Easy Asian Salad with Chicken

This Easy Asian Salad Recipe with Chicken is a delightful way to bring a burst of flavor into your evening meal. Imagine a salad filled with crunchy veggies, tender chicken, and a mouthwatering homemade teriyaki glaze. It’s quick to prepare and perfect for those busy nights when you want something wholesome yet satisfying. Not only does the vibrant mix of colors make the dish visually appealing, but the combination of sweet and savory notes ensures that each bite is a treat for your palate.

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Everyone loves a recipe that requires minimal fuss but delivers maximum taste, and that’s exactly what you’ll find here. Whether you’re hosting a cozy dinner or simply looking to enhance your weeknight dinners, this recipe works beautifully. Plus, the ingredients can be easily adjusted, allowing you to get creative based on what you have at hand. Let’s jump into this exciting culinary adventure together!

Why This Recipe Works

This Easy Asian Salad Recipe with Chicken combines fresh ingredients and bold flavors, ensuring a satisfying meal that’s both nutritious and delicious. The homemade teriyaki glaze elevates the dish, providing a savory-sweet balance that enhances the natural taste of the chicken and vegetables.

Why You’ll Love This Easy Asian Salad Recipe with Chicken

You’ll fall in love with this salad for its vibrant colors, delightful crunch, and ease of preparation. Perfect for busy weeknights or entertaining guests, this recipe brings a taste of Asia right to your kitchen while being quick and simple to whip up.

Ingredients

To create this tantalizing salad, gather the following ingredients:

• 1/3 cup tamari sauce or soy sauce
• 1/4 cup rice vinegar
• 1/3 cup water
• 2 tablespoons sesame seed oil
• 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
• 2 large chicken breasts, halved
• 1 head of Romaine lettuce, shredded
• 1/3-1/2 red cabbage, sliced
• 1 large carrot, grated
• 2-3 green scallions, chopped
• Small bunch of cilantro, chopped
• 1 can mandarins, drained
• Crispy chow mein noodles
• Slivered almonds
• Sesame seeds (optional)

Preparing the Teriyaki Glaze

Start by making the teriyaki glaze. In a small saucepan, combine tamari sauce, rice vinegar, water, sesame seed oil, and brown sugar. Bring this mixture to a simmer over medium-low heat. The magic happens as you cook the glaze for about 15 minutes until it reduces by half. This step will create that rich, tender taste you’re looking for.

Browning the Chicken

Now, let’s get the chicken ready! Preheat a frying pan over medium heat. Add a splash of olive oil to the pan. Then, brown the halved chicken breasts on both sides, taking about 4 to 5 minutes per side. To amp up the flavor, pour half of the prepared teriyaki glaze into the pan while the chicken cooks.

Baking the Chicken

Once the chicken is nicely browned, transfer the frying pan into a preheated oven set at 400°F. Bake for about 15 to 18 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F. Remember to turn the chicken halfway through the cooking time to ensure even cooking and seasoning. If you notice the glaze reducing too quickly, just add a tad bit of water.

Assembling the Salad

While your chicken is baking, focus on the salad. In a large bowl, toss together your shredded Romaine lettuce, sliced red cabbage, grated carrot, chopped scallions, and cilantro. Next, fold in the drained mandarins, crispy chow mein noodles, and slivered almonds. Feel free to adjust the amounts based on your preference!

Slicing the Chicken

After the chicken has finished cooking, let it rest for about 5 minutes. Once rested, slice it into thin pieces and beautifully arrange it on top of your salad.

Dressing the Salad

To finish, drizzle the remaining teriyaki glaze over the salad. If you like, garnish with sesame seeds for an extra touch. The best moment is when you serve the salad while the chicken is still warm, enhancing all those fantastic flavors even more.

Serving Suggestions

Consider pairing your salad with:

• A side of steamed edamame.
• Crispy spring rolls or dumplings for a full Asian-inspired meal.

Both options complement the flavors beautifully and add variety to your dining experience.

Tips for Success

To get the most out of your Easy Asian Salad Recipe with Chicken:

• Use fresh ingredients to achieve the best flavor.
• If you prefer, adjust the sweetness of the glaze by varying the amount of brown sugar.

Variations

Feel free to get creative with this recipe! You can:

• Substitute grilled shrimp or tofu for chicken if you desire.
• Add other vegetables such as bell peppers or snap peas for extra crunch.

These changes make it your own while keeping it delicious!

Storage Tips

If you happen to have leftovers, store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Remember to keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve. This will help maintain that fresh and crisp taste.

Pairing Ideas

Enhance your meal by pairing this salad with a light, refreshing drink. Consider iced green tea or a fruity Asian cocktail. Both options elevate the dining experience and complete the meal delightfully.

FAQs

1. Can I use pre-cooked chicken for this salad?
Absolutely! Pre-cooked chicken can save you time. Simply shred or slice it and toss it with the salad.

2. What can I substitute for tamari sauce?
Soy sauce works perfectly if you don’t have tamari on hand.

3. How can I make the salad gluten-free?
Just use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari, and ensure the chow mein noodles are also gluten-free.

4. Is this salad suitable for meal prep?
For sure! Just keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to dig in to ensure everything stays fresh.

5. Can I add nuts to the salad for extra protein?
Yes! Slivered almonds are great, or you can opt for peanuts for a more traditional touch.

Enjoy this Easy Asian Salad Recipe with Chicken for a delightful and easy meal that’s packed with flavor. You’ll appreciate the beauty of fresh ingredients coming together in harmony, perfect for sharing with friends and family or treating yourself to a delightful dinner. This recipe offers not only a tasty dish but also an experience that transports your taste buds straight to Asia.

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