Asian Sesame Chicken Pasta Salad

Asian Sesame Chicken Pasta Salad is a colorful, flavor-packed dish that combines tender chicken, pasta, crisp vegetables, and protein-rich edamame with a savory sesame dressing. Inspired by classic Asian flavors, this refreshing pasta salad is perfect for meal prep, potlucks, summer lunches, and easy weeknight dinners. The combination of sesame, soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and fresh vegetables creates a delicious balance of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors in every bite.

Asian Sesame Chicken Pasta Salad

Asian Sesame Chicken Pasta Salad combines chicken, pasta, vegetables, edamame, and a flavorful homemade sesame dressing.

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Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 10 minutes mins

Chill Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr

Servings: 8

Calories: 410

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• For the Salad
• 12 oz rotini pasta
• 2 cups cooked chicken breast sliced or shredded
• 1 cup shelled edamame
• 1 red bell pepper thinly sliced
• 1 cup shredded purple cabbage
• 1 cup shredded carrots
• 4 green onions sliced
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
• For the Sesame Dressing
• 1/4 cup sesame oil
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 teaspoon fresh ginger grated
• 2 cloves garlic minced
• 1 teaspoon sriracha optional
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Method

 

1. Cook the rotini pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse thoroughly under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool the pasta. Set aside until completely cooled.
2. If using frozen edamame, cook according to package directions, then drain and allow it to cool. Slice the bell pepper, shred the cabbage and carrots, and chop the green onions.
3. In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the sesame oil, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, grated ginger, garlic, sriracha, salt, and black pepper until smooth and fully combined.
4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, cooked chicken, edamame, bell pepper, cabbage, carrots, and green onions. Toss gently to distribute the ingredients evenly.
5. Pour the sesame dressing over the salad and mix thoroughly until all the pasta and vegetables are coated. Make sure the dressing reaches every part of the salad for maximum flavor.
6. Sprinkle in the sesame seeds and toss once more to incorporate them throughout the salad.
7. Cover and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving. Chilling helps the flavors blend together and creates a more refreshing salad.
8. Before serving, stir the salad gently and garnish with additional sesame seeds and green onions if desired.

Notes

• Rotini works particularly well because the twists hold onto the sesame dressing, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor. However, bowtie, penne, or fusilli can also be used successfully.
• For the best texture, avoid overcooking the pasta. Al dente pasta remains firm after chilling and prevents the salad from becoming soft.
• Fresh ginger and garlic provide the brightest flavor, but powdered versions may be substituted if necessary.
• This salad can be adjusted to your preferred spice level by increasing or decreasing the amount of sriracha.

Variations

• Add mandarin oranges for a sweet citrus flavor.
• Substitute shrimp for the chicken.
• Add sliced cucumbers for extra crunch.
• Include chopped peanuts or cashews for texture.
• Use whole wheat pasta for additional fiber.
• Add avocado just before serving.
• Mix in fresh cilantro for extra flavor.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve this pasta salad as a complete lunch or light dinner. The combination of chicken, pasta, and vegetables makes it satisfying enough to stand on its own.
• It pairs beautifully with grilled chicken skewers, teriyaki dishes, egg rolls, or Asian-inspired appetizers.
• This recipe is ideal for meal prep because it stays fresh and flavorful for several days in the refrigerator.
• It’s also a popular option for picnics, potlucks, and summer gatherings since it can be served cold.

Tips

• Cool the pasta completely before adding the dressing.
• Use freshly grated ginger whenever possible.
• Toast sesame seeds for extra flavor.
• Chill the salad before serving for the best taste.
• Taste and adjust seasoning before serving.
• Reserve some green onions and sesame seeds for garnish.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container.

Prep Time / Cook Time / Chill Time / Total Time

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Chill Time: 30 minutes

Total Time: 1 hour

Servings

Serves: 8 people

Nutritional Info (Approx.)

Calories: 410 per serving

Protein: 24g

Carbohydrates: 35g

Fat: 19g

Fiber: 4g

Sugar: 6g

FAQs

Can I make Asian Sesame Chicken Pasta Salad ahead of time?

Yes, this recipe is excellent for making ahead. In fact, many people find that it tastes even better after several hours in the refrigerator because the pasta absorbs some of the dressing and the flavors have time to blend together. You can prepare it up to a day in advance and keep it chilled until ready to serve.

Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Absolutely. Rotisserie chicken is a convenient shortcut that works wonderfully in this recipe. It adds plenty of flavor and saves preparation time. Simply remove the skin, shred or chop the chicken, and mix it into the salad.

What can I use instead of edamame?

If you don’t have edamame, green peas, snap peas, or even chickpeas can be used instead. While the flavor will be slightly different, these alternatives still provide texture and protein that work well with the sesame dressing.

How long will this pasta salad last in the refrigerator?

When stored in an airtight container, Asian Sesame Chicken Pasta Salad will remain fresh for up to 4 days. The vegetables may soften slightly over time, but the overall flavor remains delicious. Stir before serving and add a splash of dressing if needed.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes. Simply use your favorite gluten-free pasta and replace the regular soy sauce with gluten-free tamari or a certified gluten-free soy sauce alternative. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

Conclusion

Asian Sesame Chicken Pasta Salad is a refreshing, protein-packed dish filled with tender chicken, colorful vegetables, and a flavorful sesame dressing. Easy to prepare and perfect for meal prep, potlucks, or family dinners, this versatile pasta salad delivers bold Asian-inspired flavors in every bite.