Grilled Ginger-Sesame Chicken Chopped Salad
- Preparing Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Served Person: 4
- 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
- 1/4 c low-sodium soy sauce
- 3 tbsp canola oil
- 2 tbsp hoisin sauce
- 2 tbsp finely minced ginger
- 1 tbsp toasted sesame oil ((i used regular un-toasted si
- 1 tsp sriracha ((i didn't even notice it so if you like heat add a little more))
- 1/2 tsp salt ( then more to taste as desired)
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions ( green and white parts)
- 2 (9 oz) boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 lb napa cabbage ( halved lengthwise and thinly sliced crosswise)
- 1 1/2 - 2 cups matchstick carrots ( or 2 medium carrots cut into matchsticks)
- 2/3 cup slivered or sliced almonds ( toasted)
- 1/2 cup cilantro leaves ( chopped)
- 3 chopped green onions ( green and white parts)
- 1 tsp white sesame seeds ( toasted)
- 1 tsp black sesame seeds ((or an additional 1 tsp white toasted))
- Carbohydrate 4.41646891436083 g
- Cholesterol 0.24 mg
- Fat 10.7852000000118 g
- Fiber 0.335999997948912 g
- Protein 1.73620000124385 g
- Saturated Fat 0.820305000001302 g
- Serving Size 1 1 serving (158g)
- Sodium 911.83284428315 mg
- Sugar 4.08046891641191 g
- Trans Fat 0.144585000003314 g
- Calories 121 calories
A Summer Salad Sensation: My Grilled Ginger-Sesame Chicken Chopped Salad
Summer is officially here, and what better way to celebrate than with a vibrant, flavorful salad that's as easy to make as it is delicious? Forget those heavy, carb-laden summer meals; this Grilled Ginger-Sesame Chicken Chopped Salad is my go-to recipe for a light yet satisfying dish that's perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a delightful addition to any summer barbecue. It's the recipe I constantly reach for when friends drop by or when I need a healthy and refreshing meal after a long day.
This salad isn't just a simple toss-and-go affair; it's a symphony of textures and tastes. The tender, juicy grilled chicken, marinated in a fragrant ginger-sesame sauce, is the star of the show. But the real magic lies in the crunchy cabbage, the sweet carrots, the satisfying crunch of toasted almonds, and the fresh burst of cilantro. The homemade dressing, a harmonious blend of red wine vinegar, soy sauce, and a touch of sweetness from hoisin, ties everything together perfectly. Each bite offers a unique experience, from the savory marinade clinging to the chicken to the vibrant freshness of the vegetables and herbs.
What I love most about this recipe is its versatility. You can easily adapt it to your taste and what you have on hand. Feeling adventurous? Add a sprinkle of chili flakes for a touch of heat. Want to add some extra greens? Spinach or romaine lettuce would be wonderful additions. The possibilities are truly endless! And let's not forget the beauty of this salad; the vibrant colors of the ingredients alone make it a feast for the eyes.
I often find myself making a double batch, enjoying one for dinner and saving the other for lunch the next day. The flavors only intensify overnight, making it even more delicious. It's a salad that's both incredibly healthy and satisfying, leaving you feeling energized and ready to tackle whatever the day throws your way. So ditch the complicated summer recipes and embrace the simplicity and deliciousness of this Grilled Ginger-Sesame Chicken Chopped Salad. Your taste buds (and your waistline) will thank you.
This salad is more than just a meal; it's a testament to the joys of simple cooking and fresh ingredients. It's a dish that embodies the spirit of summer, bringing together the warmth of the grill, the freshness of the garden, and the ease of effortless preparation. It's a recipe I've shared countless times, always met with rave reviews, and one I’m excited to share with you. Enjoy!
Beyond the Recipe: Making it Your Own
The beauty of this recipe is its adaptability. Feel free to experiment with different ingredients to create your own unique variation. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the marinade for an extra kick.
- Add some crunch: Toss in some crumbled tortilla chips or crispy wonton strips for added texture.
- Get creative with the greens: Experiment with different types of lettuce, such as romaine, butter lettuce, or even baby spinach.
- Boost the protein: Add grilled shrimp, tofu, or chickpeas for a vegetarian option.
- Change up the nuts: Substitute pecans, walnuts, or even sunflower seeds for the almonds.
No matter how you choose to customize it, this Grilled Ginger-Sesame Chicken Chopped Salad is sure to become a summer staple in your kitchen. Happy cooking!
Step-by-step
- For the marinade: In a mixing bowl, whisk together soy sauce, ginger, canola oil, hoisin sauce, sesame oil, Sriracha and 1/2 tsp salt (adding more salt to taste as desired).
- Add chicken breasts to a large resealable bag and add 3 Tbsp of the marinade mixture, reserving remaining. Seal bag and rub marinade over chicken, then transfer chicken to refrigerator and let rest at least 30 minutes, or up to 1 day.
- For the dressing: Add red wine vinegar and 1/4 cup chopped green onions to remaining dressing mixture and whisk to blend. Set aside (chill in refrigerator if marinating chicken longer than 1 hour).
- For the salad: Heat a grill or grill pan over stove top over medium-high heat. Brush grill lightly with canola or vegetable oil, then place marinated chicken on grill and cook, about 4 minutes per side, or until chicken has cooked through (it should register to 165 degrees in center of chicken when tested with a meat thermometer).
- Transfer to a cutting board and let rest 10 minutes. Then, cut chicken crosswise into strips about 1/4-inch thick.
- To assemble salad: In a large bowl toss together cabbage, chicken, carrots, almonds, 3 chopped green onions, and cilantro with enough dressing to coat salad. Sprinkle top with sesame seeds and serve.
