Incredible Sesame Chicken Salad

There’s something about a crisp, flavorful chicken salad that feels like a warm hug on a busy day. I first fell in love with this sesame chicken salad during a picnic in the park last spring—the kind of afternoon where the sun was just right, and the breeze carried the scent of blooming flowers. I packed a simple version of this dish, and by the time we unpacked our basket, my friends were already asking for the recipe. It’s been a staple in my kitchen ever since, perfect for quick lunches, light dinners, or even as a filling for wraps. The nutty sesame dressing, tender chicken, and crunchy veggies come together in a harmony of textures and flavors that’s downright irresistible.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This salad is all about fresh, vibrant ingredients with a touch of toasty sesame magic. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 2 cups cooked chicken – Shredded or diced. Leftover rotisserie chicken works wonders here!
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise – For creaminess. You can swap in Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
• 2 tablespoons toasted sesame oil – The star of the show! Its deep, nutty flavor is what makes this salad special.
• 1 tablespoon honey – A touch of sweetness to balance the savory notes.
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce – For that umami depth. Use tamari if you need a gluten-free version.
• 1 teaspoon rice vinegar – A little tang to brighten everything up.
• 1/2 cup shredded carrots – Adds a lovely crunch and sweetness.
• 1/4 cup thinly sliced green onions – For a mild, fresh bite.
• 2 tablespoons sesame seeds – Toasted, of course, for extra nuttiness.
• Salt and pepper to taste – Because seasoning is everything.

How to Make This Sesame Chicken Salad

This recipe comes together in minutes, making it perfect for those days when you need something delicious without the fuss. Here’s how I do it:

1. Prep the dressing: In a large bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sesame oil, honey, soy sauce, and rice vinegar until smooth. Taste and adjust the seasoning—sometimes I add an extra drizzle of honey if I want it sweeter.
2. Combine the chicken and veggies: Add the shredded chicken, carrots, and green onions to the bowl. Gently toss everything until the chicken is evenly coated with the dressing.
3. Toast the sesame seeds: In a small dry pan over medium heat, toast the sesame seeds for about 2–3 minutes, shaking the pan often, until they’re golden and fragrant. Let them cool slightly before adding them to the salad.
4. Finish and serve: Sprinkle the toasted sesame seeds over the salad and give it one final toss. Let it sit for 10 minutes (if you can resist!) to let the flavors meld together.

Tip: If you’re meal-prepping, keep the sesame seeds separate until just before serving to maintain their crunch.

Pro Tips, Variations, and Substitutions

Making this sesame chicken salad is a breeze, but a few pro tips can take it to the next level. For extra crunch, toast the sesame seeds lightly in a dry pan before adding them to the salad. If you’re short on time, a store-bought rotisserie chicken works perfectly—just shred it and toss it in!

Want to mix things up? Here are some delicious variations:

• Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of sriracha or chili flakes to the dressing.
• Nutty Twist: Swap sesame seeds for chopped peanuts or cashews.
• Veggie Boost: Toss in shredded carrots, bell peppers, or snap peas for extra color and crunch.
• Low-Carb Option: Serve it over a bed of greens instead of noodles or rice.

If you don’t have all the ingredients on hand, don’t worry! Honey can replace the brown sugar in the dressing, and rice vinegar works as a substitute for apple cider vinegar.

What to Serve It With

This sesame chicken salad is incredibly versatile. Here are a few serving ideas to make it a complete meal:

• Over Rice or Noodles: Serve it warm or cold over steamed jasmine rice, brown rice, or soba noodles.
• In Wraps or Lettuce Cups: Spoon it into whole wheat tortillas or crisp butter lettuce leaves for a light, handheld meal.
• With a Side of Soup: Pair it with a simple miso soup or hot and sour soup for a cozy Asian-inspired dinner.
• As a Party Appetizer: Serve it in small bowls with wonton chips for scooping—perfect for gatherings!

Storage and Reheating Tips

This salad keeps beautifully, making it a great make-ahead option. Here’s how to store it for maximum freshness:

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. If you’ve added crispy toppings like wonton strips, keep them separate and add just before serving.
• Freezing: We don’t recommend freezing this salad, as the texture of the veggies and dressing may change.
• Reheating: If you prefer it warm, gently heat it in a skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of water or broth to keep it moist. Avoid microwaving for too long to prevent the chicken from drying out.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! The flavors meld even more if you let it sit in the fridge for an hour or two before serving. Just hold off on adding any crunchy toppings until you’re ready to eat.

Is there a vegetarian version of this salad?
Yes! Swap the chicken for crispy tofu or chickpeas for a plant-based twist. The sesame dressing works just as well with these alternatives.

Can I use bottled sesame dressing instead?
You can, but homemade dressing is fresher and more flavorful. If you’re in a pinch, look for a high-quality sesame ginger dressing at the store.

How can I make this gluten-free?
Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce, and double-check that your other ingredients (like rice vinegar) are gluten-free certified.

A Cozy Final Thought

There’s something so comforting about a dish that’s both nourishing and bursting with flavor, and this sesame chicken salad checks all the boxes. Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week, packing a lunch, or serving it at your next potluck, it’s sure to be a hit. The balance of savory, sweet, and nutty flavors makes every bite irresistible. I hope this recipe becomes a staple in your kitchen—just like it has in mine. Happy cooking!