Quick And Simple Applebee’s Asian Chicken Salad For Meal Prep
If you’re looking for a delicious, nutritious, and easy-to-make salad that you can prep ahead of time, look no further than the Applebee’s Asian Chicken Salad. This recipe captures all the vibrant flavors and textures of the original dish, making it perfect for meal prep. Whether you’re packing lunch for work, school, or just want a healthy dinner option, this salad is your go-to solution. With crisp greens, grilled chicken, and a delightful blend of Asian-inspired ingredients, you’ll love how easy it is to whip up this salad and have it ready for days to come.
One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility. You can easily customize it with your favorite toppings or dressings, making it a great base for all kinds of flavors. Plus, it’s packed with protein and veggies, ensuring you stay satisfied and energized throughout your day. Let’s get started on creating this quick and simple Applebee’s Asian Chicken Salad that you can enjoy any day of the week.
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
10 minutes
Total Time
25 minutes
Servings
4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups mixed salad greens (romaine and iceberg)
- 1 cup shredded red cabbage
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1 pound grilled chicken breast, sliced
- 1/2 cup sliced almonds
- 1/2 cup chow mein noodles
- 1/2 cup mandarin oranges (drained)
- 1/4 cup green onions, sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/2 cup Asian sesame dressing
Instructions
- Begin by preparing all your ingredients. Wash and dry the salad greens, red cabbage, and carrots.
- Slice the grilled chicken breast into thin strips, ensuring they are bite-sized for easy eating.
- In a large bowl, combine the mixed salad greens, shredded red cabbage, and shredded carrots.
- Add the sliced grilled chicken on top of the mixed greens, distributing it evenly throughout the bowl.
- Next, sprinkle the sliced almonds over the salad for a delightful crunch.
- Add the chow mein noodles for additional texture and flavor; they provide that signature Asian flair.
- Include the drained mandarin oranges for a touch of sweetness that balances the savory elements.
- Top the salad with sliced green onions and chopped fresh cilantro for added freshness and flavor.
- Drizzle the Asian sesame dressing over the salad. You can adjust the amount based on your preference.
- Gently toss the salad to combine all the ingredients, ensuring the dressing evenly coats everything.
- Serve immediately or divide the salad into meal prep containers for a quick grab-and-go option.
Why Meal Prep This Salad?
Meal prepping is a fantastic way to save time and effort during busy weeks. By preparing the Applebee’s Asian Chicken Salad in advance, you can easily grab a container each day, ensuring you have a healthy meal ready to go. This salad stays fresh in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, making it an ideal choice for meal prep.
Additionally, meal prepping helps you control portion sizes and ingredients, ensuring that you stick to your dietary goals. By making this salad, you can enjoy a mix of flavors and textures that satisfy cravings without compromising on nutrition.
Customizing Your Salad
One of the best parts about the Applebee’s Asian Chicken Salad is its flexibility. You can easily modify the recipe to include your favorite ingredients or to cater to dietary preferences.
For a vegetarian option, consider swapping out the chicken for tofu or chickpeas. You can also add additional vegetables like bell peppers, cucumbers, or snap peas to enhance the salad’s crunch and nutritional value. If you prefer a spicier kick, try adding sliced jalapenos or a drizzle of sriracha sauce.
Storing and Reheating Tips
When storing your meal prep salads, it’s important to keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat. This will help maintain the freshness and prevent the greens from wilting. Use airtight containers to keep your salads fresh in the refrigerator.
When ready to enjoy, simply add the dressing, toss, and enjoy! If you prefer to heat the chicken, you can microwave it for a short time before combining it with the salad ingredients. However, many people enjoy the salad cold, which makes it refreshing and crisp.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of grilled chicken?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut and adds flavor to the salad. Just shred or slice the chicken and incorporate it into the salad as you would with freshly grilled chicken.
2. How can I make this salad gluten-free?
To make this salad gluten-free, simply replace the chow mein noodles with gluten-free crispy noodles or omit them entirely. Ensure the Asian sesame dressing is also gluten-free, as some brands may contain soy sauce, which often has gluten.
3. What can I substitute for mandarin oranges?
If you don’t have mandarin oranges, you can substitute them with diced fresh pineapple or sliced strawberries for a fruity touch. Both options complement the salad well and add a burst of flavor.
4. Can I make this salad vegan?
Yes! You can easily make this salad vegan by omitting the chicken and replacing it with chickpeas or marinated tofu. Use a vegan Asian dressing to keep all the flavors intact.
Final Thoughts
With its vibrant colors and bold flavors, the Quick And Simple Applebee’s Asian Chicken Salad is a perfect addition to your meal prep routine. It’s not only easy to make but also allows you to create a healthy and satisfying dish that you can enjoy throughout the week.
Give this recipe a try, and you’ll quickly find it becoming a staple in your meal prep arsenal. The combination of fresh ingredients, protein, and tasty dressing will keep you coming back for more. Enjoy this delightful salad as a light lunch or dinner, and feel good about nourishing your body with wholesome ingredients.
