Introduction

The Kyoto Chicken Soba Salad with Creamy Sesame Dressing is a delightful dish that beautifully marries the flavors of tender chicken, soba noodles, and a rich, nutty dressing. This salad is not only visually appealing but also packed with nutrients, making it a perfect meal for any time of the day. The combination of fresh vegetables and savory chicken creates a satisfying and healthy meal that is sure to impress.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

Chicken:
– 2 chicken breasts (about 500g)
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil

Soba Noodles:
– 200g soba noodles

Vegetables:
– 1 cup baby spinach leaves
– 1/2 cucumber, thinly sliced
– 1 carrot, julienned
– 1/4 red cabbage, shredded
– 2 green onions, finely chopped

Creamy Sesame Dressing:
– 3 tablespoons tahini
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon honey (or maple syrup for a vegan option)
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Water to thin (as needed)
– Sesame seeds for garnish

Prep Time

15 minutes

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: Serves 4

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Soba Noodles

Cook the soba noodles according to the package instructions. Once cooked, rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process and drain well.

Step 2: Cook Chicken

In a skillet, heat a little oil over medium heat. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper. Cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until golden and cooked through. Remove from heat and allow it to rest before slicing.

Step 3: Prepare the Salad Ingredients

While the chicken and noodles cook, prepare the salad ingredients. Slice the cucumber, bell peppers, and green onions. Chop the cabbage into thin strips. Make sure all vegetables are cleaned and prepped for assembly.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Sesame Dressing

In a bowl, combine tahini, sesame oil, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, and a little water. Whisk together until smooth and creamy. Adjust the consistency with more water if needed.

Step 5: Assemble the Salad

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked soba noodles, sliced chicken, cucumber, bell peppers, green onions, and cabbage. Drizzle the creamy sesame dressing over the top and toss gently to combine all ingredients.

Step 6: Serve

Transfer the salad to serving bowls or a platter. You can top it with extra sesame seeds and sliced green onions for garnish.

Notes

Note 1: Chicken Alternatives

You can substitute chicken thighs with chicken breast or even tofu for a vegetarian option.

Note 2: Soba Noodle Variations

Feel free to use whole wheat or gluten-free noodles if you have dietary restrictions.

Note 3: Dressing Adjustments

Alter the sweetness of the dressing by adjusting the amount of honey to suit your taste preference.

Note 4: Vegetable Substitutions

You can customize the salad with other vegetables like carrots, radishes, or edamame for added texture and flavor.

Note 5: Make Ahead

This salad can be made ahead of time. Store the components separately until you’re ready to serve for best freshness.

Cook techniques

Grilling Chicken

Grilling the chicken adds a smoky flavor and helps to keep it juicy. Make sure the grill is preheated, and don’t overcrowd the grill to ensure even cooking.

Shredding Chicken

After cooking, allow the chicken to rest before shredding it with two forks. This technique ensures that it stays tender and retains its juices.

Cooking Soba Noodles

Cook soba noodles in boiling water until they are just tender. Be careful not to overcook them, as they can become mushy. Rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process.

Making Salad Dressing

Combine sesame oil, soy sauce, and other ingredients to create a creamy dressing. Whisking vigorously ensures a smooth consistency and helps emulsify the oil.

Tossing Salad Ingredients

Once all components are prepared, toss the chicken, soba noodles, and vegetables gently to avoid breaking the noodles. This helps evenly distribute the flavors.

Garnishing

Finish the salad with garnishes such as sesame seeds and sliced green onions. This adds visual appeal and enhances the overall flavor profile.

FAQ

Can I use other types of noodles instead of soba?

Yes, you can substitute soba with other noodles like udon or rice noodles, but cooking times will vary.

Is the salad served cold or warm?

The salad is best served cold or at room temperature, making it a refreshing dish from the refrigerator.

Can I meal prep this salad?

Yes, you can meal prep the salad by keeping the dressing separate until you are ready to serve to prevent sogginess.

How long does the dressing last?

The dressing can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.

What vegetables can I add to the salad?

You can add a variety of vegetables such as bell peppers, cucumbers, or carrots to enhance flavor and texture.

Conclusion

This Kyoto Chicken Soba Salad with Creamy Sesame Dressing is a delightful fusion of flavors, textures, and nutrition, making it an ideal choice for a light meal or a refreshing side dish. The combination of tender chicken, soba noodles, and crunchy vegetables, all enhanced by a rich sesame dressing, ensures that you enjoy a satisfying dish packed with taste and health benefits. Whether enjoyed on its own or paired with other ingredients, this salad is sure to please your palate.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Teriyaki Salmon Salad

A healthy alternative, combining grilled salmon with mixed greens, sesame seeds, and a tangy teriyaki dressing for a flavorful twist.

Tofu Soba Noodle Bowl

Replace the chicken with marinated tofu for a delicious vegetarian option, incorporating tofu skin, fresh vegetables, and a sesame soy dressing.

Asian Ginger Chicken Stir-Fry

Enhanced flavors of ginger and garlic stir-fried with chicken and vegetables, served over a bed of soba noodles for a hearty meal.

Cucumber and Avocado Sushi Rolls

These refreshing sushi rolls can complement the soba salad perfectly, offering a light and fresh alternative bursting with flavor.

Grilled Vegetable Medley

A mix of seasonal vegetables grilled to perfection, drizzled with a sesame dressing, making a great side dish alongside the soba salad.

Miso Soup

A warm and comforting miso soup can be a wonderful starter to enjoy before the soba salad, enhancing the Japanese dining experience.

Fruit and Nut Rice Paper Rolls

Light and refreshing rice paper rolls filled with seasonal fruits and nuts, providing a sweet contrast to the savory elements of the salad.