22 Apr 2025
Cook time 15 min
Prep time 20 min
Ingredients:
4 chicken breasts
1 tbsp ginger root
2 garlic cloves
1/3 cup sesame seeds
1/3 cup mirin
1/4 cup soy sauce
1 tsp sesame oil
1 tbsp peanut oil
3/4 cup mushrooms
2 cups green beans
1 cup chinese peas
1/3 cup chives
This Warm Chicken, Green Bean, and Mushroom Salad is a delightful and healthy dish that combines tender chicken breasts with crisp green beans, savory mushrooms, and a flavorful sesame-soy dressing. Suitable for any season, this salad offers a perfect balance of protein, vegetables, and a tangy Asian touch from the soy sauce and mirin. It's a great way to enjoy a nutritious meal that is both satisfying and easy to prepare.
Instructions:
1. Marinate the Chicken:
- In a bowl, combine the ginger, garlic, mirin, soy sauce, and sesame oil.
- Add the chicken breasts to the bowl, ensuring they are well-coated with the marinade.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld.
2. Cook the Chicken:
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Heat the peanut oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
- Once the oil is hot, add the marinated chicken breasts to the skillet.
- Sear the chicken breasts for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they are golden brown.
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and juices run clear.
- Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
3. Prepare the Vegetables:
- While the chicken is cooking, bring a pot of water to boil.
- Add the green beans and Chinese peas to the boiling water and blanch for 3-4 minutes, until they are tender but still crisp.
- Drain the vegetables and immediately transfer them to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. Drain again and set aside.
4. Cook the Mushrooms:
- In the same skillet used for the chicken, lightly toast the sesame seeds over medium heat until golden brown and fragrant. Remove and set aside.
- Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes, until they are tender and any liquid released has evaporated.
5. Assemble the Salad:
- In a large serving bowl, combine the green beans, Chinese peas, mushrooms, and sliced chicken.
- Sprinkle the toasted sesame seeds and chopped chives over the salad.
- Toss gently to combine all ingredients evenly.
6. Serve:
- Serve the salad warm, garnished with additional sesame seeds and chives if desired.
Tips:
- For a richer flavor, marinate the chicken in soy sauce and mirin for 30 minutes before cooking.
- Blanch the green beans and Chinese peas in boiling water for a few minutes to retain their crunchiness and vibrant color.
- Toast the sesame seeds in a dry pan over medium heat for a few minutes until they become golden brown to enhance their nutty flavor.
- Use a mix of different mushroom varieties like shiitake, button mushrooms, or portobello for added texture and taste.
- To ensure the chicken breasts stay moist, cook them on medium heat and let them rest for a few minutes before slicing.
This Warm Chicken, Green Bean, and Mushroom Salad is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. The combination of fresh vegetables, lean chicken, and a flavorful dressing makes it a perfect choice for a wholesome meal. Enjoy this salad warm, and feel free to adjust the ingredients to suit your taste preferences. Happy cooking!