How To Make Panera Bread Asian Chicken Salad With Grilled Chicken
If you love the fresh, vibrant flavors of Panera Bread’s Asian Chicken Salad, you’re not alone. This salad is a delightful blend of textures and tastes, with grilled chicken, crisp vegetables, and a tangy sesame dressing that brings everything together. In this article, we will guide you through the steps to recreate this delicious salad right in your own kitchen. Perfect for a light lunch or a healthy dinner, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
Recipe Overview
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 8 cups mixed salad greens (such as romaine, spinach, and arugula)
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1 cup red bell pepper, sliced
- 1/2 cup chopped green onions
- 1/2 cup sliced almonds
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- 1/2 cup sesame dressing (store-bought or homemade)
- Optional: Crispy wonton strips for garnish
Instructions
- Start by marinating the chicken breasts. In a small bowl, mix olive oil, salt, and pepper. Rub this mixture all over the chicken breasts.
- Heat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and grill for 6-7 minutes on each side or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Remove from the grill and let rest.
- While the chicken is resting, prepare the salad base. In a large bowl, combine the mixed salad greens, shredded carrots, sliced bell peppers, and chopped green onions.
- After resting, slice the grilled chicken into thin strips and set aside.
- Add the sliced chicken on top of the salad mixture.
- Sprinkle the sliced almonds and chopped cilantro over the salad.
- Drizzle the sesame dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine all the ingredients. Be careful not to bruise the greens.
- If desired, top with crispy wonton strips for an extra crunch.
- Serve immediately and enjoy your homemade Panera Bread Asian Chicken Salad!
Why This Salad Is a Family Favorite
This Asian Chicken Salad is not just delicious, but it also packs a nutritional punch. The combination of lean protein from the grilled chicken, along with a variety of colorful vegetables, makes it a wholesome choice for any meal. The bright flavors of the sesame dressing and fresh herbs elevate this salad to a restaurant-quality dish that you can enjoy at home.
Additionally, this recipe is highly customizable. Feel free to add or substitute ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Some people enjoy adding edamame for extra protein, while others might like to include sliced cucumbers for added crunch.
Meal Prep Tips
This Panera Bread Asian Chicken Salad is perfect for meal prep. You can grill the chicken ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. The salad components can also be prepped and stored separately, with the dressing kept in a sealed container to maintain freshness.
Combine the salad just before serving to ensure that the greens stay crisp and vibrant. This makes it a great option for quick lunches or easy dinners throughout the week.
Making Your Own Sesame Dressing
If you prefer, you can make your own sesame dressing at home. Here’s a simple recipe:
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional)
Whisk all the ingredients together in a bowl and store in the refrigerator until ready to use. This dressing is versatile and can also be used on other salads or as a marinade.
FAQ
Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of grilled chicken?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and adds a delicious flavor. Just shred the chicken and add it to the salad.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
You can prepare the individual components ahead of time, but it’s best to assemble the salad just before serving to keep the greens fresh.
What can I substitute for sesame dressing?
If you don’t have sesame dressing, a light vinaigrette or a homemade peanut dressing can work well. Just ensure it complements the salad’s flavors.
Is this salad gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you use gluten-free soy sauce in the dressing. Always check the labels of the ingredients to ensure they are gluten-free.
Final Thoughts
Making your own version of Panera Bread’s Asian Chicken Salad with grilled chicken is not only easy but also incredibly rewarding. The fresh ingredients and vibrant flavors will make this salad a staple in your home. Whether for a quick lunch or a light dinner, this recipe is a hit every time.
So gather your ingredients, fire up the grill, and enjoy a delightful salad that rivals your favorite café. You’ll love how simple it is to bring restaurant-quality meals into your kitchen!
