There’s something incredibly refreshing about a light pasta salad, especially when you bring in the rich and vibrant flavors of Asia. The moment I tasted this Sesame Pasta Chicken Salad, I was transported to a sunlit kitchen buzzing with laughter and the clinking of chopsticks. With its delightful crunch from toasted sesame seeds and a savory dressing that’s both tangy and sweet, this dish is a celebration of flavor and texture that perfectly balances comfort with excitement.
After enduring yet another string of uninspiring takeout meals, I found myself longing for something homemade that didn’t require hours in the kitchen. This easy recipe ticks all the boxes: it’s quick to prepare, packed with nutrition, and makes for a wonderful crowd-pleaser, whether it’s a weekday dinner or a backyard barbecue. Plus, the combination of tender chicken and vibrant veggies tossed in a luscious dressing keeps it light and satisfying without feeling heavy.
So, grab your favorite bowl and prepare to whip up this Sesame Pasta Chicken Salad—you won’t regret diving into this heavenly mix that’s guaranteed to become a regular in your meal rotation!
Why is Sesame Pasta Chicken Salad a Must-Try?
Bold flavors collide in this dish, making every bite a delightful experience.
- Quick Preparation: Ready in just 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights!
- Nutritional Boost: Packed with protein from chicken and the goodness of fresh vegetables.
- Crowd-Pleasing: Ideal for potlucks or family gatherings—it’s a dish everyone will rave about.
- Vibrant Colors: The combination of green onions and cilantro not only brings flavor but looks stunning!
- Versatile: Switch chicken for tofu or add extra veggies for a personal touch.
With its irresistible taste and easy prep, you’ll find this Sesame Pasta Chicken Salad rejuvenating your dinner routine!
Sesame Pasta Chicken Salad Ingredients
A symphony of flavors awaits with these fresh and zesty ingredients!
For the Salad
- Bow tie pasta – the perfect shape to hold all those delightful flavors and textures.
- Shredded cooked chicken breast – adds a lean protein boost to keep you satisfied.
- Chopped fresh cilantro – lends a burst of freshness and a hint of citrusy flavor.
- Chopped green onion – brings a mild onion flavor and a lovely crunch to the dish.
For the Dressing
- Vegetable oil – a neutral base that allows the other flavors to shine through.
- Light soy sauce – adds that unmistakable umami depth crucial to Asian cuisine.
- Rice vinegar – contributes a tangy brightness that balances the sweetness.
- Sesame oil – a little goes a long way for that distinctive nutty aroma.
- White sugar – balances the savory flavors with a touch of sweetness.
- Ground ginger – enhances the salad with a warm, spicy note that invigorates the palate.
- Ground black pepper – for that gentle kick to spice things up!
- Sesame seeds – toasting them first amplifies their nutty flavor, making this dish even more addictive.
With these essential ingredients, your Sesame Pasta Chicken Salad will be bursting with flavor and sure to please everyone at the table!
How to Make Sesame Pasta Chicken Salad
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Toast the Seeds: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add sesame seeds, cooking and stirring frequently until lightly golden and aromatic, about 3-5 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
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Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Add the bow tie pasta and cook for 8 to 10 minutes, or until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water until cool. Transfer to a large mixing bowl.
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Prepare the Dressing: In a jar with a tight-fitting lid, combine vegetable oil, light soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, white sugar, toasted sesame seeds, ground ginger, and black pepper. Shake well until combined and the sugar is dissolved.
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Combine Ingredients: Pour the dressing over the cooled pasta, tossing to coat evenly. Gently mix in the shredded chicken, chopped cilantro, and green onions until everything is well-distributed.
Optional: Garnish with extra sesame seeds before serving for added crunch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Sesame Pasta Chicken Salad components are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the pasta and dressing up to 24 hours in advance, making your weeknight dinners a breeze. Simply cook the bow tie pasta and let it cool, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The dressing can be made ahead as well; just keep it chilled in the jar. To maintain the salad’s freshness, mix in the shredded chicken, cilantro, and green onions just before serving. This way, your salad remains vibrant and full of flavor, ensuring you’ll enjoy just as delicious results with minimal last-minute effort!
How to Store and Freeze Sesame Pasta Chicken Salad
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Fridge: Store your salad in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This helps maintain its freshness while keeping the flavors intact.
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Freezer: For freezing, separate the chicken salad and dressing. The salad can be frozen for up to 1 month, but it’s best enjoyed fresh.
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Reheating: If the salad sits in the fridge for a day or two, give it a good toss before serving. You can enjoy it cold or at room temperature—no need to reheat!
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Ingredient Considerations: Keep in mind that some vegetables, like cilantro and green onions, may lose their texture when frozen. It’s best to add those fresh after thawing.
What to Serve with Sesame Pasta Chicken Salad?
For a delightful meal that balances flavors and textures beautifully, consider these complementary dishes!
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Crunchy Spring Rolls: These fresh rolls, filled with crisp veggies and herbs, provide a refreshing contrast to the savory pasta salad.
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Teriyaki Grilled Chicken Skewers: Juicy skewers offer a smoky sweetness that pairs wonderfully with the pasta’s tangy dressing and enriches your meal.
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Cucumber Salad: Lightly pickled cucumbers add a delightful crunch and a cooling acidity that complements the sesame flavors perfectly.
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Miso Soup: A warm miso soup brings a comforting depth that enhances the Asian flair of the pasta salad, making your meal even more satisfying.
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Chilled Sake: Enjoy a glass of chilled sake as it elevates the meal experience, offering a gentle sweetness that harmonizes with the salad.
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Mango Sorbet: End your meal on a sweet note with a mango sorbet; its fruity brightness refreshes the palate, creating a perfect finale!
With these pairings, your Sesame Pasta Chicken Salad will be the star of a memorable dining experience!
Sesame Pasta Chicken Salad Variations
Feel free to get creative with this dish; there are plenty of ways to add your personal touch!
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Noodle Swap: Substitute bow tie pasta with soba noodles for a more traditional Asian twist. The nutty flavor of buckwheat complements the sesame beautifully.
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Vegetarian Delight: Use tofu or chickpeas to replace chicken, keeping the same savory flavor while making it plant-based. Trust me, the taste and texture will still be delightful!
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Extra Crunch: Toss in some finely chopped bell peppers or shredded carrots for an added crunch and a splash of color. These veggies not only brighten the dish but enhance the overall texture.
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Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of sriracha or red pepper flakes to the dressing for an exhilarating heat level. It’s a fun way to wake up those taste buds!
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Nutty Addition: Try adding chopped peanuts or cashews for an extra crunchy surprise. They add delightful texture and a nutty dimension to the salad.
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Herb Boost: Mix in fresh basil or mint along with cilantro for an aromatic twist. Each herb has its own story, and they can elevate your dish to new heights!
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Citrusy Brightness: Squeeze in some fresh lime juice to the dressing for a zesty uplift. The bright acidity complements all the savory elements beautifully.
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Fruit Fusion: Incorporate diced mango or pineapple for a sweet contrast to the savory ingredients. It’s a refreshing burst of flavor that brings summer to your table all year long!
Helpful Tricks for Sesame Pasta Chicken Salad
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Perfectly Toasted Seeds: Keep an eye on sesame seeds while toasting; they can burn quickly. Lightly golden is what you aim for!
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Al Dente Pasta: Cook your bow tie pasta until just al dente. This ensures it holds up in the salad and doesn’t become mushy when mixed with the dressing.
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Chill for Flavor: Allow the salad to sit for at least 30 minutes before serving. This enhances flavors as they meld together beautifully.
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Protein Substitutions: If you’re looking for a lighter option, replace chicken with tofu or chickpeas for a vegetarian twist in your Sesame Pasta Chicken Salad.
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Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh herbs like cilantro and green onions for the best flavor. Wilted or old produce can dampen the refreshing nature of your dish.
Sesame Pasta Chicken Salad Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right pasta for my Sesame Pasta Chicken Salad?
Absolutely! For this recipe, bow tie pasta is ideal because its shape holds onto the dressing and ingredients beautifully. If you want to swap it out, you can try fusilli or rotini, which also have great texture.
How do I store the leftover Sesame Pasta Chicken Salad?
Very simply! Transfer the salad into an airtight container and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. This will help maintain its freshness and flavor. Just give it a good toss before serving for optimal taste!
Can I freeze Sesame Pasta Chicken Salad?
Certainly! To freeze, I recommend separating the salad and the dressing. The salad can be frozen for up to 1 month, but it’s best enjoyed fresh. Just remember that some ingredients like cilantro and green onions may lose their texture in the freeze, so it’s best to add those when you thaw and serve.
What if my pasta salad seems too dry after storing?
No worries! Sometimes, pasta can absorb the dressing, making the salad dry. Just add a splash of the prepared dressing or a bit of olive oil before serving to revitalize it. This simple trick will enhance the flavor and texture!
Are there any common allergies to consider with this recipe?
Yes, definitely! The key ingredients in the sauce include soy sauce, which contains gluten, and sesame seeds, which are common allergens. For those with gluten sensitivities, look for gluten-free soy sauce. You can also substitute sesame oil with olive oil if needed. Always be sure to double-check ingredient labels to accommodate dietary restrictions.
How can I improve the flavor of my salad?
A great tip is to let the salad sit for at least 30 minutes after mixing before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully! Alternatively, you can add crushed red pepper flakes or a squeeze of lime juice for a little zest if you prefer an extra kick!
Savory Sesame Pasta Chicken Salad with a Twist
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Toast the sesame seeds in a skillet over medium-high heat until lightly golden, about 3-5 minutes.
- In a large pot, boil lightly salted water and add the bow tie pasta. Cook for 8-10 minutes until al dente, then drain and rinse with cold water.
- In a jar, combine vegetable oil, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, sugar, toasted sesame seeds, ginger, and pepper. Shake well until sugar is dissolved.
- Pour the dressing over the cooled pasta and toss to coat. Mix in the chicken, cilantro, and green onions.
