Delicious Asian Chicken and Pasta Salad Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Asian Chicken and Pasta Salad is:

• Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights.
• Packed with Nutrients: Loaded with lean protein, fresh fruits, and greens.
• Customizable: Adjust the ingredients to suit your preferences.
• Crowd-Pleasing: A guaranteed hit at picnics, potlucks, and gatherings.

Ingredients

For the Dressing:

• 1/4 cup reduced-sodium chicken broth
• 3 tablespoons reduced-sodium soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce (adds rich sweetness)
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 2 teaspoons toasted sesame oil (for a nutty aroma)
• 3-4 garlic cloves, minced (adds depth of flavor)
• 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated (zesty kick)
• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• 1/8 teaspoon black pepper

For the Salad:

• 12 ounces boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 4 ounces angel hair pasta (thin, delicate texture)
• 3 medium nectarines or peaches, sliced
• 2 cups baby bok choy, shredded (crunchy and nutrient-dense)
• 2 green onions, thinly sliced (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Prepare the Dressing

• In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, soy sauce, hoisin sauce, sugar, sesame oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, red pepper flakes, and black pepper.
• Whisk until smooth and well-combined. Set aside to let the flavors meld.

2. Cook the Chicken

• Place the chicken breasts in a pot of simmering water. Cover and poach for 12-15 minutes, or until fully cooked (internal temperature reaches 165°F/74°C).
• Remove the chicken, let it cool, and cut it into bite-sized pieces.

3. Prepare the Pasta

• Cook the angel hair pasta according to the package instructions (usually 3-5 minutes). Drain thoroughly.
• Toss the drained pasta with 3 tablespoons of the prepared dressing to coat evenly.

4. Assemble the Salad

• Divide the dressed pasta evenly onto four serving plates or one large platter.
• Top each portion with sliced chicken, fresh nectarine slices, shredded bok choy, and green onions.

5. Add the Dressing

• Drizzle the remaining dressing generously over the salad, ensuring every component is infused with flavor.

6. Serve and Enjoy

• Serve immediately, garnishing with sesame seeds if desired. This salad is best enjoyed fresh to retain its crisp texture and vibrant taste.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 320
• Protein: 27g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fat: 9g
• Fiber: 4g

Pro Tips for Perfect Results

1. Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh nectarines or peaches add a natural sweetness. Avoid canned fruit for this recipe.
2. Customize the Protein: Swap chicken with shrimp, tofu, or tempeh for variety.
3. Dressing Storage: Extra dressing can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
4. Add Crunch: Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds, chopped peanuts, or crispy wontons for added texture.

Did you enjoy this Zesty Asian Chicken and Pasta Salad?

Share your experience, tweaks, or favorite pairings in the comments below!

Don’t forget to bookmark this recipe for inspiration for your next meal!

External Links for Inspiration

1. Health Benefits of Bok Choy – Healthline
2. How to Poach Chicken Perfectly – Food Network
3. Nutritional Value of Ginger – WebMD
4. The Art of Dressing Salads – Serious Eats
5. Angel Hair Pasta Tips – Taste of Home
6. Sesame Oil Benefits – Medical News Today
7. Hoisin Sauce Explained – The Spruce Eats
8. Cooking with Fresh Garlic – Epicurious
9. Why Eat Fresh Fruits? – Harvard Nutrition Source
10. Asian Salad Inspiration – Bon Appétit

FAQs