Description
A delicious fusion pasta salad combining tender teriyaki chicken, bowtie pasta, crunchy vegetables, and a sweet-savory sesame teriyaki dressing. This refreshing dish is perfect for lunch, meal prep, picnics, or a light dinner, offering a balanced mix of protein, vibrant veggies, and flavorful sauce.
Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- 350 g bowtie pasta
- 450 g boneless, skinless chicken breast, diced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1/2 cucumber, diced
- 1/4 cup green onions, sliced
- 2 tbsp sesame seeds
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
Dressing Ingredients
- 1/3 cup teriyaki sauce
- 2 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tsp fresh lime juice
- 1 tsp grated fresh ginger
- 1 garlic clove, minced
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Cook the bowtie pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and set aside to cool.
- Cook Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add diced chicken and cook for 6–8 minutes until browned and cooked through. Add 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce to the chicken and cook for another 2 minutes, ensuring the chicken is well-coated and flavorful.
- Prepare Vegetables: Blanch the broccoli florets by boiling them for 2–3 minutes, then immediately rinse with cold water to maintain crispness and color.
- Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, cooked teriyaki chicken, blanched broccoli, diced red bell pepper, shredded carrots, diced cucumber, sliced green onions, and chopped cilantro.
- Make Dressing: Whisk together the teriyaki sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, honey, fresh lime juice, grated fresh ginger, and minced garlic until combined and smooth.
- Toss Salad: Pour the dressing over the combined salad ingredients and toss gently to ensure everything is evenly coated.
- Garnish and Chill: Sprinkle the salad with sesame seeds and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
Notes
- Add pineapple chunks or mandarin oranges for a sweeter version that brings a vibrant twist.
- Use rotisserie chicken as a shortcut to reduce cooking time while maintaining flavor.
- Keep the salad refrigerated and consume within 3 days to ensure freshness and food safety.
- Include edamame for added protein and fiber, enhancing the nutritional profile.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian-inspired
