Craving a vibrant and nutritious meal that’s as easy to prepare as it is delicious? Look no further than the Asian Chicken Mason Jar Salad! This colorful concoction is not only a feast for the eyes but also a wholesome delight packed with protein, crunchy veggies, and a zesty sesame dressing. Perfect for meal prep or a quick lunch on the go, this recipe will have you saying goodbye to boring salads forever! Dive into the layers of flavor and freshness that make this dish a standout, and get ready to impress your taste buds!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Asian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup cabbage, shredded
- 1 cup carrots, shredded
- 1/2 cup edamame, shelled
- 1/4 cup green onions, sliced
- 1/4 cup sesame dressing
- 1/4 cup almonds, sliced
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken by shredding 2 cups of cooked chicken. If using raw chicken, season with salt and pepper, then grill or bake until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), approximately 10-12 minutes.
- Wash and finely shred the cabbage using a sharp knife or mandoline slicer. Peel and julienne or grate the carrots to create thin, uniform strips.
- Shell the edamame if using fresh pods. If using frozen, briefly blanch in boiling water for 2-3 minutes, then drain and cool.
- Slice green onions thinly, using both white and green parts for added flavor and color.
- Toast sliced almonds in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes until golden and fragrant, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
- Select clean, wide-mouth mason jars for layering. Begin by adding 2-3 tablespoons of sesame dressing at the bottom of each jar.
- Layer ingredients carefully in this order from bottom to top: sesame dressing, edamame, shredded carrots, shredded cabbage, shredded chicken, green onions, and toasted almonds.
- Seal jars tightly with lids and refrigerate. When ready to eat, shake the jar to distribute dressing, then pour into a bowl or plate to serve.
- For best flavor and texture, consume within 2-3 days of preparation. Keep refrigerated and separate dressing if preparing in advance.
Tips
- Cook Smart: If you’re using raw chicken, consider marinating it in your favorite Asian-inspired sauce for added flavor before grilling or baking. This will enhance the taste of your salad.
- Veggie Prep: To save time, shred your cabbage and carrots in advance. You can even buy pre-shredded veggies to make assembly a breeze!
- Layering Matters: When layering your mason jars, always start with the dressing at the bottom. This keeps the veggies crisp and prevents them from getting soggy before you're ready to enjoy your salad.
- Customize Your Jar: Feel free to swap out ingredients based on your preferences. Add bell peppers for extra crunch, or substitute chicken with tofu for a vegetarian option.
- Storage Tips: These salads are best enjoyed within 2-3 days. For optimal freshness, store the dressing separately if you’re preparing them in advance.
- Shake It Up: When you’re ready to eat, give the jar a good shake to distribute the dressing evenly before pouring it into a bowl or plate.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 503kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 85mg
