Elevate your lunch or light dinner with this vibrant Teriyaki Chicken Salad, a perfect harmony of savory, sweet, and fresh flavors. Tender grilled chicken glazed with homemade teriyaki sauce sits atop a bed of crisp greens, crunchy veggies, and juicy fruits, making every bite a refreshing and satisfying experience. This salad is not only packed with bold Asian-inspired tastes but also quick to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy days when you want something delicious and nutritious.
Light yet satisfying: A perfect meal for those craving something healthy without sacrificing taste.
Quick and easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, great for busy schedules.
Versatile: Serve as a main dish or a hearty side salad.
Customizable: Add nuts, seeds, or your favorite dressing for extra texture and flavor.
Great for meal prep: Keeps well for a few days, perfect for lunches on the go.
Ingredients for Teriyaki Chicken Salad
Juicy grilled chicken breast glazed with sweet and savory teriyaki sauce. Here’s what you’ll need:
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star of the show! They’re lean and perfect for grilling, providing a hearty protein boost.
Teriyaki sauce: This sweet and savory sauce adds depth and flavor. You can use store-bought or make your own for a personal touch.
Mixed salad greens: A colorful mix of romaine, spinach, and arugula brings freshness and crunch to the dish.
Shredded carrots: These add a sweet crunch and vibrant color, making the salad visually appealing.
Sliced cucumbers: Cool and refreshing, cucumbers balance the flavors and add a satisfying crunch.
Cherry tomatoes: Their juicy sweetness complements the savory elements of the salad beautifully.
Sliced red bell pepper: This adds a pop of color and a hint of sweetness, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
Chopped green onions: These provide a mild onion flavor and a fresh finish to the salad.
Sliced almonds: For a nutty crunch, almonds are a great addition. They also add healthy fats!
Crispy chow mein noodles (optional): If you’re looking for extra crunch, these noodles are a fun topping.
Sesame dressing: A drizzle of this dressing ties everything together, adding a rich, nutty flavor.
For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything available for printing. Feel free to mix and match ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand!
How to Make Teriyaki Chicken Salad
Creating a Teriyaki Chicken Salad is a straightforward process that anyone can master. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time!
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Start by taking your boneless, skinless chicken breasts and placing them in a resealable plastic bag. Pour in 1/4 cup of teriyaki sauce, sealing the bag tightly. Give it a good shake to coat the chicken evenly. Let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. If you have time, letting it sit for up to 2 hours will enhance the flavor even more.
Step 2: Grill the Chicken
Once the chicken is marinated, preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard the leftover sauce. Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side. You want it to reach an internal temperature of 165°F. After grilling, let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This helps keep it juicy!
Step 3: Prepare the Salad Base
While the chicken is resting, grab a large bowl and combine your mixed salad greens, shredded carrots, sliced cucumbers, halved cherry tomatoes, sliced red bell pepper, and chopped green onions. This colorful mix not only looks great but also packs a nutritional punch!
Step 4: Assemble the Salad
Now it’s time to bring everything together. Slice the grilled chicken into strips and place it on top of your salad mixture. This adds a hearty element to your dish, making it filling and satisfying.
Step 5: Add Dressings and Toppings
Drizzle the remaining 1/4 cup of teriyaki sauce and your sesame dressing over the salad. Toss everything gently to combine, ensuring each bite is flavorful. For an extra crunch, sprinkle sliced almonds and crispy chow mein noodles on top. Serve immediately and enjoy the delightful flavors of your Teriyaki Chicken Salad!
Tips for Success
Marinate the chicken longer for deeper flavor—up to 2 hours is ideal.
Use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken is perfectly cooked.
Feel free to customize the salad with your favorite veggies.
For added flavor, toast the sliced almonds before adding them.
Make extra teriyaki sauce for dipping or drizzling on leftovers.
Equipment Needed
Grill or Grill Pan: A standard grill works great, but a grill pan on the stovetop is a perfect alternative.
Resealable Plastic Bag: For marinating, any airtight container will do.
Meat Thermometer: Essential for checking chicken doneness; a simple knife can also work to check if juices run clear.
Large Bowl: For mixing your salad; a mixing bowl or even a large plate can suffice.
Variations
Grilled Shrimp: Swap out the chicken for grilled shrimp for a seafood twist that’s equally delicious.
Tofu Option: For a vegetarian version, use marinated and grilled tofu instead of chicken.
Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for some heat.
Fruit Addition: Toss in some mandarin oranges or sliced strawberries for a sweet contrast.
Nut-Free: Omit the almonds and chow mein noodles for a nut-free option, or substitute with sunflower seeds.
Serving Suggestions
Side Dishes: Pair your salad with steamed jasmine rice or a light miso soup for a complete meal.
Drinks: A chilled green tea or a light lager complements the flavors beautifully.
Presentation: Serve in a large bowl for sharing or individual plates for a more elegant touch.
FAQs about Teriyaki Chicken Salad
As you dive into making your Teriyaki Chicken Salad, you might have a few questions. Here are some common queries that can help you along the way:
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can grill the chicken and prepare the salad base in advance. Just keep the dressings separate until you’re ready to serve to maintain freshness.
What can I substitute for teriyaki sauce?
If you’re out of teriyaki sauce, a mix of soy sauce, honey, and a splash of rice vinegar can work as a great alternative. It’ll still give you that sweet and savory flavor!
Is this Teriyaki Chicken Salad gluten-free?
Yes, this salad can be gluten-free! Just ensure you use gluten-free teriyaki sauce and check the labels on any store-bought dressings or toppings.
How can I make this salad more filling?
To make your salad heartier, consider adding quinoa or brown rice. These grains will boost the fiber and protein content, making it a more substantial meal.
Can I use different vegetables in the salad?
Definitely! Feel free to mix in your favorite veggies. Bell peppers, snap peas, or even avocado can add a delightful twist to your Teriyaki Chicken Salad.
Final Thoughts
Creating a Teriyaki Chicken Salad is more than just preparing a meal; it’s about bringing joy to your table. The vibrant colors and fresh ingredients make it a feast for the eyes, while the combination of flavors dances on your palate. Whether you’re enjoying it solo or sharing it with family, this salad is a celebration of health and taste. It’s quick, satisfying, and versatile, making it perfect for any occasion. So, roll up your sleeves, fire up that grill, and let this delightful dish become a staple in your culinary repertoire. You won’t regret it!
8 cups mixed salad greens (such as romaine, spinach, and arugula)
1 cup shredded carrots
1 cup sliced cucumbers
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 cup sliced red bell pepper
1/4 cup chopped green onions
1/4 cup sliced almonds
1/4 cup crispy chow mein noodles (optional)
1/4 cup sesame dressing (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions
In a resealable plastic bag, combine the chicken breasts and 1/4 cup of teriyaki sauce. Seal the bag and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for more flavor.
Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard the marinade. Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F). Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
In a large bowl, combine the mixed salad greens, shredded carrots, cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, red bell pepper, and green onions.
Slice the grilled chicken and place it on top of the salad mixture.
Drizzle the remaining 1/4 cup of teriyaki sauce and sesame dressing over the salad. Toss gently to combine.
Top with sliced almonds and crispy chow mein noodles, if using. Serve immediately.
Notes
For a spicier kick, add sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the salad.
Substitute grilled shrimp or tofu for the chicken for a different protein option.
