Panera Chicken Salad Recipe
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Join the culinary journey that will tantalize your taste buds and elevate your salad game! Today, we’re delving into the secrets of recreating the iconic Panera Chicken Salad Recipe — a dish that strikes the perfect balance between freshness and flavor.
As we embark on this delicious adventure, we’ll uncover the key ingredients, unravel the art of crafting the signature dressing, and share tips to achieve that unmistakable Panera perfection in your own kitchen.
Whether you’re a devoted Panera enthusiast or a salad aficionado seeking a new culinary experience, this recipe is bound to become a staple in your repertoire.
Get ready to transform ordinary salads into extraordinary culinary delights with our guide to the Panera Chicken Salad recipe!
Ingredients Required for Panera Chicken Salad Recipe
For the Salad:
- 4 cups roasted and pulled chicken (mix of white and dark meat)
- 1 cup red grapes, halved
- â…” cup diced celery
- 1 cup sliced almonds (toasted)
For the Dressing:
- 1 cup Duke’s mayonnaise
- Juice from 1 lemon
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- ½ teaspoon ground mustard powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon dried tarragon
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
Equipment & Tools Need for This Recipe
- Oven
- Meat fork or similar tool
- Whisk
- Mixing bowls
- Knife for slicing and dicing
- Pan for toasting almonds (optional)
- Cutting board
Preparation Time: Approximately 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
How to Make Panera Chicken Salad
1. Roasting the Chicken: Preheat the oven to 400°F. Season a 3.5-pound chicken with olive oil, salt, pepper, and lemon pepper. Roast for approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes or until juices run clear. Let the chicken rest before pulling and dicing.
2. Salad Preparation: In a large bowl, combine 4 cups of roasted and pulled chicken, 1 cup halved red grapes, 2/3 cup diced celery, and 1 cup toasted sliced almonds.
3. Dressing Creation: In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 cup Duke’s mayonnaise, juice from 1 lemon, 1 tablespoon honey, 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar, 1/2 teaspoon each of ground mustard powder, onion powder, dried basil, dried tarragon, and kosher salt.
4. Final Assembly: Gently fold the dressing into the chicken salad, ensuring even coating. Adjust the dressing quantity to achieve the desired consistency.
5. Building the Sandwich: Slice a crusty sourdough loaf. Layer the Panera Chicken Salad on the bread, adding tomato slices and green leaf lettuce.
Please take a moment to watch the recipe video for a more comprehensive understanding of the process.
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Nutrition Table for Panera Chicken Salad
Nutrient | Amount |
Calories | 450 |
Total Fat | 28g |
– Saturated Fat | 5g |
Cholesterol | 80mg |
Sodium | 550mg |
Total Carbohydrates | 15g |
– Dietary Fiber | 3g |
– Sugars | 9g |
Protein | 35g |
Note: Nutrition values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes used.
Creative Serving Ideas for Panera Chicken Salad
1. Cranberry Turkey Salad: Serve alongside the Panera Chicken Salad for a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The Cranberry Turkey Salad will complement the chicken salad well.
2. Chicken Spaghetti: Create a hearty meal by pairing Panera Chicken Salad with a side of chicken spaghetti. The pasta dish adds a comforting touch to the meal.
3. Baja Shrimp Bowl: For a refreshing and light option, serve the Panera Chicken Salad with a side of Baja Shrimp Bowl. The seafood flavors will contrast nicely with the chicken.
4. Grilled Chicken: Keep it simple and healthy by serving Panera Chicken Salad with grilled chicken. This combination offers a double dose of delicious chicken flavors.
5. Caesar Salad: Create a classic pairing by serving Panera Chicken Salad with a side of Caesar Salad. The creamy dressing and crisp lettuce will complement the chicken salad.
6. Fried Chicken: For a Southern twist, pair Panera Chicken Salad with some crispy fried chicken. The combination of textures is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
7. Cava Harissa Honey Chicken: Infuse some Mediterranean flavors by serving Panera Chicken Salad with Cava Harissa Honey Chicken. The spicy and sweet notes will add depth to the meal.
8. Gourmet Chicken: Elevate the meal with gourmet chicken preparations. This can include herb-infused or specialty seasoned chicken to complement the Panera Chicken Salad.
9. Chicken Salad: Create a double dose of chicken goodness by serving Panera Chicken Salad with a classic chicken salad. This is a chicken lover’s dream!
10. Chipotle Roasting Sauce: Add a kick of smoky and spicy flavor by serving Panera Chicken Salad with a side of chipotle roasting sauce. It’s a bold and flavorful combination.
Some Special Recommendation and tips on this Recipe
1. Fresh Ingredients Matter: Ensure the chicken, grapes, celery, and almonds are fresh for the best flavor and texture. Quality ingredients lay the foundation for a delicious salad.
2. Roast Your Own Chicken: While store-bought rotisserie chicken is convenient, roasting your own adds a depth of flavor. Season it generously and monitor it closely to achieve the perfect roast.
3. Toasting Almonds: Toasting almonds enhances their nutty flavor. Be vigilant during toasting to prevent burning, either on the stovetop or in the oven. The aroma will guide you; they should be golden, not brown.
4. Customize Your Bread: Choose your favorite bread—whether it’s sourdough, whole grain, or another variety. Panera allows you to choose, so make it a personal preference.
5. Balancing Dressing Consistency: The dressing binds the salad together. Add it gradually and adjust according to your preference. Some enjoy a moist salad, while others prefer a drier consistency. You can always add more but can’t take it away once incorporated.
6. Add Dressing Just Before Serving: Mix the dressing into the salad just before serving to maintain the freshness and crunch of the ingredients. This ensures a perfect balance of flavors and textures.
7. Experiment with Nuts: While the recipe calls for sliced almonds, feel free to experiment with other nuts like walnuts or pecans. It can add a different dimension to the salad.
8. Play with Greens: While the original recipe doesn’t specify the type of lettuce, green leaf lettuce is a great choice. However, you can experiment with other greens like arugula or spinach for added variety.
9. Serve Chilled: For a refreshing experience, chill your salad in the refrigerator for a short while before serving. The cool temperature enhances the overall enjoyment.
10. Pair with a Side: Consider serving your Panera Chicken Salad with a side of fresh fruit, sweet potato fries, or even a cup of Panera-style soup for a complete and satisfying meal.
Frequently Asked Questions on Panera Chicken Salad Recipe
In this section, we’ve compiled a list of most commonly asked questions on Panera Chicken Salad Recipe along with concise answers
1. Does Panera have chicken salads?
Yes, Panera offers a variety of chicken salads on their menu.
2. Why is chicken salad so good?
Chicken salad is often praised for its balanced combination of flavors and textures, featuring tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and a creamy dressing that creates a satisfying and delicious meal.
3. How does Panera Bread cook their chicken?
Panera typically grills their chicken for salads, imparting a smoky flavor and maintaining a juicy, tender texture.
4. What is mock chicken salad made of?
Mock chicken salad, often a vegetarian or vegan alternative, is typically made with plant-based protein sources like tofu, chickpeas, or seitan, combined with mayonnaise or vegan mayo, and various herbs and seasonings.
5. What are the different types of chicken salads at Panera?
Panera offers a range of chicken salads, including the popular BBQ Chicken Salad, Caesar Salad with Chicken, and the Fuji Apple Salad with Chicken, each featuring unique ingredients and dressings.
6. Can you customize Panera chicken salads?
Yes, Panera allows customers to customize their salads, including the option to choose different greens, dressings, and toppings for their chicken salads.
7. Is Panera’s chicken raised responsibly?
Panera has committed to serving chicken raised without antibiotics, reflecting their dedication to responsible sourcing and quality ingredients.
8. What dressing options are available for Panera chicken salads?
Panera offers a variety of dressings for their salads, and common choices for chicken salads include Caesar dressing, BBQ ranch, and Greek dressing.
9. Are Panera chicken salads a healthy option?
Panera chicken salads can be a nutritious choice, especially when opting for lighter dressings and incorporating a variety of colorful vegetables for added nutrients.
10. Can you order Panera chicken salads online?
Yes, Panera Bread provides online ordering options, allowing customers to customize and order their favorite chicken salads for convenient pickup or delivery.
In conclusion, crafting the Panera Chicken Salad at home is a delightful journey into the realm of fresh, wholesome flavors. By combining tender grilled chicken, crisp greens, and an array of vibrant ingredients, you can recreate the beloved Panera experience in your own kitchen.
This recipe not only offers a delicious alternative to dining out but also allows you to customize the ingredients to suit your preferences. Whether enjoyed as a light lunch or a satisfying dinner, this homemade Panera Chicken Salad is a testament to the joy of creating restaurant-quality meals in the comfort of your home.
Elevate your culinary adventures, savor the wholesome goodness, and relish the satisfaction of a well-made, flavorful dish that mirrors the excellence of Panera’s signature creation.
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