Sesame Noodle Salad with Grilled Chicken

Name: Sesame Noodle Salad with Grilled Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz linguine or spaghetti noodles; 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 2 cups shredded carrots; 1 cup sliced bell peppers; 1 cup snap peas; 2 green onions, chopped; 1/4 cup sesame seeds; 1/4 cup soy sauce; 2 tablespoons sesame oil; 1 tablespoon rice vinegar; 1 tablespoon honey; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Simple Speedy Plates

I absolutely love this Sesame Noodle Salad with Grilled Chicken! It's such a refreshing and satisfying dish that brings together the perfect blend of flavors and textures. The combination of tender grilled chicken and perfectly cooked noodles tossed in a savory sesame dressing is simply irresistible. Whether you're looking for a quick weeknight meal or a dish to impress guests, this salad checks all the boxes. Plus, it can easily be made ahead of time, making it ideal for busy days or meal prepping.

Created by

Ella

Last updated on 2026-02-07T20:22:27.892Z

When I first created this Sesame Noodle Salad, I was experimenting with flavors I loved. The nutty sesame oil paired with soy sauce creates a taste that is both comforting and exciting. I found that marinating the grilled chicken in garlic and ginger truly enhances its flavor, making every bite a delightful experience.

Another tip I discovered is the importance of using chilled noodles. This not only makes the salad more refreshing but also allows the dressing to cling to the noodles better, ensuring that each bite is packed with flavor. It’s a simple tweak that I highly recommend!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Nutty sesame flavor combined with juicy grilled chicken
Fresh vegetables add crunch and vibrant colors
Quick to prepare, perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep

Mastering the Noodles

Cooking the noodles just right is crucial for the texture of this salad. Aim for al dente—this allows the noodles to hold up against the dressing and not become mushy after tossing. Begin timing as soon as you add the noodles to your boiling salted water, and taste a noodle a minute before the package's suggested time; it should have a slight bite to it. Rinsing them under cold water after cooking halts the cooking process and helps maintain the perfect texture.

If you're gluten-free, you can substitute linguine or spaghetti with rice noodles or gluten-free pasta. Just keep in mind that different types of noodles may require different cooking times, so be sure to follow the package instructions closely. Rice noodles, for instance, typically soften much quicker, which can drastically change the preparation steps.

Grilling the Chicken

For the grilled chicken, evenly seasoning with salt and pepper, along with the garlic and ginger, enhances its flavor profile. I recommend letting the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes if time permits; this allows the flavors to penetrate the meat deeper. When grilling, look for nice grill marks and a golden-brown color, indicating that the chicken is cooked through—always use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

If you don't have access to a grill, you can achieve similar results using a grill pan on medium heat or even baking in the oven at 400°F for 20-25 minutes. For added convenience, store-bought rotisserie chicken can work well here too. Just ensure to chop it into bite-sized pieces for easy incorporation into the salad.

Dressing and Serving Tips

The sesame dressing is what ties this salad together, so make sure to mix ingredients well until the mixture is glossy. If you like a little heat, consider adding a teaspoon of chili paste or flakes to the dressing. For a nuttier flavor, lightly toast the sesame seeds in a dry skillet over medium heat until they are golden; this enhances their flavor and adds a delightful crunch.

To store leftovers, keep the dressing separate to avoid soggy noodles and vegetables. Store in airtight containers for up to three days in the fridge. You can also add any leftover grilled chicken or vegetables as a topping, making it a versatile meal for lunch the next day.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create a delicious Sesame Noodle Salad with Grilled Chicken:

For the Salad

8 oz linguine or spaghetti noodles
1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 cups shredded carrots
1 cup sliced bell peppers
1 cup snap peas
2 green onions, chopped
1/4 cup sesame seeds

For the Dressing

1/4 cup soy sauce
2 tablespoons sesame oil
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 tablespoon honey
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
Salt and pepper to taste

Once you have all your ingredients ready, you’re set to make this delightful salad!

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your Sesame Noodle Salad with Grilled Chicken:

Cook the Noodles

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the noodles according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and rinse under cold water to cool. Set aside.

Grill the Chicken

While the noodles are cooking, season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic, and ginger. Heat a grill or grill pan over medium heat and cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until cooked through. Remove and let rest before slicing.

Prepare the Dressing

In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, honey, garlic, ginger, salt, and pepper. Adjust to taste.

Assemble the Salad

In a large bowl, combine the cooked noodles, grilled chicken, shredded carrots, bell peppers, snap peas, and green onions. Drizzle the dressing over and toss everything together until combined. Sprinkle with sesame seeds before serving.

Enjoy your delicious and healthy Sesame Noodle Salad!

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize this salad with your favorite vegetables or add some crushed peanuts for extra crunch!

Variations to Explore

This recipe is highly adaptable. Feel free to substitute vegetables according to what's in season or in your fridge. For a pop of color, try adding purple cabbage or cucumbers. You could also include edamame for added protein and texture, which complements the other ingredients beautifully.

For a vegetarian version, replace the chicken with tofu or tempeh. Ensure that you marinate and grill or sauté them similarly to the chicken for maximum flavor. You can also add sliced avocado for creaminess, making it a richer dish without meat.

Meal Prep and Storage

Preparing this salad in advance is a fantastic way to save time throughout the week. You can make the dressing and cook the chicken ahead of time, storing them in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just assemble the salad with fresh noodles and veggies right before serving to keep everything crunchy and vibrant.

Consider portioning this salad into individual containers for a grab-and-go lunch option. This makes for an easy meal that retains its flavor and texture, especially since the flavors meld beautifully after a day in the fridge. Just remember to add the sesame seeds just before eating for that extra crunch.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?

Absolutely! Tofu, shrimp, or beef can also work wonderfully with this salad.

→ Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

Yes, you can prepare it ahead of time. Just keep the dressing separate until you're ready to serve to prevent the noodles from getting soggy.

→ How long will leftovers last in the fridge?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make this salad vegetarian?

Yes! Simply omit the chicken and add more veggies or use a plant-based protein.