Sesame Noodle Salad with Grilled Chicken

Name: Sesame Noodle Salad with Grilled Chicken
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz whole wheat noodles; 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 cup bell peppers, sliced; 1 cup carrots, julienned; 1/2 cup green onions, chopped; 1 cup snap peas, trimmed; 3 tbsp sesame oil; 2 tbsp soy sauce; 1 tbsp rice vinegar; 1 tbsp honey; 1 tsp ginger, minced; 1 tsp garlic, minced; Sesame seeds for garnish

Highlighted under: Fresh & Light

I absolutely love making this Sesame Noodle Salad with Grilled Chicken when the weather warms up. The combination of tender chicken, colorful veggies, and nutty sesame dressing creates a delightful meal that feels both satisfying and refreshing. It’s perfect for picnics or light dinners, and it comes together quickly. I find that marinating the chicken a bit longer enhances the flavor beautifully. This dish is a real crowd-pleaser that also packs well for lunches, making it a versatile addition to my recipe repertoire.

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-02-07T22:37:28.453Z

When I first tried creating a sesame noodle salad, I knew I wanted to incorporate grilled chicken for substance. After tweaking the sauce until perfect, I combined it with a fresh array of vegetables and perfectly cooked noodles. The smoky flavor from the grilled chicken pairs exceptionally well with the sesame oil.

During my early attempts, I learned that letting the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes brings out its flavor more. I also found that using whole grain noodles adds an extra hearty texture that balances the silky dressing beautifully.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Fresh, vibrant flavors that come together in harmony
Grilled chicken adds a delicious depth to the dish
Perfect as a meal prep option for busy weeks

Marinating the Chicken for Maximum Flavor

Marinating the chicken in the sesame oil and soy sauce mixture allows the meat to soak up the rich, nutty flavors that are characteristic of this dish. A longer marination time, ideally 1-2 hours or even overnight, can significantly enhance the taste, penetrative flavors, and juiciness of the chicken. If you're short on time, a minimum of 30 minutes still provides decent flavor. Remember to turn the chicken occasionally for even coating.

For those seeking a lighter option, feel free to swap out the chicken breasts for tofu or tempeh. Marinate these alternatives in the same dressing to ensure they absorb the flavors just as well. Just remember that cooking times will vary; grilled tofu cubes typically require about 4-5 minutes per side.

Perfecting the Noodles

Cooking the whole wheat noodles perfectly is crucial for the texture of your salad. Undercook them slightly for the best results, aiming for al dente, which should take about 6-8 minutes, depending on the brand. This prevents them from becoming mushy when tossed with the sauce. Rinsing them under cold water after draining stops the cooking process, ensuring they maintain their bite and do not stick together.

Feel free to substitute whole wheat noodles with gluten-free alternatives such as rice noodles or quinoa pasta if you have dietary restrictions. Keep in mind that cooking times can vary, so always refer to the package instructions.

Storage and Meal Prep Tips

This Sesame Noodle Salad is not only delicious fresh but also makes an excellent meal prep option. To store, keep the chicken and salad components separate until you’re ready to serve. This prevents the noodles from becoming soggy. The salad can last in the refrigerator for up to three days. I recommend storing the dressing in an airtight container to keep it fresh; it can last up to a week and can be used with other salads as well.

If you prefer to freeze this salad, consider keeping the noodles and veggies aside and only freeze the grilled chicken. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. To reheat the chicken, a quick stint in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes or a few minutes on the grill will ensure a warm, satisfying dish without losing moisture.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this delicious dish:

For the Salad

8 oz whole wheat noodles
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup bell peppers, sliced
1 cup carrots, julienned
1/2 cup green onions, chopped
1 cup snap peas, trimmed

For the Dressing

3 tbsp sesame oil
2 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp rice vinegar
1 tbsp honey
1 tsp ginger, minced
1 tsp garlic, minced
Sesame seeds for garnish

Once you have all the ingredients laid out, you’re ready to begin cooking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your salad:

Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, whisk together sesame oil, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, ginger, and garlic. Add chicken breasts and coat well. Cover and marinate for at least 30 minutes.

Cook the Noodles

Cook whole wheat noodles according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.

Grill the Chicken

Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Grill the marinated chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side or until cooked through. Remove and let rest for a few minutes before slicing.

Combine the Salad

In a large bowl, combine the cooked noodles, sliced bell peppers, carrots, green onions, and snap peas. Drizzle with remaining dressing and toss to coat.

Serve

Top the salad with sliced grilled chicken and sprinkle sesame seeds on top. Enjoy your refreshing meal!

Your delicious sesame noodle salad is now ready to be enjoyed!

Pro Tips

For extra crunch, you can add toasted peanuts or chopped almonds as a topping. Also, feel free to use any seasonal vegetables you have on hand for a personal twist on this recipe.

Variations to Try

For a bit of heat, consider adding sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of sriracha to the dressing. This can elevate the flavor profile and add a spicy kick that complements the nuttiness of the sesame oil. If you're a fan of crunch, try adding toasted almonds or cashews as a garnish to give the salad an extra layer of texture.

Another fun variation involves seasonal vegetables. Use whatever is fresh and available, such as zucchini, cucumber, or radishes, which can add a variety of colors and further enhance the freshness of the dish. Swap the bell peppers for a medley of different colors for a visually stunning presentation.

Serving Suggestions

This salad can be served on its own or paired with other dishes for a more substantial meal. Consider serving it alongside grilled shrimp or a light miso soup for a complete Asian-inspired dinner. Adding a side of edamame also complements the meal beautifully and provides extra protein.

If you're serving at a picnic or potluck, try presenting the salad in individual mason jars. Layer the ingredients starting from the dressing at the bottom, followed by noodles, veggies, and grilled chicken on top. This not only keeps everything fresh but also looks visually appealing.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your chicken isn't grilling evenly, ensure that your grill is preheated properly to medium-high heat before placing the chicken on it. A well-heated grill will sear the meat, locking in juices and preventing sticking. Additionally, avoid moving the chicken too much; let it develop a nice char for better flavor.

For those who find that the noodles clump together, try adding a splash of sesame oil or a bit of cold water after rinsing them. This will help separate them while adding additional flavor, making them easier to toss into the salad without becoming a solid mass.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use another type of protein?

Absolutely! Tofu or shrimp would work wonderfully in this salad.

→ How long can I store the leftovers?

You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, you can use gluten-free noodles and tamari instead of soy sauce.

→ Can I make the dressing in advance?

Yes! The dressing can be made and stored in the fridge for up to a week.