Sesame Pasta Chicken Salad

Elevate your salad game with this vibrant Sesame Pasta Chicken Salad—a perfect fusion of bold Asian-inspired flavors and wholesome ingredients. Tender, golden-brown chicken breast is paired with al dente fusilli pasta and a medley of crisp vegetables, including julienned carrots and sliced red bell peppers, for a satisfying mix of textures. The crowning glory is the irresistible sesame dressing, made with nutty sesame oil, savory soy sauce, rice vinegar, and a touch of honey for balance. Finished with a sprinkle of sesame seeds and fresh cilantro, this dish is as visually stunning as it is delicious. Whether served immediately or chilled, this quick and easy salad transforms into a refreshing lunch, picnic favorite, or light dinner option. Perfect for meal prep or impressing at gatherings, this recipe is a must-try for fans of sesame chicken and pasta salads alike.

Nutriscore Rating: 74/100

Prep Time:20 mins

Cook Time:20 mins

Total Time:40 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 2 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breast
• 250 grams fusilli pasta
• 3 tablespoons sesame oil
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 2 pieces garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
• 1 large carrot, julienned
• 1 medium red bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 4 pieces scallions, chopped
• 2 tablespoons sesame seeds
• 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
• 4 cups cooked water
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 0.5 teaspoon black pepper

Directions

Step 1

Bring 4 cups of salted water to a boil in a large pot. Add the fusilli pasta and cook until al dente, according to package instructions (approximately 8-10 minutes). Drain and set aside to cool.

Step 2

While the pasta cooks, season the chicken breasts with salt and black pepper. Heat 1 tablespoon of sesame oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and golden brown. Remove from heat, allow to cool slightly, then slice into thin strips.

Step 3

In a small bowl, prepare the sesame dressing by whisking together the remaining 2 tablespoons of sesame oil, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, minced garlic, and grated ginger until well combined.

Step 4

In a large salad bowl, combine the cooked and cooled pasta, chicken strips, julienned carrot, sliced red bell pepper, and chopped scallions.

Step 5

Pour the sesame dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly.

Step 6

Garnish the salad with sesame seeds and freshly chopped cilantro.

Step 7

Serve immediately, or refrigerate for 20 minutes if you prefer the salad chilled. Enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(2012.9g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	2123.9

Total Fat 69.4g	0%
Saturated Fat 11.8g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 21.7g
Cholesterol 295.8mg	0%
Sodium 4432.5mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 225.3g	0%
Dietary Fiber 17.5g	0%
Total Sugars 33.8g
Protein 149.6g	0%

Vitamin D 17.4IU	0%
Calcium 235.6mg	0%
Iron 10.3mg	0%
Potassium 2263.4mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 29.4%

Protein: 28.2%

Carbs: 42.4%