How do you make grilled ginger sesame chicken for a chopped salad?

To make grilled ginger sesame chicken for a chopped salad, start by marinating boneless chicken breasts in a mixture of grated fresh ginger, soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic, and a touch of honey for at least 30 minutes. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat, then cook the chicken for about 5–7 minutes per side until fully cooked and slightly charred. Let the chicken rest before slicing it into bite-sized pieces that are perfect for mixing into your chopped salad.

What ingredients are best for a ginger sesame chicken chopped salad?

A flavorful ginger sesame chicken chopped salad typically includes grilled ginger sesame chicken, mixed greens like romaine or spinach, shredded carrots, chopped cucumbers, sliced bell peppers, edamame, and green onions. Topping it with toasted sesame seeds and crunchy wonton strips adds texture. For dressing, a simple sesame ginger vinaigrette made from rice vinegar, sesame oil, soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and a dash of honey ties all the flavors together.

Can I prepare the grilled chicken and salad dressing ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare both the grilled ginger sesame chicken and the salad dressing ahead of time to save cooking day prep. Marinate and grill the chicken a day in advance, then store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container. Similarly, you can make the sesame ginger dressing up to 3 days ahead; keep it refrigerated and give it a good shake before serving. Assemble the salad just before eating for the freshest taste and crunch.

How healthy is a grilled ginger sesame chicken chopped salad?

The grilled ginger sesame chicken chopped salad is a nutritious meal choice rich in protein, vitamins, and antioxidants. The grilled chicken provides lean protein while the fresh vegetables contribute essential vitamins, fiber, and minerals. The ginger and sesame oil add anti-inflammatory benefits, and using a light sesame ginger dressing keeps the calorie count moderate. It’s a balanced dish suitable for weight management and overall wellness when enjoyed as part of a varied diet.

What are some variations to try with a grilled ginger sesame chicken chopped salad?

To change up the grilled ginger sesame chicken chopped salad, consider swapping out vegetables like adding shredded purple cabbage for color and crunch or avocado slices for creaminess. You can use quinoa or brown rice as a base to make it more filling. For a vegetarian version, replace chicken with grilled tofu marinated in the same ginger sesame sauce. Experiment with toppings such as chopped peanuts or fresh cilantro to add different textures and flavors.

Grilled Ginger Sesame Chicken Chopped Salad Recipe 2024

Name: Grilled Ginger Sesame Chicken Chopped Salad
Prep time: 50 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Asian-inspired
Ingredients: – 1/4 cup soy sauce; – 2 tablespoons finely minced ginger; – 3 tablespoons canola oil; – 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce; – 1 tablespoon regular un-toasted sesame oil; – 1 teaspoon Sriracha (adjust for desired heat); – 1/2 teaspoon salt, plus more to taste; – 1/4 cup red wine vinegar; – 1/4 cup chopped green onions (green and white parts); – 2 chicken breasts (9 oz each); – 1 pound napa cabbage, halved lengthwise and thinly sliced crosswise; – 1 1/2 to 2 cups matchstick carrots (or 2 medium carrots cut into matchsticks); – 2/3 cup slivered or sliced almonds, toasted; – 1/2 cup chopped cilantro leaves; – 3 green onions (green and white parts), chopped; – 1 teaspoon white sesame seeds, toasted; – 1 teaspoon black sesame seeds or an additional teaspoon white, toasted

Ingredients

– 1/4 cup soy sauce

– 2 tablespoons finely minced ginger

– 3 tablespoons canola oil

– 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce

– 1 tablespoon regular un-toasted sesame oil

– 1 teaspoon Sriracha (adjust for desired heat)

– 1/2 teaspoon salt, plus more to taste

– 1/4 cup red wine vinegar

– 1/4 cup chopped green onions (green and white parts)

– 2 chicken breasts (9 oz each)

– 1 pound napa cabbage, halved lengthwise and thinly sliced crosswise

– 1 1/2 to 2 cups matchstick carrots (or 2 medium carrots cut into matchsticks)

– 2/3 cup slivered or sliced almonds, toasted

– 1/2 cup chopped cilantro leaves

– 3 green onions (green and white parts), chopped

– 1 teaspoon white sesame seeds, toasted

– 1 teaspoon black sesame seeds or an additional teaspoon white, toasted

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Instructions

1-Step 1: Make the Marinade and Prep the Chicken Whisk together 1/4 cup soy sauce, 2 tablespoons finely minced ginger, 3 tablespoons canola oil, 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce, 1 tablespoon sesame oil, 1 teaspoon Sriracha, and 1/2 teaspoon salt in a bowl. Place 2 chicken breasts (9 oz each) in a resealable bag and add 3 tablespoons of this mixture. Rub it over the chicken, seal the bag, and chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes or up to a day. Meanwhile, for the dressing, mix the remaining marinade with 1/4 cup red wine vinegar and 1/4 cup chopped green onions, then whisk and chill if needed.

2-Step 2: Grill the Chicken Heat your grill or grill pan to medium-high and brush it with canola or vegetable oil. Grill the chicken for about 4 minutes per side until it reaches 165°F inside. Let it rest for 10 minutes, then slice into 1/4-inch thick strips. This keeps the chicken juicy and ready to star in your salad.

3-Step 3: Assemble the Salad In a large bowl, combine 1 pound thinly sliced napa cabbage, the grilled chicken strips, 1 1/2 to 2 cups matchstick carrots, 2/3 cup toasted almonds, 3 chopped green onions, and 1/2 cup chopped cilantro. Add enough dressing to coat everything, then toss well. Finally, sprinkle 1 teaspoon each of toasted white and black sesame seeds on top before serving.

Last Step:

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Notes

🌶️ Adjust Sriracha and salt levels to your taste preference.
🌰 Toast almonds and sesame seeds to enhance their crunch and flavor.
🥬 Napa cabbage adds a crisp, refreshing texture as an alternative to lettuce.

Author: Brandi Oshea
Prep Time: 40 minutes
Resting time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Salad
Method: Grilling and Mixing
Cuisine: Asian-inspired

Nutrition

Calories: 482
Sugar: 10 g
Sodium: 1220 mg
Fat: 28 g
Saturated Fat: 3 g
Carbohydrates: 25 g
Fiber: 7 g
Protein: 35 g
Cholesterol: 82 mg