Prepare to tantalize your taste buds with the most irresistible Asian-inspired pasta salad that will transform your weeknight dinner from ordinary to extraordinary! This Sesame Chicken Salad Pasta is not just a meal; it's a culinary journey that combines the perfect balance of savory chicken, crisp vegetables, and a mouthwatering sesame dressing that will have everyone asking for seconds. Whether you're looking for a quick lunch, a crowd-pleasing potluck dish, or a refreshing dinner option, this recipe is about to become your new obsession!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Asian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1/2 cup sliced green onions
- 3 tbsp sesame oil
- 3 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds
Instructions
- Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes.
- While the pasta is cooking, prepare the other ingredients. If using uncooked chicken, poach or grill the chicken breasts until fully cooked, then shred using two forks. Alternatively, use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- Drain the cooked pasta in a colander and rinse briefly with cold water to stop the cooking process and cool the pasta down.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, shredded chicken, shredded carrots, and sliced green onions.
- Create the dressing by whisking together sesame oil and soy sauce in a small bowl until well combined.
- Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss gently to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated.
- Sprinkle sesame seeds over the top of the salad for added texture and flavor.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together before serving.
- Before serving, give the salad a quick toss and adjust seasoning with additional soy sauce or sesame oil if desired.
Tips
- Pasta Perfection: Cook your pasta just until al dente to prevent a mushy texture. Rinsing with cold water helps stop the cooking process and keeps the pasta firm.
- Chicken Shortcuts: Save time by using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken or leftover grilled chicken. For the freshest flavor, poach chicken breasts and shred them yourself.
- Flavor Enhancing Trick: Let the salad sit in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the dressing to fully infuse the ingredients, creating a more complex and delicious flavor profile.
- Customize Your Salad: Feel free to add extra vegetables like diced bell peppers or cucumber for more crunch and nutrition.
- Dressing Tip: Whisk the sesame oil and soy sauce thoroughly to ensure a smooth, well-combined dressing that coats every ingredient evenly.
- Make-Ahead Magic: This salad tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prep or make-ahead lunches.
- Garnish Game: For an extra pop of flavor and texture, toast the sesame seeds lightly in a dry pan before sprinkling them on top.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 420kcal
Carbohydrates: 44g
Protein: 33g
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 60mg
