If you’re looking for a vibrant dish that bursts with flavor, look no further than this Sesame Ginger Orange Chicken Salad. This salad brings together a harmonious blend of crunchy textures and bright flavors, making it the perfect light meal or a delightful side dish. With the umami of the sesame oil, the zing of fresh ginger, and the sweetness of honey and oranges, this salad is not only satisfying but also incredibly easy to prepare. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe that’s sure to impress your family and friends!

What Sets This Recipe Apart

This Sesame Ginger Orange Chicken Salad stands out for its unique combination of ingredients and flavor profiles. The use of fresh ginger and orange zest adds a refreshing twist, while the combination of sesame oils provides a deep, nutty flavor that complements the other ingredients beautifully. The crunchy wonton strips and the slivered almonds or peanuts give the salad a satisfying texture, making every bite a delightful experience. Plus, it’s a great way to use leftover chicken in a creative and delicious way!

What Goes In

To whip up this scrumptious Sesame Ginger Orange Chicken Salad, you will need the following ingredients:

1/3 cup sesame oil
1/4 cup toasted sesame oil
1/3 cup honey
1/3 cup tamari or soy sauce
3 tablespoons rice vinegar
2 tablespoons fresh grated ginger
1-2 cloves garlic, grated
1 rounded tablespoon orange zest
2 tablespoons sesame seeds
Avocado oil, for frying
1 package wonton wrappers, sliced into strips
3 cups shredded cabbage
3 cups shredded lettuce
1-2 cups cooked shredded chicken
1/3 cup slivered almonds or peanuts
1 cup fresh orange slices
2 avocados, sliced
1/3 cup chopped green onions
Chili oil, for serving (optional)

Tools of the Trade

Before you start cooking, gather these essential tools:

Large mixing bowl: For tossing the salad ingredients together.
Whisk: To combine the dressing ingredients smoothly.
Skillet: For frying the wonton strips until crispy.
Grater: To grate ginger and garlic effortlessly.
Knife: For slicing vegetables and chicken.
Cutting board: A stable surface for all your chopping needs.

Cook Sesame Ginger Orange Chicken Salad. Like This

Ready to create your masterpiece? Follow these simple steps:

Step 1: Prepare the Dressing

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the sesame oil, toasted sesame oil, honey, tamari or soy sauce, rice vinegar, grated ginger, garlic, orange zest, and sesame seeds. This fragrant dressing will set the tone for the entire salad.

Step 2: Fry the Wonton Strips

In a skillet, heat a couple of tablespoons of avocado oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the sliced wonton wrappers and fry until they turn golden brown and crispy. Remove them from the oil and let them drain on paper towels.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

In the same large mixing bowl with the dressing, combine the shredded cabbage, shredded lettuce, cooked shredded chicken, slivered almonds or peanuts, fresh orange slices, and sliced avocados. Toss well to ensure everything is evenly coated with the dressing.

Step 4: Add the Wonton Strips

Just before serving, add the crispy wonton strips to the salad and toss gently. This will help keep them crunchy, adding the perfect textural contrast.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Top your salad with chopped green onions for a burst of color and flavor. If you like a bit of heat, drizzle some chili oil over the top. Serve immediately and enjoy this delightful Sesame Ginger Orange Chicken Salad!

Make It Year-Round

This salad is incredibly versatile, making it easy to enjoy year-round. Consider these variations:

Seasonal Veggies: Swap out cabbage and lettuce for whatever greens are in season.
Protein Options: Use grilled shrimp, tofu, or even beef instead of chicken for a different flavor.
Fruit Additions: Experiment with other fruits like mango or strawberries for a unique twist.
Nut Alternatives: Try walnuts or sunflower seeds if you want to change up the crunch factor.

Notes on Ingredients

When selecting your ingredients, consider the following:

Sesame Oils: The combination of regular and toasted sesame oil adds depth to the flavor.
Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh ginger and oranges to enhance the flavor profile significantly.
Wonton Wrappers: You can find these in the refrigerated section of most grocery stores, usually near the tofu.
Chicken: Rotisserie chicken works great for a quick and easy option.

Save It for Later

This Sesame Ginger Orange Chicken Salad is best enjoyed fresh, but you can certainly save leftovers for later. Here are some tips:

Storage: Keep the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The wonton strips may lose their crunch, so consider storing them separately.
Reheating: If you have leftover chicken, you can reheat it gently before adding it to the salad.
Meal Prep: Prepare the dressing and chop the veggies in advance for a quick assembly during the week.

Common Qs About Sesame Ginger Orange Chicken Salad.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dressing and chop the vegetables ahead of time. However, it’s best to assemble the salad just before serving to maintain the crunch of the wonton strips.

What can I use instead of chicken?

Feel free to substitute with grilled shrimp, tofu, or chickpeas for a vegetarian option. Each will bring its unique flavor to the salad!

Is this salad gluten-free?

To make this salad gluten-free, use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari and ensure your wonton wrappers are gluten-free as well.

How can I make this salad spicier?

Add more chili oil or include sliced jalapeños for an extra kick. You can also incorporate a spicy sesame dressing if you prefer!

Desserts to Finish

To complement your Sesame Ginger Orange Chicken Salad, consider these delightful dessert options:

Let’s Eat

Now that you have all the steps and tips to create this vibrant Sesame Ginger Orange Chicken Salad, it’s time to gather your ingredients and get cooking! Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply enjoying a quiet meal at home, this salad is sure to please. Its balance of flavors and textures makes it a winner in any season. So grab a bowl, toss those ingredients together, and enjoy every delicious bite!