As I stood in my kitchen, the sun streaming through the window, I had a craving for something vibrant and refreshing. That’s when the idea for a Healthy Paleo Sesame Chicken Chopped Salad came to life! Combining tender marinated chicken with a delightful mix of crunch from green and red cabbage, carrots, and a burst of sweetness from mandarin oranges, this salad is the perfect antidote to the usual heavy meals. It’s not just quick to prepare, but also a healthy option that keeps your energy high and your tastebuds happy. Whether you’re hosting a summer gathering or meal prepping for the week ahead, this dish is sure to impress without the excess sugars or sugars found in traditional dressings. Ready to dive into this colorful culinary creation? Let’s whip up that salad!

Why Is This Salad So Special?

Bursting with fresh flavors, this Sesame Chicken Chopped Salad is a delightful way to enjoy clean, healthy eating. Quick preparation means you won’t spend hours in the kitchen – this recipe is perfect for busy weekdays. Paleo-friendly and gluten-free, it’s suitable for various dietary preferences without sacrificing flavor. Colorful veggies add not only nutrition but also visual appeal, making it a feast for the senses. Pair it with other favorites like Healthy Sesame Chicken for a wholesome meal experience or check out my Low Carb Chicken recipes for more delicious ideas!

Sesame Chicken Chopped Salad Ingredients

For the Dressing

Coconut Aminos – Adds umami flavor and serves as a soy sauce substitute; use tamari for a soy option.
Red Wine Vinegar – Provides acidity to balance flavors; apple cider vinegar can substitute for a milder taste.
Avocado Oil – Adds healthy fats and a light flavor; substitute with olive oil if preferred.
Toasted Sesame Oil – Contributes a nutty aroma; can omit if not available or use a few drops for flavor.
Minced Ginger – Freshness enhances the dressing; dried ginger is an alternative but will change the flavor intensity.
Onion Powder – Adds depth and subtle sweetness; fresh onion can substitute but will alter the flavor profile.
Salt & Pepper – Essential for seasoning; adjust to personal taste.

For the Salad

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs – Juicy and flavorful; thighs absorb marinades well, but chicken breasts can be used for a lighter texture.
Diced Green Onions – Adds freshness and color; substitute with finely diced red onion if desired.
Green Cabbage – Provides a crunchy base; use a whole small cabbage or half of a large one.
Red Cabbage – Offers color contrast; can fully replace with green cabbage.
Shredded/Matchstick Carrots – Provide sweetness and crunch; use pre-cut or grate fresh carrots for convenience.
Sliced Almonds – Adds crunch and healthy fats; omit for nut-free variations.
Mandarin Oranges (no sugar/syrup) – Imparts sweetness to balance the salad; substitute with fresh pineapple for a tropical twist.
Chopped Cilantro – Brings brightness and freshness; can be replaced with parsley if preferred.
Black and White Sesame Seeds – Provide visual appeal and nutty flavor; can use one or the other or omit altogether.

With these wholesome ingredients, your Sesame Chicken Chopped Salad will come to life, showcasing vibrant textures and flavors while keeping your health goals in check!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Sesame Chicken Chopped Salad

Step 1: Make the Dressing
In a medium bowl, whisk together ⅓ cup of coconut aminos, 2 tablespoons of red wine vinegar, 3 tablespoons of avocado oil, and 1 teaspoon of toasted sesame oil. Add 1 teaspoon of minced ginger, ½ teaspoon of onion powder, and season with salt and pepper to taste. This sesame dressing should be well combined and fragrant, ready to enhance your Sesame Chicken Chopped Salad.

Step 2: Marinate Chicken
Place 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken thighs into a large resealable plastic bag. Pour 3-4 tablespoons of the prepared dressing over the chicken, ensuring each piece is coated. Seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. For best results, marinate for up to 2 hours.

Step 3: Cook Chicken
Heat a skillet over medium heat, then add the marinated chicken thighs. Cook for about 6-8 minutes on each side until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F. Alternatively, grill the chicken for a slightly smoky flavor. Once done, remove from heat and let it rest for a few minutes before chopping.

Step 4: Prepare Salad Base
While the chicken is cooking, take a large mixing bowl and combine 4 cups of chopped green cabbage, 2 cups of shredded red cabbage, 1 cup of shredded carrots, ¼ cup of sliced almonds, and 1 cup of mandarin oranges. Add in ½ cup of diced green onions and a handful of chopped cilantro for freshness. This colorful mix will be the heart of your Sesame Chicken Chopped Salad.

Step 5: Combine and Serve
Once the chicken has cooled enough to handle, chop it into bite-sized pieces and add to the salad bowl. Drizzle the remaining dressing over the top, toss everything together gently, making sure the salad is well coated. Serve immediately to enjoy the fresh flavors, or cover and refrigerate for up to two hours for a more coleslaw-like texture.

Sesame Chicken Chopped Salad Variations

Feel free to let your creativity shine and customize this scrumptious salad to match your taste buds and dietary preferences!

Shrimp or Tofu: Swap out the chicken for grilled shrimp or tofu to create a different protein profile. Each option brings its unique flavor, making it just as delectable!
Seasonal Veggies: Substitute in seasonal vegetables, such as bell peppers or snap peas, to add fresh flavors and vibrant colors. These swaps will keep the salad exciting all year round!
Extra Heat: For those who crave a bit of spice, incorporate sriracha or chili flakes into the dressing. This fiery addition will elevate the taste and wake up your palate!
Nut-Free: Omit the sliced almonds for a nut-free version, or replace them with sunflower seeds for a similar satisfying crunch. Your salad will still be delightful without the nuts!
Fresh Fruit Twist: Replace mandarin oranges with juicy fresh pineapple for a tropical flair. This fruity alternative will add a sweet and tangy surprise to every bite!
Herb Swap: If cilantro’s not your thing, feel free to substitute it with parsley. The fresh green hue adds brightness, ensuring your salad remains vibrant and zesty!
More Crunch: For additional texture, sprinkle on some roasted chickpeas or crispy lotus root chips. They’ll add an unexpected crunch that complements the fresh veggies beautifully!

This light, satisfying dish is perfect for any occasion, and if you’re looking for more ideas, try pairing it with Healthy Sesame Chicken for a well-rounded meal or serve alongside my Rolled Chicken Feta for something extra special!

What to Serve with Sesame Chicken Chopped Salad

Bring your dining experience to the next level with these complementary delights that perfectly harmonize with the vibrant flavors of your salad.

Creamy Avocado Toast: The rich creaminess of avocado spread on toasted bread adds a delicious contrast and enhances the overall meal with healthy fats.
Crispy Sweet Potato Fries: These sweet, crispy fries provide both sweetness and crunch, making each bite a delightful adventure alongside your salad.
Zucchini Noodles: Light and refreshing, zucchini noodles add a fun twist and extra nutrients. Toss them with olive oil and garlic for flavor.
Grilled Shrimp Skewers: Tender and smoky shrimp complement the freshness of the salad, offering a succulent protein option that’s both light and satisfying.
Cucumber Mint Salad: The coolness of cucumbers and mint offers a refreshing bite that balances the warmth of the chicken. This vibrant salad adds a lovely textural contrast.
Chilled Green Tea: Refreshing and slightly sweet, chilled green tea serves as a wonderful drink choice to cleanse the palate without overpowering the dish.
Mango Sorbet: For a light dessert, serve mango sorbet. Its fruity brightness will cleanse your palate after the savory salad and leave you feeling refreshed.

Make Ahead Options

This Healthy Paleo Sesame Chicken Chopped Salad is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to save time during busy weeknights. You can marinate the chicken thighs up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring they’re packed with flavor when you cook them. Additionally, you can prepare the salad base—cabbages, carrots, green onions, and almonds—up to 3 days ahead; simply store these components in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain their crispness. However, be sure to add the dressing only just before serving to prevent wilting, keeping your salad just as delicious as fresh. When you’re ready to dine, toss everything together and enjoy this vibrant dish without the fuss!

Expert Tips for Sesame Chicken Chopped Salad

Marinate for Flavor: Allow the chicken to marinate for up to 2 hours for deeper flavor infusion, enhancing the taste of your salad.
Serve Fresh: For the best texture, add the dressing just before serving to maintain the crispness of the veggies in your Sesame Chicken Chopped Salad.
Customize Ingredients: Feel free to swap in seasonal vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas for variety while keeping the dish exciting and fresh.
Nut-Free Option: Omit the sliced almonds if you’re preparing a nut-free version or replace them with sunflower seeds for a similar crunch.
Make Ahead: For easy meal prep, store dressing and salad components separately in the fridge. This keeps everything fresh for up to three days.
Add Some Heat: If you love a spicy kick, mix some sriracha or chili flakes into the dressing for an exciting flavor boost!

How to Store and Freeze Sesame Chicken Chopped Salad

Fridge: Store the salad in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keep the dressing separate until serving to maintain the freshness and crispness of the vegetables.

Freezer: For best quality, avoid freezing the salad as it contains fresh vegetables that may become soggy when thawed. If you must freeze, only freeze the marinated chicken separately for up to 3 months.

Reheating: If you’ve stored the chicken separately, reheat it in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, avoiding overheating the salad components.

Make-Ahead Tip: This salad can be prepped in advance by chopping vegetables and marinating chicken ahead of time, making weeknight dinners a breeze!

Sesame Chicken Chopped Salad Recipe FAQs

How do I choose ripe ingredients for my salad?
Absolutely! For the best taste, select crisp green and red cabbages; they should be firm with vibrant colors and no dark spots. When choosing carrots, opt for ones that are bright orange and smooth, while your mandarin oranges should be plump and juicy for that sweet burst in the salad!

How should I store my Sesame Chicken Chopped Salad?
You can store this salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To keep the crunchiness of the veggies, be sure to keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve. This way, your salad will remain fresh and vibrant!

Can I freeze any part of this recipe?
Very! Although it’s best not to freeze the salad itself due to the fresh vegetables, you can freeze the marinated chicken separately for up to 3 months. To do this, place the marinated chicken in a resealable bag, removing as much air as possible before sealing. When you’re ready to use, let it thaw in the fridge overnight before cooking.

What should I do if my salad tastes too salty?
If you find your salad a bit too salty, try adding a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a bit more shredded cabbage to balance the flavors. Alternatively, adding a dollop of avocado or a sprinkle of more mandarin oranges will help lighten it up as well!

Is this salad suitable for people with nut allergies?
Yes, definitely! If you’re preparing this Sesame Chicken Chopped Salad for someone with nut allergies, simply omit the sliced almonds. You can substitute them with sunflower seeds for a nut-free crunch that still brings texture to your dish.

Can I make this salad ahead of time for meal prep?
Absolutely! You can prep the salad components in advance. Chop the veggies and marinate the chicken a day ahead, storing everything separately in the refrigerator. This makes for an easy weeknight dinner without compromising on freshness or flavor!