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Asian Sesame Chicken Salad

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Asian Sesame Chicken Salad is a Panera-inspired copycat featuring juicy chicken, toasted almonds, wonton strips, and crisp romaine, all tossed in a tangy, sweet sesame dressing. Versatile for gluten-free or vegetarian adaptations.

  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb chicken breasts or tenders
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons seasoned rice vinegar
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • Oil for cooking
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 1/3 cup seasoned rice vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 3 tablespoons sesame oil
  • 2 teaspoons soy sauce
  • 1/2 teaspoon grated ginger (optional)
  • Pinch salt to taste
  • 3/4 cup toasted sliced almonds
  • 1 cup wonton strips
  • 2 romaine hearts, chopped
  • Toasted sesame seeds
  • Finely chopped cilantro

Instructions

  1. Marinate chicken with soy sauce, brown sugar, and rice vinegar for at least 2 hours (optional).
  2. In a jar, combine dressing ingredients, shake until well mixed, season with salt.
  3. Cook chicken in a pan with oil until browned and 165°F internally; chop into bite-sized pieces.
  4. In a large bowl, toss romaine, almonds, wonton strips, sesame seeds, cilantro, and chicken.
  5. Add dressing, toss to combine, and serve immediately.

Notes

  • If not marinating chicken, season with salt and pepper before cooking.
  • For gluten-free, use tamari and omit wonton strips.
  • See variations for make-ahead options.
  • Author: lily
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Salad
  • Method: Stovetop and Tossed Salad
  • Cuisine: Asian