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Easy Creamy Cold Sesame Noodle Salad Recipe with Shredded Chicken and Edamame

creamy cold sesame noodle salad - featured image

A quick and refreshing cold noodle salad featuring creamy sesame dressing, shredded chicken, and crisp edamame. Perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 ounces (225g) spaghetti or thin wheat noodles (Asian egg noodles preferred)
  • 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works great)
  • 1 cup shelled edamame, thawed if frozen
  • 3 tablespoons tahini
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari (for gluten-free)
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons warm water
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 2 green onions, thinly sliced
  • 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
  • Fresh cilantro or chopped peanuts (optional)

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 8 ounces of noodles and cook according to package instructions (usually 6-8 minutes) until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking and cool the noodles. Set aside.
  2. If using frozen shelled edamame, blanch in boiling water for 2-3 minutes until bright green and tender. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
  3. In a medium bowl, whisk together 3 tablespoons tahini, 2 tablespoons soy sauce, 1 tablespoon rice vinegar, 1 tablespoon honey, 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil, and 1 minced garlic clove. Slowly whisk in 2 tablespoons warm water until the dressing is smooth and creamy but still pourable. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes if desired.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled noodles, 2 cups shredded cooked chicken, and 1 cup shelled edamame. Pour the dressing over the top and gently toss to coat everything evenly.
  5. Sprinkle thinly sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds over the salad. Toss lightly to distribute.
  6. Serve immediately or chill in the fridge for 20-30 minutes to let flavors meld and enhance refreshment.

Notes

Do not overcook noodles; rinse immediately in cold water to stop cooking and cool. Use warm water to thin tahini dressing gradually. Toast sesame seeds on medium-low heat carefully to avoid burning. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Add a splash of water or sesame oil before serving if dry. Serve chilled or at room temperature. For gluten-free, use rice noodles or gluten-free pasta and tamari instead of soy sauce.

Nutrition

Keywords: cold noodle salad, sesame dressing, shredded chicken, edamame, easy dinner, meal prep, creamy sesame noodles