Asian Chicken Salad I

Asian Chicken Salad Recipe | Brown Sugar, Soy Sauce, Sesame Oil, and Rice Noodles

Region / culture: Asia, China | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 10 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Asian Chicken Salad I is a delightful and refreshing dish that combines the savory flavors of chicken with the crispness of fresh vegetables and the tangy zest of a homemade dressing. This salad is perfect for those who enjoy a meal that is both nutritious and full of flavor. It's a versatile dish that can be served as a light lunch, a side dish, or even as a main course for dinner. The combination of ingredients not only makes this salad a visual treat but also a culinary delight that is sure to impress.

History

The concept of chicken salad has its roots in various cuisines around the world, but the Asian Chicken Salad, as we know it today, is a relatively modern creation that emerged from the fusion of Eastern and Western culinary traditions. It became popular in the United States in the late 20th century, particularly in California, where chefs began experimenting with incorporating Asian ingredients and flavors into traditional American dishes. This recipe is a testament to the successful blending of these culinary worlds, offering a unique taste that is both familiar and exotic.

Ingredients

2 tbsp brown sugar
2 tsp soy sauce
1 tbsp sesame oil (optional)
0.25 cup vegetable oil
3 tbsp rice vinegar
1 (8 oz (227 g)) package dried rice noodles
1 head iceberg lettuce - rinsed, dried, and chopped
4 boneless chicken breast halves, cooked and shredded
3 green onions, chopped
1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds

How to prepare

Add 2 tbsp of oil to a hot skillet. Add noodles and cook for 3-5 minutes.
Combine the lettuce, chicken, onions, and sesame seeds. Let it cool for approximately 15 minutes.
Pour the dressing (prepared by mixing brown sugar, soy sauce, sesame oil, salad oil, and rice vinegar) just before serving.

Variations

For a vegetarian version, replace the chicken with tofu or tempeh.
Add mandarin oranges or sliced almonds for an extra layer of flavor and texture.
Use different types of lettuce or add other vegetables like shredded carrots or bell peppers for more variety.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure your Asian Chicken Salad turns out perfectly, consider the following tips:

- Use freshly cooked chicken for the best flavor and texture. Grilled or poached chicken breast works well.

- For a crunchier texture, add the dressing just before serving to prevent the lettuce and noodles from becoming soggy.

- Toasting the sesame seeds before adding them to the salad enhances their nutty flavor.

- If you prefer a spicier salad, consider adding a dash of chili flakes or a bit of finely chopped fresh chili to the dressing.

Serving Suggestions

This salad is best served chilled or at room temperature. It can be enjoyed on its own or accompanied by a light soup or a piece of crusty bread for a more filling meal.

Cooking Techniques

The key techniques involved in making this salad include cooking and shredding the chicken, preparing the dressing, and combining all the ingredients. For best results, ensure the chicken is cooked thoroughly but remains moist, and whisk the dressing ingredients well to create a smooth, emulsified mixture.

Ingredient Substitutions

If rice vinegar is unavailable, apple cider vinegar makes a good substitute.

- Tamari can be used instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free option.

- Maple syrup or honey can replace brown sugar for a different sweetness profile.

Make Ahead Tips

The chicken can be cooked and shredded up to two days in advance and stored in the refrigerator. The dressing can also be prepared ahead of time and kept refrigerated until ready to use. Assemble the salad just before serving to maintain freshness and crunch.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the salad in a large, shallow bowl to showcase the colorful ingredients. Garnish with extra sesame seeds and green onions for an appealing finish. Consider serving the dressing on the side for guests to add to their liking.

Pairing Recommendations

This salad pairs well with white wines such as Sauvignon Blanc or a light Pinot Grigio, which complement the fresh flavors without overpowering them. For a non-alcoholic option, consider a chilled green tea or a sparkling water with a squeeze of lime.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

This salad is best enjoyed fresh and does not reheat well due to the presence of lettuce and other fresh vegetables. However, leftover chicken and dressing can be stored separately in the refrigerator for up to two days.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A serving of Asian Chicken Salad contains approximately 250-300 calories, making it a light yet satisfying option that fits well into a balanced diet.

Carbohydrates

This salad is relatively low in carbohydrates, with the primary sources being the brown sugar in the dressing and the rice noodles. A serving of this salad contains approximately 20-30 grams of carbohydrates, making it a suitable option for those monitoring their carbohydrate intake.

Fats

The fats in this salad come from the vegetable oil, sesame oil, and the natural fats found in the chicken. The use of oils in the dressing contributes to the overall fat content, which is moderate and primarily consists of healthier unsaturated fats. A serving of this salad contains about 10-15 grams of fat.

Proteins

Chicken is an excellent source of high-quality protein, making this salad a great option for those looking to increase their protein intake. A serving of Asian Chicken Salad provides approximately 25-30 grams of protein, which contributes to muscle repair and growth.

Vitamins and minerals

This salad is rich in vitamins and minerals, thanks to the variety of ingredients used. The vegetables provide vitamins A and C, essential for immune function and skin health, while the chicken offers B vitamins, important for energy metabolism. The sesame seeds add a boost of calcium and magnesium.

Alergens

Common allergens in this recipe include soy (from the soy sauce) and sesame. Those with allergies to these ingredients should modify the recipe accordingly or avoid it.

Summary

Overall, Asian Chicken Salad is a nutritious dish that offers a good balance of proteins, healthy fats, and vitamins. It's relatively low in carbohydrates and calories, making it a great choice for those looking to enjoy a flavorful meal without overindulging.

Summary

Asian Chicken Salad I is a vibrant and flavorful dish that combines the best of fresh ingredients with a tangy, homemade dressing. It's a nutritious option that's easy to prepare and can be customized to suit various dietary needs and preferences. Whether you're looking for a light lunch or a healthy dinner option, this salad is sure to satisfy.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I knew it was something I had to try. It was a hot summer day, and I was browsing through a magazine at the hair salon while waiting for my appointment. As soon as I came across the picture of the Asian Chicken Salad, my mouth started watering. The vibrant colors of the shredded chicken, crunchy vegetables, and tangy dressing looked absolutely delicious.

I quickly tore out the page and tucked it into my purse, eager to make it for my family. When I got home, I immediately went to work gathering the ingredients. The recipe called for cooked chicken breast, cabbage, carrots, green onions, cilantro, and a homemade soy-sesame vinaigrette. I had most of the ingredients on hand, but I needed to make a trip to the grocery store for the fresh produce.

As I chopped and shredded the vegetables, the aroma of the cilantro and green onions filled my kitchen. I marinated the chicken in a mixture of soy sauce, sesame oil, and ginger before grilling it to perfection. Once everything was assembled, I tossed it all together with the vinaigrette and took a taste. The flavors exploded in my mouth – the sweet and savory dressing paired perfectly with the crisp vegetables and tender chicken.

I couldn't wait to share this dish with my family. As we sat down to dinner that evening, everyone's eyes lit up as I brought out the Asian Chicken Salad. It was a hit! My husband went back for seconds, and even my picky eater of a grandson asked for more. I knew right then and there that this recipe would become a staple in our household.

Over the years, I've made this Asian Chicken Salad countless times, tweaking the recipe here and there to suit my family's tastes. Sometimes I add crushed peanuts for extra crunch, or a squeeze of lime juice for a burst of acidity. Each time I make it, I remember that first time I saw the recipe in the magazine, and how it sparked a love for Asian-inspired dishes in me.

As I continued to refine my recipe for Asian Chicken Salad, I started to experiment with other Asian flavors and ingredients. I began incorporating more traditional ingredients like soy sauce, ginger, and garlic into my cooking, and sought out new recipes to try. I even took a cooking class at a local community center to learn more about Asian cuisine.

One day, while visiting a friend who had recently traveled to Thailand, I was introduced to a new ingredient that would change the way I cooked forever – fish sauce. My friend had brought back a bottle of high-quality fish sauce from her trip, and she insisted that I try it in my Asian dishes. I was hesitant at first, as the pungent aroma was unlike anything I had cooked with before. But as soon as I added a splash to my stir-fry, I knew I had found my secret ingredient.

The fish sauce added a depth of flavor to my dishes that I had never experienced before. It enhanced the umami of the soy sauce, balanced the sweetness of the sugar, and brought a richness to my Asian Chicken Salad that was unparalleled. I couldn't believe how such a simple ingredient could make such a big impact on my cooking.

Since that day, fish sauce has become a staple in my pantry, and I use it in almost every Asian-inspired dish that I make. It has become my secret weapon, elevating my recipes to new heights and impressing friends and family alike. I've even started sharing my love for fish sauce with others, encouraging them to give it a try in their own cooking.

As I reflect on my journey with Asian cuisine, I am grateful for the recipe that started it all – the Asian Chicken Salad. It opened my eyes to a whole new world of flavors and ingredients, and inspired me to continue exploring and experimenting in the kitchen. I am constantly on the lookout for new recipes to try, new techniques to master, and new ingredients to incorporate into my cooking.

I may have learned how to make the Asian Chicken Salad from a magazine, but the real magic happened in my kitchen, as I poured my heart and soul into perfecting the dish. It has become a symbol of my love for cooking and my passion for creating delicious meals for my loved ones. And for that, I am forever grateful.