Asian Sesame Chicken Salad (Print Version)

Fresh couscous salad with sesame-soy dressing, shredded chicken, cucumber, and herbs for a flavorful, easy meal.

# What You'll Need:

→ Couscous & Base

01 - 1 1/4 cups pearl couscous
02 - 2 cups water
03 - 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt

→ Protein

04 - 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken, skinless

→ Vegetables & Fresh Additions

05 - 1 large cucumber, diced or sliced into half-moons
06 - 1/2 cup shredded carrots
07 - 2 scallions, thinly sliced
08 - 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves, chopped
09 - 2 tablespoons fresh mint leaves, chopped

→ Sesame-Soy Dressing

10 - 3 tablespoons soy sauce
11 - 2 tablespoons toasted sesame oil
12 - 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
13 - 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
14 - 1 tablespoon lime juice
15 - 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
16 - 1 small garlic clove, minced
17 - 1 teaspoon Sriracha or Asian chili sauce

→ Garnish

18 - 2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds
19 - Lime wedges for serving

# How-To Steps:

01 - In a medium saucepan, bring water and salt to a boil. Add pearl couscous, reduce heat, and simmer uncovered for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until couscous is tender. Drain any excess water and let cool slightly.
02 - In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, honey, lime juice, ginger, garlic, and Sriracha until well combined.
03 - In a large bowl, combine cooked couscous, shredded chicken, cucumber, carrots, scallions, cilantro, and mint.
04 - Pour the sesame-soy dressing over the salad and toss well to coat evenly.
05 - Transfer to serving bowls. Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and serve with lime wedges on the side.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • Ready in just 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights
  • Versatile dish that works warm or chilled
  • Packed with fresh vegetables and herbs for bright flavors
  • The sesame-soy dressing delivers authentic Asian-inspired taste
  • Uses convenient rotisserie chicken to save time
02 -
  • Rinse the couscous under cold water after cooking to stop it from becoming sticky
  • For the most flavor, allow the dressed salad to sit for about 15 minutes before serving
  • Shred the rotisserie chicken while it's still slightly warm for easier handling
  • Adjust the dressing to your taste preferences - add more honey for sweetness or more Sriracha for heat
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator
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