Imagine biting into a delicious Panera Bread chicken salad. It’s a mix of flavors and textures that’s hard to resist. You can make this tasty dish at home with just a few ingredients and our simple recipe. The Napa Almond Chicken Salad is a hit, and we’ll guide you through making it in 19 minutes. It serves 6, with each serving having 545 kcal.
panera bread chicken salad recipe
Key Takeaways
- Prep Time: 15 minutes, Cook Time: 4 minutes, Total Time: 19 minutes
- Servings: 6, Calories per serving: 545 kcal, Protein per serving: 28 g
- You can make Panera Bread chicken salad at home with our easy recipe
- Our recipe includes a unique blend of flavors and textures, similar to the Napa Almond Chicken Salad
- With our Panera Chicken Salad recipe, you can enjoy a delicious meal in just 19 minutes
- Each serving contains 41 g of carbohydrates, 28 g of fat, and 2 g of fiber
- You can store the chicken salad in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days
Table of Contents
The Story Behind Panera Bread’s Beloved Chicken Salad
Exploring chicken salad panera bread reveals a rich history. The panera bread recipe for chicken salad has won many fans. It’s tasty and healthy, with about 500-600 calories per serving.
The napa chicken salad shows Panera Bread’s dedication to clean ingredients. They avoid artificial stuff, making them a favorite among many. With over 2,160 locations in 48 states and Ontario, Canada, they keep innovating.
Some interesting facts about the panera bread recipe for chicken salad are:
- A serving of chicken salad has about 320-350 calories without bread
- Using Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise cuts down on saturated fat and adds protein
- Switching to Greek yogurt and light mayo can lower calories by up to 30% without losing flavor
The chicken salad panera bread is loved for its unique taste and clean ingredients. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to it, you’ll notice the effort put into each dish.
Essential Ingredients for Panera Bread Chicken Salad Recipe
To make a tasty copycat panera chicken salad, you need some key ingredients. These include chicken breast, celery, grapes, almonds, and a special dressing. The dressing is made with mayonnaise, lemon juice, and herbs. This homemade panera chicken salad recipe makes 4 servings and takes about 4 hours and 30 minutes to prepare.
The ingredients for the panera bread chicken salad recipe are chosen for their flavors and textures. You can use either red or green grapes. It’s best to toast the almonds for 1-2 minutes to enhance their taste. The dressing is made with 1/2 cup of Duke’s mayonnaise, 1 tablespoon of honey, and 1 tablespoon of cider vinegar.
- 1 pound chicken breast
- 1/2 cup celery, diced
- 1/2 cup grapes, halved
- 1/4 cup almonds, toasted
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon cider vinegar
These ingredients will help you make a delicious and authentic panera bread chicken salad recipe. It’s perfect for a quick and easy meal. With its unique flavors and textures, this copycat panera chicken salad is sure to be a hit.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Chicken breast | 1 pound |
| Celery | 1/2 cup |
| Grapes | 1/2 cup |
| Almonds | 1/4 cup |
| Mayonnaise | 1/2 cup |
Kitchen Tools and Equipment You’ll Need
To make the Panera bread salad recipe, you’ll need some basic kitchen tools. Having the right tools makes the process easier and more efficient. With just a few pieces of equipment, you can easily make the best Panera chicken salad recipe at home.
A mixing bowl, cutting board, and knife are essential for any kitchen. They help you chop, mix, and prepare the ingredients for the panera bread chicken salad. You’ll also need storage containers to keep the salad fresh for longer.
Basic Equipment Requirements
- Mixing bowl
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Storage containers
Optional Tools for Easier Preparation
Some optional tools can make preparation easier. A food processor helps chop ingredients, and a whisk simplifies mixing the dressing. With these tools, you can make the panera bread chicken salad recipe more efficiently and enjoy the best panera chicken salad recipe at home.
Storage Containers
After preparing the salad, it’s crucial to store it in airtight containers to keep it fresh. You can choose between glass or plastic containers, based on your preference. Always label the containers with the date and contents, so you can easily identify what’s inside. By following these steps, you can enjoy your panera bread chicken salad at home, made with the best panera chicken salad recipe.
Preparing the Perfect Chicken Base
To make a tasty panera bread inspired chicken salad, start with a great chicken base. Cook the chicken breast to the right temperature and shred it into small pieces. Use a panera bread copycat recipe to get the perfect texture and flavor.
Here are some tips for the perfect chicken base for your chicken salad panera bread:
- Cook the chicken breast to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure food safety.
- Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken.
- Shred the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces to create a uniform texture.
A panera bread inspired chicken salad has cooked chicken, mayonnaise, and seasonings. For a panera bread copycat recipe, mix mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and honey for a sweet and tangy dressing. The secret to a great chicken salad panera bread is using top-notch ingredients and preparing the chicken base just right.
Here is a summary of the nutritional information for a typical chicken salad panera bread:
| Nutrient | Amount per serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 497 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 89 g |
| Protein | 10 g |
| Total fat | 16 g |
By following these tips and using a panera bread copycat recipe, you can make a delicious chicken salad panera bread. It’s perfect for lunch or dinner. Always choose fresh and high-quality ingredients for the best flavor and texture.
Creating the Signature Dressing
To make the signature dressing, you need mayonnaise, lemon juice, and herbs. This dressing is key for the napa almond chicken salad and panera chicken salad. It adds a creamy, tangy flavor that complements the chicken and other ingredients.
When making the dressing, balancing flavors is crucial. Adjust the lemon juice and mayonnaise to your liking. Some like it more lemony, while others prefer it milder. You can also add diced onions or garlic for extra flavor.
Mixing the Base
Mixing the dressing base is easy. Just combine mayonnaise, lemon juice, and herbs in a bowl. Stir until smooth and creamy, similar to mayonnaise.
Balancing the Flavors
After mixing the base, balance the flavors. Add more lemon juice, mayonnaise, or herbs until it tastes right. You can also add salt or pepper for extra flavor. Taste as you go and adjust until perfect.
Achieving the Right Consistency
The dressing’s consistency is important. It should coat the chicken and ingredients well but not be too thick. If it’s too thick, add water or lemon juice. If too thin, add more mayonnaise or herbs. Follow these tips for a delicious panera bread chicken salad.
Combining and Seasoning Your Ingredients
To make the best panera chicken salad, you need to mix and season your ingredients well. The recipe calls for chicken, dressing, and other ingredients. Start by mixing the chicken, dressing, and ingredients like sliced almonds, seedless red grapes, and diced celery in a big bowl.
When making the panera bread chicken salad at home, balancing flavors is key. Use about 1 part dressing to 4 parts chicken. Add salt, black pepper, and herbs like dried rosemary and basil to taste. The secret to a great salad is finding the right mix of flavors and textures.
Here are some tips for mixing and seasoning your ingredients:
- Choose high-quality ingredients, like fresh herbs and real mayonnaise, for the best chicken salad.
- Adjust the dressing amount to your liking, but remember, it should be creamy and tangy.
- Try adding diced apples or chopped pecans to give your salad a unique flavor.
By following these tips and using the right ingredients, you can make a delicious panera bread chicken salad at home. Remember to taste and adjust the seasoning as you go. Don’t be afraid to try new ingredients and flavors to make the salad your own.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Cooked chicken breast | 3-4 cups |
| Sliced almonds | 1/2 cup |
| Seedless red grapes | 1/2 cup |
| Diced celery | 1/3 cup |
Expert Tips for Authentic Panera Taste
To get a taste just like Panera’s, focus on the details. Use top-notch ingredients and a recipe inspired by Panera. This will help you nail the flavors.
Choosing the right ingredients is crucial for a Panera-style chicken salad. Here are some tips to make your dish shine:
Ingredient Selection Secrets
- Choose fresh and tender chicken breast, cooked to perfection.
- Select crisp and fresh vegetables, such as celery and grapes, to add texture and flavor.
- Use a high-quality mayonnaise or consider a substitute like Greek yogurt for a lighter version of the panera bread copycat recipe.
By following these tips and using a great recipe, you can make a chicken salad that’s just as good as Panera’s. Remember, the secret to a true Panera taste is in the details. So, don’t be shy to try different things until you find the perfect mix of flavors.
Serving Suggestions and Presentation Ideas
There are many ways to serve your panera bread chicken salad recipe. You can place it on a bed of greens, turn it into a sandwich, or enjoy it as a snack. The napa almond chicken salad is a great idea for adding crunch. Try adding sliced almonds or dried cranberries for extra texture.
A panera chicken salad is perfect for any meal or event. You can make it fit different diets by swapping out ingredients. Here are some ideas:
- Serve on a bed of mixed greens with sliced apples and a sprinkle of gorgonzola cheese
- Use as a filling for a sandwich or wrap
- Offer as a snack or appetizer at a party
Add garnishes like chopped herbs or edible flowers to make your panera bread chicken salad look good. Use different containers or bowls to add color and texture.
For a great presentation, keep it simple and fresh. Let the natural flavors and textures of the ingredients stand out. Don’t be afraid to add your own twist. With these ideas, you’ll impress everyone with your delicious panera chicken salad.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Keeping your panera bread salad fresh is key. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge. This way, it stays good for 3 to 4 days.
Make things easier by preparing parts ahead. Cook and shred the chicken first. Then, store it in the fridge until you’re ready to mix everything together. This saves time and keeps the salad fresh.
- Store the salad in an airtight container to prevent moisture and other flavors from affecting the salad.
- Keep the salad refrigerated at a temperature of 40°F (4°C) or below to prevent bacterial growth.
- Consider freezing the salad for later use, but be aware that the texture and flavor may be affected.
Follow these tips to enjoy your salad longer. Whether you’re making it at home or using a recipe, storing it right is crucial. It ensures your meal stays delicious and satisfying.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making a panera bread inspired chicken salad, it’s key to avoid common mistakes. Overcooking the chicken is a big error. It makes the chicken dry and tough. To fix this, cook the chicken until it hits 165°F. Then, let it rest for a few minutes before chopping it.
Another mistake is using low-quality ingredients. This includes bad mayonnaise or frozen chicken. Instead, choose fresh, high-quality stuff like chicken breast, mayonnaise, and fresh herbs. This will make your salad taste just like Panera’s.
Here are some more mistakes to steer clear of when making chicken salad panera bread:
- Not chilling the salad long enough, which can cause the flavors to meld together unevenly
- Using too much dressing, which can make the salad overly soggy
- Not adding enough texture, such as toasted pecans or dried cranberries, which can make the salad boring
By avoiding these mistakes, you can make a tasty and authentic panera bread inspired chicken salad. Use top-notch ingredients, cook the chicken right, and chill the salad long enough. This way, your salad will be perfect for lunch or dinner.
| Mistake | Consequence | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Overcooking the chicken | Dry, tough chicken | Cook to 165°F, then let rest |
| Using low-quality ingredients | Unauthentic flavor and texture | Opt for fresh, high-quality ingredients |
Conclusion
Now you know the secrets of Panera Bread’s panera bread chicken salad recipe. It’s time to try it out in your kitchen. Follow the steps in this article to make the napa almond chicken salad just like Panera’s. Try different nuts or add dried fruit for your own twist.
The secret to Panera’s taste is in the chicken, dressing, and all the ingredients. With practice, you’ll make a panera bread chicken salad recipe that impresses everyone. Enjoy making it and relish every bite of your homemade salad!
How to Make Panera Bread’s Famous Chicken Salad
Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken breast
- 1/2 cup celery diced
- 1/2 cup grapes halved
- 1/4 cup almonds toasted
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon cider vinegar
Instructions
- Prepare Chicken: Cook the chicken breast until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Let it rest, then shred into bite-sized pieces.
- Mix Dressing: In a mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, honey, and cider vinegar. Stir until smooth.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the shredded chicken, celery, grapes, and toasted almonds.
- Add Dressing: Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and toss gently to combine.
- Season and Chill: Add salt and pepper to taste. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Variations: Try substituting Greek yogurt for mayonnaise to reduce fat content or add a unique tangy flavor.
- Meal Prep: Store the chicken salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Substitutions: Use walnuts or pecans instead of almonds, or add dried cranberries for a sweet twist.
Nutrition
FAQ
What are the key ingredients in Panera Bread’s chicken salad?
Panera Bread’s chicken salad has cooked and shredded chicken, mayonnaise, and Greek yogurt. It also includes celery, grapes, sliced almonds, and seasonings like salt, pepper, and lemon juice.
What type of chicken is best for the Panera Bread chicken salad?
For the best chicken salad, use poached or roasted chicken breasts. Make sure the chicken is cooked right and shredded into small pieces.
How do I make the signature dressing for the Panera Bread chicken salad?
The dressing is a creamy mix of mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, and seasonings. It’s key to get the flavors right and the texture just right.
What kitchen tools and equipment are needed to make the Panera Bread chicken salad?
You’ll need a mixing bowl, a spoon or spatula, and measuring cups and spoons. A food processor or shredder for the chicken is also useful. Optional tools include a salad spinner and airtight containers.
How can I achieve an authentic Panera Bread taste in my homemade chicken salad?
To get the real Panera Bread taste, use top-quality ingredients. Make sure the chicken is just right, and balance the dressing flavors. Paying attention to ingredient quality, texture, and flavor balance will make a big difference.
How long does the Panera Bread chicken salad keep in the refrigerator?
Store the chicken salad in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 2-3 months for longer storage.
What common mistakes should I avoid when making the Panera Bread chicken salad?
Avoid overcooking the chicken and using the wrong mayonnaise or yogurt. Make sure to balance the dressing flavors and chill the salad before serving. Following the recipe and focusing on texture and seasoning can help avoid mistakes.
I LOVE IT
I absolutely love Panera Bread’s Chicken Salad! It’s the perfect blend of fresh ingredients and delicious flavors. The chicken is always tender and well-seasoned, and the combination of crisp celery, crunchy pecans, and sweet grapes creates a perfect balance of textures and tastes. The creamy dressing ties everything together beautifully without being too heavy.
Whether I have it on a sandwich, with a side salad, or just by itself, it never disappoints. It’s a great option for a light yet satisfying meal. I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a refreshing and tasty chicken salad.
Source Links
- https://www.fromvalerieskitchen.com/napa-almond-chicken-salad-panera-copycat/ – Napa Almond Chicken Salad (Just like Panera!) | Valerie’s Kitchen