Sesame Pasta Chicken Salad
Elevate your salad game with this vibrant Sesame Pasta Chicken Salad—a perfect fusion of bold Asian-inspired flavors and wholesome ingredients. Tender, golden-brown chicken breast is paired with al dente fusilli pasta and a medley of crisp vegetables, including julienned carrots and sliced red bell peppers, for a satisfying mix of textures. The crowning glory is the irresistible sesame dressing, made with nutty sesame oil, savory soy sauce, rice vinegar, and a touch of honey for balance. Finished with a sprinkle of sesame seeds and fresh cilantro, this dish is as visually stunning as it is delicious. Whether served immediately or chilled, this quick and easy salad transforms into a refreshing lunch, picnic favorite, or light dinner option. Perfect for meal prep or impressing at gatherings, this recipe is a must-try for fans of sesame chicken and pasta salads alike.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 2 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breast
- 250 grams fusilli pasta
- 3 tablespoons sesame oil
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 2 pieces garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 large carrot, julienned
- 1 medium red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 4 pieces scallions, chopped
- 2 tablespoons sesame seeds
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
- 4 cups cooked water
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
Bring 4 cups of salted water to a boil in a large pot. Add the fusilli pasta and cook until al dente, according to package instructions (approximately 8-10 minutes). Drain and set aside to cool.
While the pasta cooks, season the chicken breasts with salt and black pepper. Heat 1 tablespoon of sesame oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and golden brown. Remove from heat, allow to cool slightly, then slice into thin strips.
In a small bowl, prepare the sesame dressing by whisking together the remaining 2 tablespoons of sesame oil, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, minced garlic, and grated ginger until well combined.
In a large salad bowl, combine the cooked and cooled pasta, chicken strips, julienned carrot, sliced red bell pepper, and chopped scallions.
Pour the sesame dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly.
Garnish the salad with sesame seeds and freshly chopped cilantro.
Serve immediately, or refrigerate for 20 minutes if you prefer the salad chilled. Enjoy!
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
412 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 17.2 g | 22% | |
| Saturated Fat | 3.0 g | 15% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 5.6 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 74 mg | 25% | |
| Sodium | 1001 mg | 44% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 31.3 g | 11% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 3.5 g | 13% | |
| Total Sugars | 8.1 g | ||
| Protein | 33.8 g | 68% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 46 mg | 4% | |
| Iron | 2.5 mg | 14% | |
| Potassium | 549 mg | 12% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
