Irresistible Teriyaki Chicken Pasta Salad Recipe Delight

The Teriyaki Chicken Pasta Salad is a delightful medley that dances on your taste buds with its sweet, savory flavor. Imagine juicy chunks of chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and vibrant veggies all drizzled in a mouthwatering teriyaki sauce—it’s like a culinary hug! spicy chicken variation.

I remember the first time I made this dish; I was trying to impress my friends at a summer barbecue. The sun was shining, laughter filled the air, and as I served this colorful salad, it vanished faster than my hopes of winning the grill master title. Perfect for any occasion, this salad will make you feel like a kitchen rockstar with minimal effort!

Ingredients for Teriyaki Chicken Pasta Salad

For more inspiration, check out this Teriyaki Salmon Sushi Bowl recipe.

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 chicken breasts work well; adjust based on how many guests you’re hosting.
• Pasta: Use your favorite type—penne or rotini are excellent choices that hold onto the sauce beautifully.
• Bell Peppers: Choose assorted colors for visual appeal; they add crunch and sweetness to the salad.
• Carrots: Freshly grated carrots provide extra color and a satisfying crunch.
• Green Onions: These add a fresh, zesty kick; chop them finely for an even distribution of flavor.

For the Sauce:

• Soy Sauce: Opt for low-sodium soy sauce to manage saltiness while still delivering that classic umami punch.
• Honey or Maple Syrup: Use honey for sweetness; maple syrup is an excellent vegan alternative.
• Fresh Ginger: Grate fresh ginger to infuse your dish with aromatic warmth; it elevates the flavors dramatically.
• Garlic Cloves: Fresh minced garlic adds depth and richness to the sauce—don’t skimp on this!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Teriyaki Chicken Pasta Salad

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to boil and add your pasta. Cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

While the pasta cooks, season your chicken breasts with salt and pepper. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the chicken until golden brown on both sides and cooked through (about 6-7 minutes per side). Remove from heat and let cool before chopping into bite-sized pieces.

Step 3: Chop Your Veggies

Dice bell peppers into small pieces, grate carrots if you haven’t already, and slice green onions thinly. The more colorful your mix, the more appetizing it looks!

Step 4: Make the Teriyaki Sauce

In a small bowl or jar, whisk together soy sauce, honey (or maple syrup), grated ginger, and minced garlic until combined. Adjust sweetness according to your taste.

Step 5: Combine Everything

In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked pasta, chopped chicken, bell peppers, carrots, and green onions. Pour the teriyaki sauce over the top and toss everything gently until well coated.

Step 6: Serve It Up

Transfer your beautiful teriyaki chicken pasta salad onto plates or into a serving bowl. Mediterranean chicken alternative Drizzle any remaining sauce over each serving for that extra wow factor!

Now gather around with family or friends because your flavorful masterpiece is ready to be devoured! Enjoy every last bite of this delightful salad that brings smiles all around!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by searing the chicken until golden brown to lock in those juices. While it cooks, boil your pasta in salted water, then whip up the teriyaki sauce. This sequence keeps everything fresh and flavorful.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap chicken for turkey or beef, depending on your preference! Toss in colorful veggies like bell peppers or snap peas, and add sesame seeds for that extra crunch. Customize away!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover teriyaki chicken pasta salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat gently in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water to keep it moist.

I remember the first time I made this teriyaki chicken pasta salad—it disappeared faster than a magician’s rabbit! My friends couldn’t stop raving about it, making me feel like a kitchen wizard that day.

FAQs:

What ingredients are used in Teriyaki Chicken Pasta Salad?

To make Teriyaki Chicken Pasta Salad, you’ll need cooked chicken breast, colorful pasta like bowtie or rotini, bell peppers, carrots, and green onions. The dressing consists of a delicious mixture of low-sodium soy sauce, honey or maple syrup for sweetness, garlic, and ginger for flavor. You can add sesame seeds on top for a crunchy finish. This salad is versatile; feel free to include other vegetables like broccoli or snap peas to enhance the nutritional profile.

How do I prepare the chicken for Teriyaki Chicken Pasta Salad?

Start by marinating bite-sized pieces of chicken breast in a blend of soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, and grated ginger for about 30 minutes. Then grill or sauté the chicken until fully cooked. Allow it to cool before combining with the pasta and vegetables. For extra flavor, you can reserve some marinade and reduce it in a saucepan to drizzle over the salad right before serving.

Can I make Teriyaki Chicken Pasta Salad in advance?

Yes, you can prepare Teriyaki Chicken Pasta Salad ahead of time! It’s ideal for meal prep or gatherings. Simply cook the pasta and chicken earlier in the day. Combine all ingredients except the dressing and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Drizzle your teriyaki dressing just before serving to keep everything fresh and prevent sogginess.

Is Teriyaki Chicken Pasta Salad suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! Teriyaki Chicken Pasta Salad is perfect for meal prep as it holds up well in the fridge. You can portion it into individual containers for easy grab-and-go lunches throughout the week. Just remember to keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat to maintain freshness and texture.

Conclusion for Teriyaki Chicken Pasta Salad:

Teriyaki Chicken Pasta Salad is a delightful blend of flavors that brings together tender chicken with vibrant vegetables and pasta. This dish is not only simple to prepare but also versatile enough to suit various tastes by incorporating different veggies or proteins. creamy pasta dish It’s great for meal prepping or serving at gatherings, making it a convenient choice for busy lifestyles. Don’t forget to customize your dressing as per your preference to elevate the dish further! Enjoy this healthy salad that’s bursting with flavor!

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Teriyaki Chicken Pasta Salad

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• Author: Vanessa
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

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Description

Teriyaki Chicken Pasta Salad is a vibrant and satisfying dish that combines tender chicken, colorful vegetables, and pasta, all enveloped in a luscious teriyaki sauce. Perfect for potlucks, barbecues, or quick weeknight meals, this salad balances sweet and savory flavors that are sure to impress your family and friends. Easy to prepare and customizable, it makes for a delightful addition to any table.

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Ingredients

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• 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
• 8 oz pasta (penne or rotini)
• 1 bell pepper (diced)
• 1 cup grated carrots
• 2 green onions (sliced)
• 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
• 2 tbsp honey or maple syrup
• 1 tsp fresh ginger (grated)
• 2 garlic cloves (minced)

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Instructions

1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water.
2. Season chicken with salt and pepper; cook in a skillet over medium heat for 6-7 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Let cool before chopping into bite-sized pieces.
3. Dice the bell pepper, grate the carrots, and slice the green onions.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey (or maple syrup), ginger, and garlic.
5. In a large bowl, combine pasta, chicken, bell pepper, carrots, and green onions. Pour the teriyaki sauce over everything and toss gently until well coated.
6. Serve immediately or refrigerate for later enjoyment.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Skillet
• Cuisine: Asian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (about 240g)
• Calories: 325
• Sugar: 8g
• Sodium: 480mg
• Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 41g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 70mg