Discover how to make Juicy Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Salad you’ll crave tonight with vibrant veggies and a flavorful homemade teriyaki dressing. Easy and fresh!
Juicy Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Salad You’ll Crave Tonight
This Juicy Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Salad you’ll crave tonight is a perfect blend of smoky, sweet, and fresh. It’s packed with tender grilled chicken glazed with homemade teriyaki sauce, served over crisp mixed greens and vibrant vegetables. Within minutes, you can enjoy a healthy dinner that feels indulgent and satisfying.
Why You’ll Love It
This salad combines juicy, flavorful chicken with a fresh mix of vegetables that create a perfect balance. It’s easy to prepare, great for weeknights, and customizable for different dietary needs. You’ll love how the teriyaki marinade enhances the grilled chicken without overpowering the crisp texture of the salad. Plus, it’s light enough to keep you feeling energized yet filling enough to satisfy your hunger.
Ingredients
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts – You can substitute with chicken thighs for juicier meat.
- 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce – Use store-bought or homemade for better control of sugar and salt.
- 4 cups mixed greens – Use spinach, romaine, or spring mix for variety.
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved – Substitute with grape tomatoes or diced fresh tomatoes.
- 1/2 cup shredded carrots – Adds color and sweetness; can swap with shredded zucchini.
- 1/4 cup sliced red onion – Use green onions if preferred milder taste.
- 1/2 cup cucumber slices – Peel if desired.
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds – Toasted for extra flavor; optional.
- 2 tablespoons chopped green onions – Garnish for freshness and crunch.
- Olive oil, salt, and pepper to taste – For grilling and seasoning.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Start by marinating your chicken breasts in teriyaki sauce for at least 30 minutes to infuse flavor deeply.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Brush it lightly with olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side, ensuring it is cooked through and the juices run clear. Let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
- Meanwhile, in a large bowl, toss together mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, shredded carrots, sliced red onion, and cucumber slices.
- Slice the rested grilled chicken and arrange it on top of the salad mixture.
- Sprinkle sesame seeds and chopped green onions over the top for texture and flavor.
- Drizzle with additional teriyaki sauce or a light vinaigrette if desired, then serve immediately for the freshest taste.
For more quick and delicious recipes, also explore Easy Weeknight Dinners and Healthy Salads.
For cooking tips and ideas, check authoritative sources like Food Network.
Expert Tips
- Let the chicken rest after grilling to retain juices and ensure tenderness.
- If you don’t have a grill, you can cook the chicken in a grill pan or broil it in the oven.
- For a lower sodium option, make your own teriyaki sauce using low-sodium soy sauce and natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup.
- To add more crunch, toss in some toasted almonds or crispy wonton strips.
- Scale this recipe easily for larger groups by doubling or tripling ingredients.
Storage
This Juicy Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Salad you’ll crave tonight is best eaten fresh, but leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Keep the dressing separate if possible to prevent sogginess. The grilled chicken can be frozen for up to 3 months, thawing overnight in the fridge before slicing and adding to fresh salad greens.
Variations
- Vegan: Replace grilled chicken with marinated grilled tofu or tempeh and use a vegan teriyaki sauce.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free tamari in place of soy sauce for the teriyaki marinade.
- Dairy-Free: This recipe is naturally dairy-free.
- Refined Sugar-Free: Use a homemade teriyaki sauce sweetened with pure maple syrup or coconut sugar instead of store-bought.
FAQ
- What makes this Juicy Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Salad you’ll crave tonight so juicy?
- Marinating the chicken in teriyaki sauce and grilling it properly locks in moisture, resulting in juicy, flavorful chicken every time.
- Can I prepare the chicken ahead of time?
- Yes, you can grill the chicken in advance and keep it refrigerated. Reheat lightly or serve cold sliced on the salad.
- What can I use instead of teriyaki sauce?
- You can substitute with soy sauce mixed with honey, garlic, and ginger for a quick homemade alternative.
- Is this salad suitable for meal prep?
- Absolutely. Keep the chicken and salad components separate until serving to maintain freshness.
- Can I add noodles to make this salad more filling?
- Yes, cold soba or rice noodles can be added for a heartier dish.
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