Ina Garten Chinese Chicken Salad

This Ina Garten Chinese Chicken Salad is a flavorful and refreshing recipe, which includes juicy roasted chicken and crisp asparagus. It’s a classic, foolproof recipe, ready in about 55 minutes.

Ina Garten Chinese Chicken Salad Ingredients

• 4 split chicken breasts (bone-in, skin-on)
• 2 tablespoons good olive oil
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1/2 pound asparagus, ends removed, cut in thirds diagonally
• 1 red bell pepper, cored, seeded, and sliced into strips
• 2 scallions (white and green parts), sliced diagonally
• 1 tablespoon white sesame seeds, toasted

For The Dressing:

• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 1/4 cup good apple cider vinegar
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 1/2 tablespoons dark sesame oil
• 1/2 tablespoon honey
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon peeled, grated fresh ginger
• 1/2 tablespoon sesame seeds, toasted
• 1/4 cup smooth peanut butter
• 2 teaspoons kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

How To Make Ina Garten Chinese Chicken Salad

1. Prep the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Roast the chicken: Place chicken breasts on a baking sheet. Rub with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Roast for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
3. Cool and shred chicken: Let the chicken cool slightly, then remove the skin and bones. Shred into bite-sized pieces.
4. Blanch the asparagus: Boil salted water in a pot. Add asparagus and cook for 3 to 5 minutes until tender-crisp. Transfer to ice water to stop cooking.
5. Mix vegetables and chicken: Drain asparagus well. Combine with shredded chicken and bell pepper slices in a large bowl.
6. Make the dressing: Whisk together all dressing ingredients until smooth and fully combined.
7. Toss the salad: Pour dressing over chicken and vegetables. Toss to coat evenly.
8. Garnish and serve: Top with scallions and toasted sesame seeds. Serve cold or at room temperature.

Recipe Tips

• How to keep chicken moist: Roast until the chicken reaches exactly 165°F to avoid drying it out.
• Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken? Yes, it’s a great shortcut—just skip the roasting step and shred the meat.
• How to toast sesame seeds: Heat them in a dry skillet over medium heat until golden and fragrant, about 2–3 minutes.
• Can I prep this salad ahead of time? Yes, store it in the fridge and toss with dressing just before serving.
• What if I don’t have apple cider vinegar? You can substitute with rice vinegar or white wine vinegar.

What To Serve With Chinese Chicken Salad

This salad is a complete meal on its own, but pairs well with:

• Steamed jasmine rice
• Crispy wonton chips
• Miso soup
• Cucumber salad
• Cold soba noodles

How To Store Chinese Chicken Salad

Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keep the dressing separate if storing before serving.

Freeze: Not recommended, as the vegetables and dressing don’t freeze well.

Chinese Chicken Salad Nutrition Facts

• Calories: 278 kcal
• Protein: 25g
• Fat: 18g
• Carbohydrates: 7g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 720mg

Nutrition information is estimated and may vary based on ingredients and cooking methods used.

FAQs

Can I use boneless chicken breasts instead of bone-in?
Yes, but bone-in chicken adds more flavor and moisture. Adjust cooking time if using boneless.

Why is my chicken salad dry?
It’s likely overcooked. Make sure to roast only until 165°F and use enough dressing.

Can I skip the peanut butter in the dressing?
You can leave it out or substitute with tahini or almond butter for a different flavor.

What vegetables can I swap in?
Snap peas, shredded cabbage, or carrots work well in place of asparagus or bell pepper.

Try More Recipes:

• Ina Garten Cherry Clafoutis
• Ina Garten Chocolate Chunk Blondies
• Barefoot Contessa Onion Rings