Delicious How To Make Panera Bread Asian Chicken Salad For Summer Picnics

Summer picnics are a wonderful way to enjoy the warmer weather, and nothing says picnic quite like a refreshing salad. Among the many options, Panera Bread’s Asian Chicken Salad stands out for its vibrant flavors and delightful textures. This salad is not only delicious but also easy to prepare, making it a perfect choice for gatherings or an outdoor feast with family and friends. In this article, we’ll guide you through the steps to recreate this beloved dish right in your own kitchen, so you can impress your guests with a homemade version that tastes just as good as the original.

Ingredients

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 4 cups mixed salad greens (such as romaine and spinach)
• 1 cup shredded carrots
• 1 cup red cabbage, shredded
• 1/2 cup chopped green onions
• 1/2 cup sliced almonds
• 1 cup crispy wonton strips
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1/2 cup Asian sesame dressing

Instructions

1. Begin by grilling or boiling the chicken breasts until fully cooked. This should take about 15-20 minutes depending on your method.
2. Once cooked, allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before slicing it into thin strips.
3. While the chicken is cooking, prepare the salad base. In a large bowl, combine the mixed salad greens, shredded carrots, red cabbage, and green onions.
4. Add the sliced chicken on top of the salad mix, ensuring it is evenly distributed.
5. Sprinkle the sliced almonds and crispy wonton strips over the salad for added texture and flavor.
6. Finally, drizzle the Asian sesame dressing over the top and toss the salad gently to coat all ingredients evenly.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving to add a burst of color and flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Salad

This Asian Chicken Salad is perfect for summer picnics due to its light yet satisfying nature. The combination of grilled chicken, crunchy vegetables, and a flavorful dressing creates a dish that is both nutritious and appetizing. Additionally, it’s a versatile recipe; you can easily adjust the ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Whether you are serving it as a main dish or as a side, this salad will surely please everyone at the table.

Making It Ahead of Time

One of the best things about this salad is that it can be prepared ahead of time. You can grill the chicken in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just be sure to keep the salad dressing separate until you are ready to serve to prevent the greens from wilting. When you are ready to enjoy, simply toss everything together, and you have a fresh and vibrant meal ready to go.

Serving Suggestions

This salad pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. Consider serving it alongside some grilled corn on the cob or a refreshing fruit salad. For drinks, iced tea or lemonade would be excellent choices to complement the flavors of the Asian Chicken Salad. If you want to make it a more substantial meal, consider serving it with a side of rice or quinoa.

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers, store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best enjoyed within 1-2 days to ensure freshness. Keep the dressing separate if possible, so the salad retains its crunch. The flavors will continue to meld together, making it even more delicious the next day.

FAQ

Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of grilling my own?

Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and adds wonderful flavor to the salad.

What can I substitute for wonton strips?

If you can’t find wonton strips, you can use crispy rice noodles or even croutons for a different texture.

Is this salad gluten-free?

To make this salad gluten-free, ensure that the dressing and wonton strips are certified gluten-free.

How can I make this salad vegetarian?

To make a vegetarian version, simply omit the chicken and add additional protein sources like chickpeas or tofu.

Final Thoughts

This Delicious Panera Bread Asian Chicken Salad is not only perfect for summer picnics but also versatile enough for any occasion. With its mix of flavors and textures, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire. So gather your ingredients, prepare this delightful salad, and enjoy a taste of summer with family and friends!