Name: Sesame Chicken and Chickpea Salad Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or 3 cups shredded rotisserie chicken); Kosher salt and black pepper to taste; Extra-virgin olive oil for cooking; 2 to 3 cups shredded or finely chopped cabbage (red or green) (or coleslaw mix); 1 (15-oz.) can chickpeas, rinsed and drained; 1 cup matchstick (shredded) carrots; 1/2 cup finely chopped green onion (scallions); 1/2 cup roasted, salted cashews, roughly chopped; Toasted sesame seeds for garnish (optional); 1/3 cup toasted sesame oil; 1/3 cup rice vinegar; 2 Tbsp. honey; 1 Tbsp. minced fresh ginger; 1/2 tsp. kosher salt

Jump to Recipe· 4.1 from 83 reviews

If you’re craving a vibrant, protein-packed salad that brings together the nutty punch of sesame with tender chicken and hearty chickpeas, then this Sesame Chicken and Chickpea Salad Recipe is exactly what you need in your life. It’s a colorful medley of crisp cabbage, sweet carrots, savory green onions, and crunchy roasted cashews all tossed in a luscious sesame-ginger dressing. Whether you’re looking for a make-ahead lunch or a light but filling dinner, this recipe combines freshness, texture, and bold flavor in a way that feels both nourishing and exciting with every bite.

Ingredients You'll Need

A large wooden bowl filled with a colorful salad showing about five layers: the bottom layer is chopped purple cabbage with rough edges; above it, there are thin orange carrot sticks scattered evenly; next are whole beige chickpeas spread all over; then, small pieces of grilled chicken with a light golden brown outside are placed around; finally, chopped green onions and cashew nuts are sprinkled on top. A wooden spoon is partly inside the bowl on the right side. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface with a small wooden plate holding cashew nuts visible at the top right. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Simple ingredients can create extraordinary flavors, and this salad showcases that beautifully. Each element plays a vital role—fresh veggies add crunch and brightness, the chicken and chickpeas bring satisfying protein, while the sesame-ginger dressing ties every bite together with a fragrant, tangy finish.

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts (1 lb.): Choose fresh chicken or swap with shredded rotisserie chicken for a time-saving option.
Kosher salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning to enhance the natural flavors.
Extra-virgin olive oil: Adds a mild richness and helps in cooking the chicken to perfection.
Shredded cabbage (2 to 3 cups): Use red, green, or a coleslaw mix for a vibrant base and crisp texture.
One 15-oz. can chickpeas: Rinsed and drained, they introduce a creamy bite and great protein.
Matchstick carrots (1 cup): Bring a touch of sweetness and brilliant color.
Finely chopped green onion (½ cup): Adds a sharp, fresh contrast that lifts the entire salad.
Roasted, salted cashews (½ cup): Provide a delightful crunch and savory depth.
Toasted sesame seeds (optional): Sprinkle on top for extra nuttiness and a pretty garnish.
Sesame-ginger dressing ingredients: Toasted sesame oil (⅓ cup), rice vinegar (⅓ cup), honey (2 Tbsp.), minced fresh ginger (1 Tbsp.), and kosher salt (½ tsp.)—the magic sauce that brings it all together.

How to Make Sesame Chicken and Chickpea Salad Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by seasoning the chicken generously with kosher salt, black pepper, and a sprinkle of garlic powder if you like. A little drizzle of olive oil helps the chicken cook up golden and juicy. Sear it on medium heat for about 5 to 7 minutes per side until the internal temperature hits 165ºF. Let it rest; resting keeps the meat tender and juicy when sliced later.

Step 2: Whisk Together the Dressing

While the chicken rests, combine toasted sesame oil, rice vinegar, honey, minced fresh ginger, and kosher salt in a glass jar or measuring cup. Whisk well until the honey dissolves and the dressing emulsifies into a silky, flavorful blend.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad Base

In a large bowl, toss together chopped cabbage, rinsed chickpeas, matchstick carrots, green onions, and chopped roasted cashews. Season this fresh combo with a pinch of kosher salt to enhance all the natural flavors simmering beneath the surface.

Step 4: Combine and Dress

Slice the rested chicken into bite-sized pieces and add it to your vegetable and chickpea mixture. Pour the sesame-ginger dressing over everything and give it a thorough toss so every ingredient is kissed with that wonderful dressing. For an elegant finish and extra crunch, sprinkle toasted sesame seeds on top if you have them.

How to Serve Sesame Chicken and Chickpea Salad Recipe

A clear glass rectangular container holds a mixed salad with four main layers visible: the base layer is made of light beige chickpeas scattered throughout; on top are bright orange carrot strips and deep purple shredded cabbage pieces mixed with chopped green onions; sitting on these colorful vegetables are grilled chunks of pale chicken with golden-brown seared spots, distributed evenly; the whole salad is sprinkled with small tan sesame seeds and a few cashew nuts. The container is placed on a white marbled surface with part of a white dish filled with similar salad visible in the top right corner, as well as a small white bowl with a green patterned rim and some cashews in the bottom left corner. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To elevate your presentation and flavor, fresh herbs like cilantro or chopped parsley can add a pop of color and brightness. A wedge of lime on the side also works beautifully to brighten the dish further with a spritz of fresh acidity.

Side Dishes

This salad shines as a standalone meal because of its protein and hearty veggies, but if you want to stretch things out, pair it with some warm crusty bread, garlic naan, or a simple bowl of miso soup for a comforting touch.

Creative Ways to Present

For an impressive lunchbox option or picnic treat, serve this salad in mason jars layered with chicken at the bottom and delicate cabbage and dressing on top to keep it crisp until mealtime. You can also stuff it into pita pockets or wraps for hand-held convenience and extra excitement.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This Sesame Chicken and Chickpea Salad Recipe keeps well in the refrigerator for up to three days when stored in an airtight container. The flavors meld and deepen as it rests, making leftover salads even more delicious. Just enjoy chilled or bring it to room temperature by removing it 30 to 60 minutes before eating.

Freezing

Since this salad has fresh veggies and a delicate dressing, freezing is not recommended as it will alter the texture and flavor significantly. For best results, prepare fresh or enjoy leftovers refrigerated.

Reheating

If you prefer a warm salad experience, gently reheat just the chicken component separately in a skillet or microwave and then mix it back with the cold salad ingredients. This keeps the vegetables crisp and fresh while providing a warm protein contrast.

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Using shredded rotisserie chicken not only saves time but adds extra flavor from the seasoning already in the chicken, making this recipe even more convenient.

Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

Yes, it’s perfect for meal prep! Making the salad a couple of hours ahead helps the dressing soften the cabbage and blend flavors, resulting in a tastier meal when you’re ready to eat.

What else can I add to customize this salad?

Feel free to add sliced bell peppers, cucumber, or even a handful of fresh herbs like mint or basil for additional layers of flavor and freshness.

Can I substitute cashews with other nuts?

You can! Almonds, peanuts, or walnuts would all work nicely in this salad, adding their own distinct crunch and nutty flavor.

Is the sesame-ginger dressing spicy?

Not really—it has a gentle warmth from ginger but is more tangy, sweet, and nutty than spicy. If you like heat, you could add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha for a kick.

Final Thoughts

This Sesame Chicken and Chickpea Salad Recipe truly feels like a gift to your lunchtime routine: healthy, satisfying, and bursting with flavor. I encourage you to give it a try, especially if you love a salad with both crunch and hearty protein. It’s the kind of dish that keeps you energized and excited to eat well without spending hours in the kitchen. Trust me, once you make this, it will become a fast favorite!