If you’re looking for a vibrant and satisfying meal that’s packed with flavor, this Sesame Chicken Crunch Salad is the perfect choice. Crisp greens, tender chicken, and a medley of crunchy vegetables come together in a deliciously tangy sesame dressing, making it a refreshing option for lunch or dinner. This salad is not only a feast for the eyes but also a celebration of textures and tastes that will leave you feeling energized and satisfied.
What makes this Sesame Chicken Crunch Salad special is its delightful combination of flavors and textures. The juicy chicken pairs perfectly with the crispness of fresh vegetables, while the sesame dressing adds a nutty richness that ties everything together. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it a great option for busy weeknights or meal prep.
The first time I made this salad, I was amazed at how quickly it became a family favorite. Each bite was a perfect balance of crunchy and savory, and it felt like a wholesome meal that didn’t skimp on flavor. Now, I look forward to making it regularly, whether for a quick lunch, a light dinner, or as a side dish for gatherings.
I love serving this Sesame Chicken Crunch Salad for family meals, potlucks, or whenever I want to enjoy a healthy yet delicious dish. It’s a recipe that brings joy and satisfaction, and it’s sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire. So, gather your ingredients and enjoy this delightful salad that’s as nutritious as it is flavorful!
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love Sesame Chicken Crunch Salad
- Fresh and Flavorful – A vibrant mix of greens, chicken, and crunchy vegetables.
- Nutty Sesame Dressing – A deliciously tangy dressing that enhances every bite.
- Quick and Easy – Simple to prepare, making it a great option for busy days.
- Customizable – Easily adapt the recipe to include your favorite vegetables or proteins.
- Perfect for Meal Prep – Make a big batch for easy lunches throughout the week.
Health Benefits of Sesame Chicken Crunch Salad
This salad offers more than just great taste:
- High in Protein – Chicken provides a good source of lean protein to keep you full.
- Rich in Vitamins – Fresh vegetables are packed with essential vitamins and minerals.
- Healthy Fats – Sesame oil and seeds provide nourishing fats that support heart health.
- Fiber-Rich – Crunchy vegetables contribute dietary fiber for digestive health.
- Low in Calories – A satisfying meal that won’t weigh you down.
When to Make Sesame Chicken Crunch Salad
This salad is perfect for a variety of occasions:
- Quick Weeknight Dinners – A healthy meal option for busy evenings.
- Lunch Meal Prep – Prepare in advance for easy grab-and-go lunches.
- Family Gatherings – Impress guests with a colorful and delicious salad.
- Picnics and Potlucks – A great dish to share at outdoor events.
- Light and Healthy Meals – Perfect for those looking to enjoy a nutritious option.
Chef’s Notes: Sesame Chicken Crunch Salad
• Frying Temperature – Use a digital thermometer to ensure the oil reaches 350°F for perfectly crispy wontons without being oily or undercooked.
• Complete Meal – Serve the salad with a side of light miso soup or edamame for a well-rounded meal that’s satisfying and nutritious.
• Nutty Crunch – For added texture, consider incorporating chopped cashews or sliced almonds into the salad for a delightful crunch.
• Sweetness Adjustment – If you prefer a deeper caramel note, swap honey for brown sugar in the vinaigrette.
• Color and Nutrition – Enhance the salad’s color and nutrition by tossing in shredded carrots or bell pepper strips for extra vitamins and crunch.
• Make-Ahead Dressing – Prepare the vinaigrette in advance and store it in the fridge for up to a week; just give it a good shake before using.
• Alternative Proteins – For a vegetarian option, substitute shredded chicken with shredded tofu or chickpeas for a protein-packed salad.
• Gluten-Free Options – Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce and baked tortilla strips or rice crackers instead of wonton wrappers to keep it gluten-free.
• Fresh Herbs – Add fresh herbs like cilantro or green onions for an extra layer of flavor and freshness.
• Serving Suggestions – This salad is perfect for meal prepping; just keep the dressing separate until ready to serve to maintain the crispness of the ingredients.
Sesame Chicken Crunch Salad
4
servings15
minutes5
minutes600
kcal20
minutesGet ready to dive into a vibrant crunch fest with this Sesame Chicken Crunch Salad! Imagine tender shredded chicken and crisp wonton ribbons tossed in a bright sesame vinaigrette, then piled over fresh romaine, cucumber, tomatoes, and red onion. It’s a perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and savory, all in under 20 minutes. Channel your inner top chef—this easy salad will steal the show at lunch or dinner.
Ingredients
- Sweet Sesame Vinaigrette
1/3 cup rice vinegar
1/2 cup vegetable oil or light olive oil
1 tbsp toasted sesame oil
2 cloves garlic finely minced
1 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
1/4 cup honey
2 tbsp toasted sesame seeds
- Crispy Wonton Garnish
8 wonton wrappers sliced into 1 strips
1 cup peanut or vegetable oil for shallow frying
- Salad Base
6 cups torn romaine hearts about 2 heads
8 oz cooked chicken breast shredded, around 1½ cups
1/2 cup halved cherry tomatoes
1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion
1 cup sliced cucumber half-moons, about 1 small cucumber
- Alternative Ingredients
Rice vinegar → apple cider vinegar for milder tang
Vegetable oil → extra-virgin olive oil for richer flavor
Honey → maple syrup or agave nectar for vegan
Soy sauce → tamari or coconut aminos for gluten-free
Wonton wrappers → baked tortilla strips or rice crackers for gluten-free
Chicken → shredded tofu or chickpeas for vegetarian
Romaine lettuce → mixed greens or kale for variety
Garlic cloves → ¼ teaspoon garlic powder if fresh unavailable
Sesame oil → walnut oil for nutty twist
Sesame seeds → chopped nuts for extra crunch
Directions
- Vinaigrette Whisking – In a small bowl or jar, combine rice vinegar, vegetable and sesame oils, minced garlic, soy sauce, and honey. Whisk vigorously until the dressing emulsifies into a smooth sauce, about 1–2 minutes. Educational tip: Emulsification traps tiny oil droplets in vinegar, giving your dressing body and sheen.
- Wonton Frying – Pour oil into a nonstick pan, heating over medium-high until it reaches 350°F (about 4–5 minutes). Carefully slide in a few wonton strips; they should bubble and turn golden in 30–45 seconds. Transfer to a paper-lined plate to drain. Optional: sprinkle with a pinch of salt or chili flakes right after frying.
- Salad Assembly – In a large bowl, layer torn romaine, shredded chicken, tomatoes, red onion, and cucumber. Drizzle half the vinaigrette and toss gently, ensuring every piece is lightly coated. Add remaining dressing as desired, then top with crispy wonton strips. Educational tip: Tossing mid-assembly prevents sogginess and guarantees crisp texture.
Equipment
- chef’s knife
- cutting board
- measuring cups and spoons
- Mixing bowls
- nonstick pan
Notes
- • Use a digital thermometer for accurate frying temperature to prevent oily or undercooked wontons.
• Serve with light miso soup or edamame for a complete meal.
• Add crunch variations like chopped cashews or sliced almonds if you prefer nuts.
• Swap honey for brown sugar if you’d like a deeper caramel note.
• For extra color and nutrition, toss in shredded carrots or bell pepper strips.
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 600kcal
- Fat: 40g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 12g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 20g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Potassium: 600mg
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 10g
- Protein: 25g
- Vitamin A: 8000IU
- Vitamin C: 20mg
- Calcium: 80mg
- Iron: 3mg
FAQs: Sesame Chicken Crunch Salad
Can I use a different type of vinegar?
Yes, you can substitute rice vinegar with apple cider vinegar for a milder tang.
What can I use instead of vegetable oil?
You can use extra-virgin olive oil for a richer flavor in the vinaigrette.
Is there a vegan alternative to honey?
Yes, you can replace honey with maple syrup or agave nectar for a vegan option.
Can I make this salad gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce and baked tortilla strips or rice crackers instead of wonton wrappers.
How long does the vinaigrette last?
The vinaigrette can be stored in the fridge for up to a week; just shake well before using.
What can I use instead of chicken?
You can substitute shredded chicken with shredded tofu or chickpeas for a vegetarian option.
How do I keep the wontons crispy?
Fry the wontons just before serving and add them to the salad immediately to maintain their crunch.
Can I add more vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to add any of your favorite vegetables, such as bell peppers, shredded carrots, or snap peas.
How do I know when the wontons are done frying?
Wontons should bubble and turn golden brown in about 30–45 seconds; keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
Can I prepare this salad in advance?
You can prep the ingredients ahead of time, but it’s best to assemble the salad and add the dressing just before serving to keep everything fresh and crisp.
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