Teriyaki Chicken Salad

This Teriyaki Chicken Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish perfect for a light, yet flavorful meal. It features juicy, marinated chicken breasts grilled to perfection and tossed with a mix of fresh greens, crunchy vegetables, and a sweet yet tangy homemade teriyaki dressing. The combination of warm chicken and crisp veggies creates a delightful texture contrast, while the teriyaki adds a rich umami flavor. Topped with sesame seeds and fresh cilantro, this salad is not only delicious but also a healthy option for lunch or dinner.

Ingredients:

For the chicken:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1/3 cup soy sauce
• 2 tbsp honey
• 2 tbsp rice vinegar
• 2 tbsp sesame oil
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated

For the salad:

• 4 cups mixed salad greens (spinach, arugula, romaine)
• 1 cup shredded carrots
• 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 cucumber, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
• 1/4 cup cilantro leaves, chopped
• 2 tbsp sesame seeds
• 1/4 cup sliced almonds (optional)

For the dressing:

• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated
• Juice of 1 lime

Instructions:

1. Marinate the chicken: In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger. Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish, pour the marinade over them, and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for more flavor.
2. Grill the chicken: Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and grill for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked through. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes, then slice it into thin strips.
3. Prepare the salad: In a large salad bowl, combine the mixed greens, shredded carrots, bell pepper, cucumber, green onions, cilantro, and sliced almonds (if using).
4. Make the dressing: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, olive oil, garlic, ginger, and lime juice until well combined.
5. Assemble the salad: Add the sliced chicken on top of the salad. Drizzle with the teriyaki dressing and sprinkle with sesame seeds. Toss the salad gently to combine all the ingredients.
6. Serve: Serve immediately for the freshest taste and enjoy your flavorful Teriyaki Chicken Salad!