Crunchy Asian Sesame Chicken Salad

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This Crunchy Asian Sesame Chicken Salad is the kind of vibrant, flavor-packed meal that makes you crave salad for dinner. Grilled, juicy chicken glazed in a sweet-savory sesame dressing sits beautifully over a bed of crunchy cabbage, carrots, and fresh vegetables. Topped with roasted peanuts, sesame seeds, and a scatter of cilantro and jalapeño slices, every bite delivers a mix of tender, crunchy, spicy, and fresh.

Whether you’re whipping up a quick weeknight dinner or meal prepping for a week of healthy lunches, this salad is the perfect blend of nutritious and indulgent. The homemade sesame-soy marinade doubles as a dressing, which saves time while adding deep umami flavor. It’s hearty enough to satisfy yet light enough to keep things fresh.

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What Kind of Chicken Should I Use for Crunchy Asian Sesame Chicken Salad?

Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are a great choice for this salad because they stay moist and flavorful when grilled or pan-seared. You can also use chicken breasts if you prefer a leaner option, but be sure not to overcook them. For convenience, rotisserie chicken tossed in the sesame dressing can work in a pinch.

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Ingredients for the Crunchy Asian Sesame Chicken Salad

Chicken Thighs – Juicy and tender, they soak up the sesame marinade beautifully.

Soy Sauce – The base for the marinade and dressing, adding salty umami depth.

Sesame Oil – Brings rich nuttiness that defines the salad’s signature flavor.

Honey – Balances out the saltiness with a touch of sweetness.

Rice Vinegar – Adds brightness and acidity that cuts through the richness.

Garlic & Ginger – Fresh aromatics that provide bold, zesty flavor.

Red Cabbage – Adds vibrant color and crisp texture.

Shredded Carrots – Natural sweetness and crunch.

Cucumber – Cooling and refreshing against the spicy, nutty elements.

Red Bell Pepper – Crunchy and sweet, adding color and vitamin C.

Cilantro – For fresh, herby brightness.

Jalapeño Slices – Optional, but perfect for a spicy kick.

Roasted Peanuts & Sesame Seeds – For crunch and nutty finish.

Green Onions – Mild onion flavor to round it all out.

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How To Make the Crunchy Asian Sesame Chicken Salad

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sesame oil, honey, rice vinegar, minced garlic, and freshly grated ginger. Add the chicken thighs and let them marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for more flavor.

Step 2: Grill or Sear the Chicken

Heat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken thighs for about 5–6 minutes per side, or until nicely charred and cooked through. Let them rest before slicing into thin strips.

Step 3: Prepare the Dressing

Reserve part of the marinade before adding the raw chicken, and whisk in a bit more rice vinegar and sesame oil to use as the salad dressing. Alternatively, make a fresh batch following the same recipe without raw meat contact.

Step 4: Chop the Veggies

Thinly slice red cabbage, julienne the carrots and bell pepper, and chop cucumber into half-moons. Slice green onions and jalapeños. Roughly chop fresh cilantro. Toss everything in a large mixing bowl.

Step 5: Assemble the Salad

Arrange the vegetable mix on a serving platter or in bowls. Top with sliced chicken, then drizzle generously with the sesame dressing. Finish with roasted peanuts, sesame seeds, and extra cilantro or jalapeño if you like it spicy.

Step 6: Serve Fresh

This salad is best served immediately while the chicken is warm and the veggies are crisp. Enjoy the beautiful harmony of texture and flavor in every bite!

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Tips for Serving and Storing This Crunchy Asian Sesame Chicken Salad

For the freshest experience, serve this salad right after assembling it. The warm chicken over crisp vegetables creates the perfect contrast in temperature and texture. If you’re serving it for guests, plate it on a large platter with garnishes added just before serving for that “wow” factor.

To store, keep the components separate. Store the grilled chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The chopped vegetables can be kept fresh in a sealed container lined with a paper towel to absorb excess moisture. The dressing will last up to a week refrigerated in a mason jar.

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What to Serve With Crunchy Asian Sesame Chicken Salad?

Steamed Jasmine Rice

A neutral, fluffy side that complements the bold flavors without overwhelming them.

Chicken Egg Rolls

Crispy egg rolls filled with veggies or chicken make a delicious side or appetizer.

Miso Soup

A light, warm starter that pairs beautifully with the crisp salad.

Edamame with Sea Salt

Perfect for snacking or as a healthy, protein-rich side dish.

Spicy Peanut Noodles

If you’re feeding a crowd, this is a hearty pairing that extends the Asian-inspired theme.

Pickled Daikon and Carrots

Tangy and crunchy, these pickles cut through the savory richness of the chicken.

Thai Iced Tea

A creamy, sweet beverage to cool off the heat from jalapeños.

Crispy Wonton Chips

Serve on the side or crushed over the top for extra crunch.

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Want More Salad Ideas with a Crunch?

If this Crunchy Asian Sesame Chicken Salad has you hooked, you’re going to love these fresh, flavorful favorites too:

• California Spaghetti Salad with a zesty Italian twist.
• Creamy Crab Pasta Salad for a chilled and satisfying seafood option.
• Refreshing Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes when you’re craving a tangy veggie bite.
• Grape Salad for a sweet and creamy side that pairs perfectly with spicy mains.
• Air Fryer Sesame Cauliflower if you’re into bold sesame flavor but want to keep things meatless.

These dishes bring variety, color, and texture to your table with ease.

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Save this delicious idea to your favorite Pinterest board so it’s easy to find when you’re ready to whip it up again.

Tried it with a twist? Maybe swapped the chicken for tofu or drizzled on a spicy chili crunch? I’d love to hear how you made it your own—share your tips or questions in the comments below.

Need more inspiration? Explore my daily kitchen creations on SavorQueen Recipes on Pinterest. Your next favorite might be waiting there.

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