Sesame Noodle Salad with Grilled Chicken

Name: Sesame Noodle Salad with Grilled Chicken
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz. soba noodles; 2 cups mixed salad greens; 1 cup shredded carrots; 1 red bell pepper, sliced; 1 cup cucumber, thinly sliced; 1/2 cup green onions, sliced; 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped; 2 grilled chicken breasts, sliced; 1/4 cup sesame oil; 2 tbsp soy sauce; 1 tbsp rice vinegar; 1 tbsp honey; 1 tsp grated ginger; 1 clove garlic, minced; Sesame seeds for garnish

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I love the vibrant flavors of this Sesame Noodle Salad with Grilled Chicken. It combines the nutty richness of sesame oil with the fresh crunch of vegetables and a hint of sweetness. We often prepare this dish for outdoor gatherings, where its colorful presentation and refreshing taste shine. The grilled chicken adds a savory depth that makes this salad a complete meal. It's simple to prepare and perfect for both casual lunches and elegant dinners, making it one of my go-to recipes.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-07T19:25:27.808Z

One of my favorite things about cooking is experimenting with different flavors and ingredients. When I first tried making a sesame noodle salad, I was amazed by how well the grilled chicken complemented the nutty sesame dressing. The secret lies in allowing the noodles to soak up the flavors while the chicken is marinated for maximum tenderness. It’s a quick and healthy meal that never disappoints.

I discovered that adding fresh herbs like cilantro and scallions brightened the dish, enhancing both flavor and visual appeal. Engaging with these ingredients brings a delightful aromatic experience. Remember to toss in some colorful bell peppers for extra crunch—they're not only tasty but also make the salad pop on the plate!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
The nutty sesame dressing ties every element together perfectly.
Grilled chicken adds a savory touch that elevates the salad.
Packed with fresh vegetables for a satisfying crunch.

Mastering Soba Noodles

Soba noodles are a key component in this salad; their nutty flavor complements the sesame dressing beautifully. Cook them just until they are al dente—usually 5-7 minutes, depending on the brand. It's crucial to rinse them under cold water immediately after draining to prevent further cooking and to help stop the starch from sticking. This technique enhances their texture, keeping the noodles firm and perfectly separate for a fresh salad experience.

If you can’t find soba noodles, you can substitute them with whole wheat or rice noodles, adjusting the cooking times as needed. However, keep in mind that this salad calls for soba for its unique flavor and health benefits. Soba noodles are often lower in calories and higher in protein compared to traditional pasta, making this dish a nutritious choice.

Balancing the Dressing

The dressing is what ties all the ingredients together, and the balance of flavors is essential. The sesame oil adds depth with its toasted aroma, while the honey contributes just the right amount of sweetness. If you prefer a spicier twist, consider adding a splash of sriracha or chili oil to the dressing. Just remember, it’s easy to adjust the sweetness; taste as you mix, and add more honey if desired.

It's also worth noting that letting the dressing sit for about 10 minutes before tossing it with the salad allows the flavors to meld beautifully. This resting time also softens the garlic's sharpness and enhances the dressing's overall flavor, making each bite more satisfying. When you toss the salad, make sure every noodle and vegetable is coated for a cohesive taste experience.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

This salad is perfect for meal prep; you can store it covered in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you anticipate leftovers, consider keeping the grilled chicken and the salad components separate until you're ready to eat. This prevents the vegetables from wilting and ensures the chicken stays juicy. Just toss everything with the dressing just before serving to maintain freshness and crunch.

For serving, I enjoy adding a sprinkle of crushed nuts, such as peanuts or almonds, for extra texture and flavor. You can also customize the salad by incorporating other seasonal vegetables, such as snap peas or radishes, for a twist. This versatility allows it to shine as a light lunch, a vibrant side dish, or even as a main plate for dinner gatherings.

Ingredients

Salad Ingredients

8 oz. soba noodles
2 cups mixed salad greens
1 cup shredded carrots
1 red bell pepper, sliced
1 cup cucumber, thinly sliced
1/2 cup green onions, sliced
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
2 grilled chicken breasts, sliced

Dressing Ingredients

1/4 cup sesame oil
2 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp rice vinegar
1 tbsp honey
1 tsp grated ginger
1 clove garlic, minced
Sesame seeds for garnish

Instructions

Cook the Noodles

Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the soba noodles and cook according to package instructions, usually about 5-7 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking.

Prepare the Dressing

In a bowl, whisk together sesame oil, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, grated ginger, and minced garlic until combined.

Grill the Chicken

Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Grill over medium heat for about 5-6 minutes on each side, or until cooked through. Let rest before slicing.

Assemble the Salad

In a large bowl, combine the cooked noodles, mixed greens, carrots, bell pepper, cucumber, green onions, and cilantro. Drizzle with the dressing and toss to combine.

Serve

Top with sliced grilled chicken and sprinkle with sesame seeds. Serve immediately, or refrigerate for a cold salad option.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, marinate the grilled chicken in the dressing for 30 minutes before cooking. Feel free to customize the vegetables based on your preference or seasonal availability.

Troubleshooting Grilled Chicken

Grilling chicken breasts can be tricky, as it’s easy to overcook them. To avoid dryness, use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 165°F for perfectly cooked chicken. If you find your chicken too dry, marinating it for at least an hour prior to grilling can help it retain moisture and infuse flavor. A simple marinade of soy sauce, ginger, and garlic can enhance the profile and complement the overall dish.

If you don’t have access to a grill, feel free to use a grill pan or even bake the chicken. For baking, cook at 425°F for about 20-25 minutes, turning once halfway through. Whichever method you choose, letting the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes after cooking is essential. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring your slices remain succulent.

Variations on the Recipe

For a vegetarian version, consider substituting the grilled chicken with baked tofu or chickpeas. Both options add protein and are a wonderful contrast to the salad's crunchy texture. Tofu can be marinated in the same dressing before cooking to infuse it with flavor, while roasted chickpeas can bring a delightful crunch.

You can also experiment with different noodle types such as rice vermicelli for a gluten-free option. The key is to maintain the balance of flavors from the dressing and vegetables. Adding or swapping ingredients like avocado, edamame, or even mango slices can bring new dimensions and make this salad tailored to seasonal ingredients or personal preferences.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the salad and dressing separately and combine them just before serving to keep the ingredients fresh.

→ What can I substitute for soba noodles?

You can use rice noodles or even whole wheat spaghetti as an alternative.

→ Is this salad gluten-free?

To make this salad gluten-free, use gluten-free soy sauce and substitute soba noodles with a gluten-free option.

→ Can I add other proteins?

Definitely! Shrimp or tofu would also work well in this salad.