Here’s a list of all the ingredients for a **honey sesame leftover rotisserie chicken salad**, formatted with SEO-friendly keywords to help your recipe stand out:
- **Leftover rotisserie chicken** (shredded or chopped)
- **Mixed greens** (e.g., spinach, arugula, or spring mix)
- **Sesame seeds** (toasted for extra flavor)
- **Honey** (for natural sweetness)
- **Soy sauce** (low-sodium for a savory umami flavor)
- **Rice vinegar** (adds a tangy kick)
- **Sesame oil** (for nutty aroma and depth)
- **Olive oil** (extra virgin for a healthy dressing base)
- **Garlic** (minced or grated for bold flavor)
- **Green onions** (thinly sliced for freshness)
- **Carrots** (shredded or julienned for crunch)
- **Red cabbage** (thinly sliced for color and texture)
- **Cucumber** (sliced or diced for a refreshing bite)
- **Mandarin oranges** (optional, for a sweet citrus twist)
- **Almonds** (sliced or slivered for crunch)
- **Cilantro** (chopped for a fresh, herby finish)
- **Salt and pepper** (to taste)
This **honey sesame chicken salad** is perfect for using up leftover rotisserie chicken, making it a quick, easy, and healthy meal option. The combination of sweet honey, nutty sesame, and fresh veggies creates a flavorful and satisfying dish.
Steps
# How to Make a Honey Sesame Leftover Rotisserie Chicken Salad
Transform your leftover rotisserie chicken into a delicious, flavorful **honey sesame chicken salad** with this easy recipe. Perfect for meal prep, lunches, or light dinners, this dish combines sweet, savory, and crunchy elements for a satisfying meal. Follow these detailed steps to create a restaurant-quality salad at home.
- 4 cups mixed greens (spinach, arugula, or romaine)
- 1/4 cup crispy chow mein noodles or wonton strips (for crunch)
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## **Step-by-Step Instructions**
### **1. Prepare the Honey Sesame Dressing**
In a small bowl, whisk together **honey**, **soy sauce**, **sesame oil**, **rice vinegar**, **grated ginger**, and **minced garlic**. Adjust the sweetness or saltiness to taste. Set aside.
### **2. Shred the Chicken**
Remove the skin from your leftover rotisserie chicken and shred the meat into bite-sized pieces. Aim for about 2 cups of shredded chicken.
### **3. Toast the Sesame Seeds**
In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the **sesame seeds** for 2-3 minutes until golden and fragrant. Stir frequently to prevent burning. Set aside to cool.
### **4. Assemble the Salad Base**
In a large mixing bowl, combine the **mixed greens**, **shredded carrots**, **sliced green onions**, and **chopped cilantro**. Toss lightly to mix.
### **5. Coat the Chicken**
Add the shredded chicken to the honey sesame dressing and toss until evenly coated. Sprinkle half of the toasted sesame seeds over the chicken and mix well.
### **6. Plate the Salad**
Divide the mixed greens among serving plates or bowls. Top with the honey sesame chicken mixture.
### **7. Add Crunch and Garnish**
Sprinkle the remaining toasted sesame seeds and **crispy chow mein noodles** or **wonton strips** over the salad for added texture.
### **8. Serve and Enjoy**
Serve immediately for the best flavor and crunch. Pair with a side of steamed rice or enjoy as a standalone dish.
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## **Tips for Success**
- **Meal Prep Friendly:** Store the dressing separately to keep the greens fresh. Assemble just before serving.
- **Customize:** Add avocado slices, mandarin oranges, or edamame for extra flavor and nutrition.
- **Dietary Adjustments:** Use tamari instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free option.
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This **honey sesame leftover rotisserie chicken salad** is a quick, healthy, and flavorful way to repurpose leftover chicken. With its perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Try it today and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home!