Sesame Citrus Chicken Salad

Name: Sesame Citrus Chicken Salad
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded; 4 cups mixed greens (like spinach, arugula, and romaine); 1 cup cucumber, sliced; 1 cup mandarin oranges, drained; 1/2 cup bell pepper, thinly sliced; 1/4 cup scallions, chopped; 2 tablespoons sesame seeds, toasted; 1/4 cup olive oil; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; Juice of 1 orange; Juice of 1 lemon; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 1 tablespoon honey; 1 teaspoon grated ginger; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Home Cooking

I love whipping up this Sesame Citrus Chicken Salad when I need something light yet satisfying. The combination of tender chicken, crisp greens, and a zesty dressing is not only refreshing but also bursting with flavor. I find myself coming back to this recipe time and again, especially on warm days, because it’s so quick to prepare. With a sprinkle of sesame seeds for crunch and a citrus kick, each bite feels like a bright celebration of taste. It's perfect for lunch or as a side dish at gatherings!

Created by

Leo

Last updated on 2026-02-06T15:01:27.329Z

When I first tried making this Sesame Citrus Chicken Salad, I knew I was onto something special. I wanted a dish that could be both nourishing and delightful to the palate. After experimenting with different dressings, I found that blending fresh citrus juice with a touch of sesame oil resulted in a flavor that truly pops.

One thing I discovered is that letting the chicken marinate for a bit enhances the overall flavor tremendously. I usually allow the chicken to soak up the citrusy goodness for about 15 minutes before cooking. It makes all the difference, and my family always requests seconds!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Crisp vegetables paired with juicy chicken for a delightful crunch
Bright citrus dressing that balances everything beautifully
Quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights

      

Understanding the Ingredients

Each component of this Sesame Citrus Chicken Salad plays a crucial role in creating a balanced flavor profile. The shredded chicken serves as the protein base, providing essential nutrients and a deliciously tender texture. Opt for rotisserie chicken for convenience, or poach your chicken in seasoned water for a homemade option that keeps the meat moist yet light. Remember to let the chicken cool before shredding it to retain its juices.

The mix of greens, from peppery arugula to mild romaine, not only adds color but also a range of textures. For a bit of heat, you can mix in some kale or add spinach for its nutritional benefits. Seasonal variations can also be fun—substitute leafy greens with roasted asparagus or added broccoli florets for a different chew and taste sensation.

Creating the Perfect Dressing

The dressing is where the magic happens in this salad, tying together the diverse ingredients with bright, zesty flavors. When making the dressing, whisk the olive oil vigorously with the citrus juices to emulsify it, creating a glossy finish that clings to the salad ingredients. If you prefer a thicker dressing, consider adding a dollop of Greek yogurt to achieve creaminess without the heaviness of mayonnaise.

Experiment with the citrus in the dressing. If you want a stronger tang, you can add a little more lemon juice or even lime for a sharper flavor profile. Conversely, if you find the dressing too tangy, a touch more honey can balance it out, ensuring that each bite is harmonious rather than overwhelming.

Ingredients

Salad Ingredients

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
4 cups mixed greens (like spinach, arugula, and romaine)
1 cup cucumber, sliced
1 cup mandarin oranges, drained
1/2 cup bell pepper, thinly sliced
1/4 cup scallions, chopped
2 tablespoons sesame seeds, toasted

Dressing Ingredients

1/4 cup olive oil
2 tablespoons soy sauce
Juice of 1 orange
Juice of 1 lemon
1 tablespoon sesame oil
1 tablespoon honey
1 teaspoon grated ginger
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Preparation

Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, soy sauce, orange juice, lemon juice, sesame oil, honey, grated ginger, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Set aside.

Prepare the Salad

In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, cucumber, mandarin oranges, bell pepper, scallions, and sesame seeds.

Combine Chicken and Dressing

Add the shredded chicken on top of the salad mixture and pour the dressing over everything. Toss gently to combine.

Serve

Divide the salad among plates or serve in a large bowl. Enjoy your refreshing sesame citrus chicken salad!

Pro Tips

For even more flavor, consider adding a handful of chopped cilantro or mint to the salad before serving. This brings a fresh herbaceous note that complements the citrus beautifully.

Make-Ahead Tips

This Sesame Citrus Chicken Salad is a fantastic make-ahead dish, perfect for meal prep! You can assemble the ingredients, except for the dressing, up to a day in advance. Keep the salad ingredients in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness. When you're ready to enjoy it, simply slice fresh cucumbers and add a sprinkle of sesame seeds just before serving for optimal crunch.

If you're short on time during the week, consider meal prepping the dressing too. Store it in a separate jar in the fridge for up to five days. This on-the-go option means you can have a nutritious meal ready in minutes—a true lifesaver on busy days!

Serving and Variations

This salad shines as a standalone dish for lunch, but it can also serve as a vibrant side dish at dinner parties or barbecues. To elevate the presentation, serve it in a large bowl with additional sesame seeds sprinkled on top, or individually in elegant salad dishes. Adding sliced avocado can introduce a creamy texture that complements the crunch of the greens.

Feel free to customize the salad based on your ingredient availability or dietary preferences. You can substitute the mandarin oranges for fresh grapefruit or pomegranate seeds for a tart twist. If you're looking for a vegetarian option, replace chicken with chickpeas or a medley of roasted vegetables for a hearty yet light dish bursting with flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use grilled chicken instead of cooked?

Yes! Grilled chicken adds a smoky flavor that pairs really well with the dressing.

→ Is there a way to make this salad vegetarian?

Absolutely! You can substitute the chicken with tofu or chickpeas for a hearty vegetarian option.

→ How long can I store leftovers?

This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but it can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat.

→ Can I prepare this salad in advance?

You can chop veggies and prepare the dressing ahead of time, but assemble the salad just before serving for the best texture.