Description
This Asian Chicken Pasta Salad is a refreshing, flavor-packed dish that’s perfect for cookouts, picnics, or meal prep. With tender chicken, bow tie pasta, matchstick carrots, and a homemade toasted sesame dressing, it’s a healthy and satisfying salad that gets even better after chilling in the fridge. Quick to make, customizable with your favorite extras, and full of protein and veggies, it’s a family favorite that’s sure to impress!
Ingredients
For the Salad:
12 oz bow tie pasta (or gluten-free, whole grain pasta)
2 cups cooked skinless, boneless chicken breast (or rotisserie chicken)
1 cup matchstick carrots (chopped)
¾ cup cilantro (chopped)
3 green onions (thinly sliced)
1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds
¼ cup slivered almonds (optional)
For the Dressing:
¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce
¼ cup vegetable or olive oil
2 tbsp brown sugar (or zero-point brown sugar sweetener)
3 tbsp rice vinegar
1 tbsp sesame oil
¼ tsp dried ginger
2 tsp toasted sesame seeds
Instructions
-
Cook the Pasta:
Cook the bow tie pasta according to package directions, then drain and rinse with cold water to cool. -
Prepare the Salad:
While the pasta cools, chop the chicken, carrots, cilantro, and green onions. Place the cooled pasta, chicken, carrots, cilantro, and green onions in a large bowl. -
Make the Dressing:
In a jar, combine soy sauce, oil, brown sugar, rice vinegar, sesame oil, ginger, and toasted sesame seeds. Shake well until combined. -
Combine and Chill:
Pour half of the dressing over the pasta mixture, tossing to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least two hours to allow the flavors to meld. -
Serve:
Just before serving, stir in the remaining dressing and garnish with slivered almonds if using.
Notes
Add Protein: Top with grilled shrimp or tofu for extra protein.
Extra Veggies: Add mandarin oranges, edamame, or bell peppers for extra flavor and texture.
Make It Spicy: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha to the dressing for some heat.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad, Pasta Salad, Summer Recipes
- Method: No-Cook, Tossing
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
