Description of this recipe

This Teriyaki Chicken Salad is a vibrant and flavorful dish that combines the savory sweetness of teriyaki chicken with the crisp freshness of salad greens. It’s a delightful fusion of Japanese-inspired flavors and classic salad components, making it a satisfying and nutritious meal.

Why you will love this recipe

You’ll adore this Teriyaki Chicken Salad for its harmonious blend of textures and tastes. The tender, glazed teriyaki chicken provides a protein-rich foundation, while the mixed greens, red cabbage, cucumbers, and carrots offer a symphony of crispness and freshness. The sesame seeds add a delightful crunch and nutty aroma, complementing the savory teriyaki dressing. This salad is quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for a light lunch, a satisfying dinner, or even a potluck gathering. It’s a customizable dish, allowing you to adjust the ingredients to suit your preferences and dietary needs. Whether you’re a seasoned salad enthusiast or a newcomer to the world of healthy eating, this Teriyaki Chicken Salad is sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire.

Ingredients:

• Salad:
  • 2 cups mixed greens (such as romaine lettuce, spinach, or spring mix)
  • 1 cup shredded red cabbage
  • 1 cup cooked teriyaki chicken, sliced (see instructions below for teriyaki chicken recipe)
  • 1/2 cup sliced cucumbers
  • 1/4 cup shredded carrots
  • 2 tablespoons sesame seeds, toasted (optional)
• Dressing:
  • 2 tablespoons teriyaki sauce
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• Teriyaki Chicken:
  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons mirin (Japanese sweet rice wine)
  • 1 tablespoon sake (Japanese rice wine) or dry sherry
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 1 teaspoon grated ginger
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 teaspoons water

Preparation:

Step 1: Prepare the Teriyaki Chicken

Begin by preparing the teriyaki chicken. In a medium bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, mirin, sake (or dry sherry), sugar, grated ginger, and minced garlic. This will create the marinade for the chicken.

Add the bite-sized chicken pieces to the marinade and toss to ensure they are evenly coated. Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes, or preferably longer (up to a few hours) in the refrigerator. The longer the chicken marinates, the more flavorful it will become.

Step 2: Cook the Teriyaki Chicken

Heat a non-stick skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade, reserving the marinade for later use.

Add the chicken to the hot skillet and cook until it is browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Be careful not to overcrowd the pan, as this will steam the chicken instead of browning it. If necessary, cook the chicken in batches.

Step 3: Thicken the Teriyaki Sauce

Once the chicken is cooked, pour the reserved marinade into the skillet. Bring the marinade to a simmer and cook for a few minutes, until it starts to thicken slightly.

Add the cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with water) to the skillet and stir constantly until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency. This should only take a minute or two.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad

In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, shredded red cabbage, sliced cucumbers, and shredded carrots. Toss the salad ingredients gently to ensure they are evenly distributed.

Step 5: Dress and Serve

Drizzle the teriyaki dressing over the salad. Toss gently to coat the ingredients evenly.

Arrange the teriyaki chicken over the salad. Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds, if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy the delightful fusion of flavors and textures.

COOKING Rating:

Easy

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve as a light lunch or dinner.
• Pack for a healthy and flavorful picnic.
• Bring to a potluck or barbecue.
• Serve with a side of steamed rice or edamame for a more complete meal.

Tips:

• For a vegetarian option, replace the chicken with tofu or tempeh.
• Add other vegetables such as bell peppers, snap peas, or cherry tomatoes for added color and nutrients.
• Use pre-cooked teriyaki chicken to save time.
• Make the dressing ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator.
• Toast the sesame seeds for a nuttier flavor.
• Adjust the amount of teriyaki sauce to your liking.
• If you like a spicier salad, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing.

Prep Time:

20 minutes

Cook Time:

15 minutes

Total Time:

35 minutes

Nutritional Information:

(Note: Nutritional information is approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.)

• Calories: 350
• Protein: 30g
• Sodium: 700mg

Conclusion

This Teriyaki Chicken Salad is a delightful and satisfying dish that offers a symphony of flavors and textures. The savory sweetness of the teriyaki chicken complements the crisp freshness of the salad greens, creating a well-balanced and nutritious meal. It’s a versatile recipe that can be customized to suit your preferences and dietary needs, making it a perfect addition to your culinary repertoire. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy lunch, a flavorful dinner, or a healthy potluck option, this Teriyaki Chicken Salad is sure to impress. So, gather your ingredients, follow the simple instructions, and embark on a culinary adventure that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving for more. Enjoy the vibrant colors, the enticing aromas, and the unforgettable flavors of this exceptional salad.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can I use pre-cooked teriyaki chicken for this recipe?

A: Yes, you can definitely use pre-cooked teriyaki chicken to save time. Simply slice it and add it to the salad as instructed. This is a great option for busy weeknights when you’re short on time.

Q2: Can I make the dressing ahead of time?

A: Absolutely! The teriyaki dressing can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. This is a convenient way to prepare for the salad in advance and save time when you’re ready to assemble it.

Q3: Can I add other vegetables to this salad?

A: Of course! Feel free to add other vegetables to the salad to suit your preferences and dietary needs. Bell peppers, snap peas, cherry tomatoes, and avocado are all great additions. The more vegetables you add, the more colorful and nutritious the salad will be.

Q4: Can I use a different type of lettuce for this salad?

A: Yes, you can use any type of lettuce that you enjoy. Romaine lettuce, spinach, and spring mix are all good options. Choose a lettuce that is crisp and fresh for the best texture.

Q5: Can I make this salad vegetarian?

A: Yes, you can easily make this salad vegetarian by replacing the chicken with tofu or tempeh. Simply marinate the tofu or tempeh in the teriyaki sauce and cook it according to the instructions. This will create a delicious and protein-rich vegetarian option.