How To Make Applebee’s Asian Chicken Salad For A Quick Weeknight Dinner
If you’re looking for a quick and satisfying dinner that the whole family will love, you’ve come to the right place! Applebee’s Asian Chicken Salad is a delightful mix of flavors and textures that you can easily recreate at home. This salad is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Let’s dive into how you can whip up this restaurant favorite in your own kitchen!
Recipe Overview
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 6 cups mixed salad greens (such as romaine and spinach)
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1 cup chopped red cabbage
- 1/2 cup sliced almonds
- 1/2 cup crispy wonton strips
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
- 1/2 cup Asian sesame dressing (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions
- Begin by marinating the chicken breasts. In a small bowl, mix the soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic powder, ground ginger, salt, and pepper. Coat the chicken breasts in the marinade and let them sit for at least 15 minutes.
- While the chicken is marinating, prepare the salad base. In a large mixing bowl, combine the mixed salad greens, shredded carrots, and chopped red cabbage. Toss gently to mix.
- Next, heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Remove the chicken from the heat and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
- While the chicken is resting, prepare your salad toppings. Slice the grilled chicken into bite-sized pieces. Add the sliced chicken on top of the salad greens.
- Sprinkle the sliced almonds and crispy wonton strips over the chicken and greens.
- Finally, drizzle the Asian sesame dressing over the salad. Toss everything together gently, ensuring the dressing coats all the ingredients evenly.
- Garnish with chopped green onions and cilantro for an added burst of freshness. Serve immediately and enjoy your homemade Applebee’s Asian Chicken Salad!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Applebee’s Asian Chicken Salad recipe is a perfect blend of flavors. The savory chicken, crunchy vegetables, and the sweet-and-sour dressing make every bite a treat. Plus, it’s a quick weeknight meal that requires minimal effort. It’s a fantastic way to use up those leftover veggies in your fridge, making it both practical and delicious!
Variations You Can Try
If you want to customize your salad, there are several variations you can incorporate. For a spicier kick, add some sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of sriracha over the top. You can also substitute the chicken for grilled shrimp or tofu for a vegetarian option.
Feel free to add other toppings like mandarin oranges, edamame, or bell peppers to enhance the flavor profile. The beauty of this salad is its versatility, allowing you to make it your own!
Serving Suggestions
This salad can be served as a main dish or as a side. Pair it with some warm bread or a light soup for a complete meal. For an extra touch, serve it alongside a refreshing iced tea or a glass of sake.
Storage Tips
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. However, for the best texture, it’s recommended to keep the crispy wonton strips separate until serving. This will help maintain their crunchiness.
If you want to meal prep, you can prepare the chicken and chop the veggies ahead of time. Just assemble the salad when you’re ready to eat!
FAQ
Can I use a different dressing?
Absolutely! If you have a favorite dressing, feel free to use that. Just make sure it complements the Asian flavors of the salad.
Is this salad gluten-free?
Yes, this salad can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free soy sauce and ensuring your wonton strips are gluten-free as well.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
While the salad is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time. Just keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve.
How can I make this a low-calorie meal?
To reduce calories, you can use grilled chicken breast without the skin, load up on the vegetables, and use a light dressing or just a drizzle of vinegar instead of the full-fat dressing.
Final Thoughts
Making Applebee’s Asian Chicken Salad at home doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can enjoy a delicious and nutritious meal in no time. Whether it’s for a busy weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch, this salad is sure to impress. So gather your ingredients, and let’s get cooking!
