A Salad That Actually Excites You
Let’s be honest — salads don’t always get people excited. But this one? It’s a game changer. Asian sesame chicken chopped salad isn’t just another leafy green side dish. It’s a full-on flavor explosion — crisp, colorful, protein-packed, and finished with the perfect sesame dressing that brings everything together.
We’re talking juicy grilled chicken, crunchy cabbage, shredded carrots, fresh herbs, toasted sesame seeds, and a sesame-ginger dressing that makes your taste buds dance. It’s refreshing, filling, and anything but boring.
Why You’ll Love This Salad
Whether you’re prepping lunch for the week or trying to lighten up dinner without sacrificing flavor, this salad checks every box:
- Quick and simple
- Customizable to your taste
- Packed with protein and fiber
- Full of bold, tangy, and savory flavors
- Meal-prep friendly
And let’s face it — the colors alone will make you want to dig in. It’s as pretty as it is delicious.
What Makes It “Chopped”?
Chopped salads are all about texture and convenience. Instead of big leaves and uneven bites, everything is chopped into small, even pieces. That means:
- Easier to eat (no awkward bites!)
- Better flavor distribution in every mouthful
- Ideal for tossing in dressing without sogginess
- Great for on-the-go meals
It’s the kind of salad that feels satisfying with every forkful.
The Key Ingredients
Here’s what you need to create the perfect Asian sesame chicken chopped salad. You likely have many of these on hand — and if not, they’re easy to find.
| Ingredient | Purpose in the Salad |
|---|---|
| Grilled chicken breast | Protein and heartiness |
| Napa or green cabbage | Crunchy, refreshing base |
| Red cabbage | Adds color and bold flavor |
| Carrots (shredded) | Sweet and earthy crunch |
| Scallions (green onions) | Sharp and zesty finish |
| Cilantro | Bright herbal freshness |
| Toasted sesame seeds | Nutty flavor and texture |
| Crispy wonton strips | Crunchy topping (optional but amazing) |
| Sesame-ginger dressing | Tangy, sweet, nutty, and absolutely essential |
The Chicken: Flavorful and Tender
You can use store-bought rotisserie chicken, but for best results, we recommend marinating and grilling your own.
🍗 Quick Sesame Chicken Marinade
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 clove garlic (minced)
- ½ tsp grated ginger
- ½ tsp honey or maple syrup
Marinate chicken breasts for at least 30 minutes (or overnight), then grill or pan-sear until golden and cooked through. Slice thin for topping.
Making the Sesame-Ginger Dressing
This dressing is the soul of the salad — sweet, savory, and full of depth.
🥣 Sesame-Ginger Dressing Recipe
- 3 tbsp sesame oil
- 2 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- ½ tsp garlic (minced)
- ½ tsp fresh ginger (grated)
- Pinch of salt
- 1 tsp toasted sesame seeds
Shake it all in a jar or whisk in a bowl. Taste and adjust — some like it sweeter, others more tangy.
How to Assemble Your Salad Like a Pro
Once you’ve got your ingredients chopped and ready, it’s time to build!
🧑🍳 Step-by-Step Salad Assembly
- Chop all vegetables into bite-sized pieces.
- Combine cabbage, carrots, scallions, and cilantro in a large bowl.
- Add grilled chicken, sliced thin or chopped.
- Drizzle half the dressing and toss everything well.
- Top with crispy wonton strips and a sprinkle of sesame seeds.
- Add more dressing as needed and serve fresh.
Want to go extra? Add a few orange segments or crushed peanuts.
Why This Salad Is a Nutritional Powerhouse
Not only is it delicious, but this salad is packed with wholesome ingredients that offer real nutritional benefits.
| Component | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Chicken | Lean protein, keeps you full |
| Cabbage | High in fiber and vitamin C |
| Carrots | Rich in beta-carotene |
| Cilantro & scallions | Antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties |
| Sesame seeds | Healthy fats, magnesium, and calcium |
It’s a salad that actually fuels you — not just fills you.
Customization Ideas
Love the base but want to change things up? Try these ideas:
🥬 Low-Carb or Keto Version
Skip the wontons and go heavier on protein and greens. Add sliced avocado for healthy fats.
🥜 Nutty Crunch
Substitute wonton strips with chopped almonds, peanuts, or cashews.
🥗 Vegetarian Option
Use crispy tofu or edamame instead of chicken. Chickpeas work great too.
🌶️ Spicy Kick
Add chili flakes or a squirt of Sriracha to the dressing.
🥑 Creamy Twist
Whisk a little tahini or Greek yogurt into the dressing for a creamy version.
Best Side Dishes to Pair With This Salad
Although it’s hearty on its own, you can make it a full meal with these light sides:
- Steamed dumplings or spring rolls
- Miso soup or egg drop soup
- Chilled soba noodles
- Sticky rice or jasmine rice
- Fruit salad with lime and mint
Perfect for entertaining or easy weeknight meals.
Storage and Meal Prep Tips
This salad is ideal for weekly meal prep. Just follow a few easy tips:
- Keep the dressing separate until serving.
- Layer ingredients in containers: Start with cabbage, add chicken, top with carrots, cilantro, etc.
- Add crispy elements last to avoid sogginess.
- Refrigerate in airtight containers up to 4 days.
Toss together when you’re ready to eat — it’ll taste freshly made!
Approximate Nutrition (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 380 kcal |
| Protein | 32 g |
| Carbohydrates | 14 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Fat | 22 g |
| Saturated Fat | 3 g |
| Sodium | 580 mg |
| Sugar | 6 g |
Note: Based on 4 servings using grilled chicken and homemade dressing.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Can I make this salad vegetarian or vegan?
Yes! Swap the chicken for tofu, edamame, or tempeh. Use maple syrup in the dressing instead of honey.
❓ Can I use a store-bought dressing?
Sure! Look for sesame ginger or Asian vinaigrettes — just check labels for added sugars and oils.
❓ What’s the best cabbage to use?
Napa cabbage is traditional and softens nicely. But green cabbage or coleslaw mix works just fine.
❓ Can I make it ahead for a party?
Absolutely! Chop all components in advance, store separately, and toss before serving.
Why This Salad Is a Crowd-Pleaser
It’s not just another salad. This Asian sesame chicken chopped salad delivers BIG flavor and texture in every bite. Whether you’re craving something refreshing, trying to eat cleaner, or just want a satisfying meal that doesn’t weigh you down — this dish delivers.
From work lunches to family dinners to potlucks — this salad shines everywhere.
🌐 Explore More
Looking for more bold and healthy meal ideas? Visit Love and Lemons for fresh salad recipes, creative flavor pairings, and clean eating inspiration.
Now grab those chopsticks or forks and dive into your new favorite salad. Crisp, fresh, and full of flavor — it’s love at first crunch. 🥗✨
