Spicy Honey Sesame Chicken Salad

Spicy Honey Sesame Chicken Salad

Table of Contents

This Spicy Honey Sesame Chicken Salad is a perfect blend of sweet, spicy, and savory flavors. Juicy, pan-seared chicken bites are coated in a sticky honey-sesame sauce with a kick of sriracha, then served over a fresh, crisp salad with vibrant veggies. It’s a quick, protein-packed meal that’s both healthy and satisfying—perfect for lunch or dinner!

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

Ingredients:

For the Chicken:

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)

1 tbsp olive oil

Salt & pepper (to taste)

1/2 tsp garlic powder

For the Sauce:

3 tbsp honey

2 tbsp soy sauce

1 tbsp sriracha (adjust for spice level)

1 tbsp rice vinegar (or white vinegar)

1 tsp sesame oil

1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)

1 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water (slurry)

1 tsp sesame seeds (for garnish)

For the Salad:

4 cups mixed salad greens (lettuce, spinach, or arugula)

1/2 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)

1/2 cup corn kernels

1/4 cup shredded carrots (optional)

1/4 cup red bell peppers (sliced)

Instructions:

Prepare the Chicken:

Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.

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Add the chicken, season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.

Cook until golden brown and fully cooked (about 6-8 minutes).

Make the Sauce:

In a small saucepan, whisk together honey, soy sauce, sriracha, vinegar, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes.

Bring to a simmer, then add the cornstarch slurry.

Stir until the sauce thickens (about 2 minutes).

Coat the Chicken:

Pour the sauce over the cooked chicken and toss until evenly coated.

Sprinkle with sesame seeds.

Assemble the Salad:

In a large bowl, arrange salad greens, cherry tomatoes, corn, carrots, and bell peppers.

Top with the spicy honey sesame chicken.

Serve & Enjoy:

Drizzle extra sauce if desired.

Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious, spicy, and healthy chicken salad!

Spicy Honey Sesame Chicken Salad – Tips & FAQ

Q: Can I make this salad ahead of time?

A: Yes! You can prep the salad ingredients and cook the chicken in advance. Store them separately and toss everything together just before serving to keep the salad fresh and crisp.

Q: How can I make this dish spicier or milder?

A: To make it spicier, add extra sriracha or red pepper flakes. For a milder version, reduce the sriracha or omit the red pepper flakes entirely.

Q: What’s the best way to cook the chicken?

A: Pan-searing gives the best caramelization, but you can also air fry (at 380°F for 10-12 minutes) or bake at 400°F for 15-18 minutes.

Q: Can I use a different protein?

A: Absolutely! Try shrimp, tofu, or even salmon as an alternative protein source.

Q: What can I serve with this salad?

A: It pairs well with a side of quinoa, brown rice, or a light soup for a complete meal.

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Q: How do I store leftovers?

A: Store the chicken and salad separately in airtight containers. The chicken can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated before serving.

Spicy Honey Sesame Chicken Salad – Nutrition Facts (Per Serving, Approximate)

Calories: ~350-400 kcal
Protein: ~30g
Carbohydrates: ~35g
Fats: ~10g
Fiber: ~4g
Sugar: ~20g
Sodium: ~600mg (varies based on soy sauce)

Notes:

To reduce sugar, use less honey or swap with a sugar-free alternative.

To lower sodium, use low-sodium soy sauce.

Add more fiber by increasing veggies like bell peppers, carrots, or cucumbers.