Sesame-Ginger Chicken Salad

If you’re in the mood for a dish that’s as nourishing as it is flavorful, this Sesame-Ginger Chicken Salad is a must-try! Perfect for a light lunch or a substantial side, this recipe brings together a vibrant mix of fresh vegetables, succulent chicken, and a tangy sesame-ginger dressing that will make your taste buds dance. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Ingredients

For the Dressing:

• 1/3 cup coconut aminos
• 1/4 cup red wine vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
• 3 tablespoons avocado oil
• 2 tablespoons toasted sesame oil
• 2 tablespoons minced ginger
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper

For the Salad:

• 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 4 green onions, diced (or substitute with 1/2 red onion, finely diced)
• 1/2 large green cabbage, thinly sliced
• 1/2 red cabbage, thinly sliced
• 2 cups shredded or matchstick carrots
• 1 cup sliced almonds
• 1 can Mandarin oranges (no sugar/syrup – check labels!)
• 1/2 cup chopped and loosely packed cilantro
• 1 tablespoon black sesame seeds
• 1 tablespoon white sesame seeds

Directions

1. Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together coconut aminos, vinegar, avocado oil, toasted sesame oil, minced ginger, onion powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
2. Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken thighs in a plastic bag and pour in about 3-4 tablespoons of the dressing. Seal the bag and ensure the chicken is well-coated. Let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
3. Cook the Chicken: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook for about 6-8 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is thoroughly cooked and golden brown. If you prefer, you can also grill the chicken. Once done, allow it to cool to room temperature before chopping into bite-sized pieces.
4. Assemble the Salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced green and red cabbage, carrots, green onions, and sliced almonds. Add the chopped chicken, Mandarin oranges, and cilantro. Sprinkle with black and white sesame seeds.
5. Dress the Salad: Pour the remaining dressing over the salad and toss everything together until well coated.
6. Serve and Enjoy: This salad is best served fresh, but you can also refrigerate it for a couple of hours to allow the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Nutritional Information

• Calories: 432 per serving
• Servings: 6

Prep and Cooking Time

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

This Sesame-Ginger Chicken Salad is not only a feast for the eyes but also packed with nutrients. It’s a perfect meal for those who love Asian-inspired flavors and are looking for a hearty yet healthy option. Whether you’re making it for a quick dinner or as part of your meal prep, it’s sure to impress with its fresh ingredients and bold flavors. Enjoy!