’s the flavor? Needs more spices.
It was ok, but I think it needed more flavor. Maybe add some soy sauce next time?
This salad is a game changer! So refreshing and easy to make. I love the sesame dressing!
sesame seed bad, chicken ok, not super special. 2 outta 5 stars
Way too simple for my taste. I thought it would be more fancy but it’s just a salad…
Simple recipe, quick to make. Perfect for hot summer days!
Absolutely! I love how easy this is, and it looks super refreshing! Can’t wait to try it on my next picnic! 🌞
It’s okay…but my mom’s version is better. Just saying.
I get it! Mom’s recipes have that special touch. But this one’s still pretty good! 😊
Your mom’s version must be gourmet then! How about sharing it? I’m curious! 🍽️
Easy to make, but I substituted peanut dressing instead – was yum!