Chicken Salad Recipe Panera

Panera’s Napa Almond Chicken Salad is a fan favorite, known for its creamy texture, crunchy almonds, and flavorful chicken. Whether you’re looking to recreate this dish at home or simply want a fresh take on a classic, this recipe is perfect. In this article, we’ll guide you through the ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and tips to make a delicious copycat version. From making the dressing to serving ideas, keep reading to master this tasty, satisfying salad.

Introduction to Chicken Salad Recipe Panera

Panera’s Napa Almond Chicken Salad has become a beloved dish on their menu, offering a delightful balance of textures and flavors. It combines tender chicken, crunchy almonds, fresh greens, and a creamy dressing, making it a perfect choice for a light yet filling meal. The salad is not only delicious but also versatile—whether you enjoy it on its own, as a sandwich, or paired with a side, it’s sure to satisfy.

What makes this salad stand out is the combination of savory and slightly sweet ingredients, including grapes, almonds, and a tangy dressing. The recipe is simple yet satisfying, and with just a few key ingredients, you can recreate Panera’s famous Napa Almond Chicken Salad at home.

Ingredients Needed

To make a delicious homemade version of Panera’s Napa Almond Chicken Salad, you’ll need a few key ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need for the salad and the dressing:

For the Chicken Salad:

• Chicken Breast: Fresh, cooked chicken is the base of the salad. You can grill, bake, or poach the chicken, then shred or chop it into bite-sized pieces. Rotisserie chicken is also a quick and easy option.
• Almonds: Sliced or slivered almonds add a crunchy texture and a subtle nutty flavor. Toasting the almonds enhances their flavor.
• Red Grapes: These provide sweetness and contrast the savory elements. You can slice them or leave them whole, depending on your preference.
• Celery: Chopped celery adds a refreshing crunch and a bit of bite to the salad.
• Greens: Use mixed greens or spinach as the base for the salad. You can also opt for other leafy greens like arugula for a slightly peppery taste.

For the Dressing:

• Mayonnaise: The creamy base of the dressing. You can use full-fat or a lighter version depending on your preference.
• Greek Yogurt: Adds tanginess and a creamy texture, balancing out the richness of the mayonnaise.
• Honey: A touch of honey provides natural sweetness to complement the savory ingredients.
• Dijon Mustard: For a subtle kick and a bit of sharpness in the dressing.
• Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice brings a bright, citrusy zing that balances the creamy dressing.
• Salt and Pepper: These seasonings enhance the flavors and bring everything together.

How to Make the Chicken Salad

Making Panera’s Napa Almond Chicken Salad at home is easy and straightforward. Follow these simple steps to recreate the dish:

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

First, prepare the chicken. If you’re using fresh chicken breast, season it with salt and pepper and cook it by grilling, baking, or poaching. If grilling or baking, cook until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Once cooked, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before shredding or chopping it into bite-sized pieces. For convenience, you can use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken.

Step 2: Prepare the Salad Ingredients

While the chicken is cooling, prepare the other ingredients for the salad:

• Almonds: Toast the sliced or slivered almonds in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-4 minutes until golden brown. This step is optional but adds extra flavor.
• Grapes: Wash the red grapes, then slice them in half or leave them whole, depending on your preference.
• Celery: Chop the celery into thin slices for added crunch.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, honey, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Whisk everything together until smooth and well-combined. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed by adding more salt, pepper, or honey for sweetness.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, toasted almonds, grapes, celery, and mixed greens. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss everything together until the ingredients are well-coated with the dressing.

Step 5: Serve

Once everything is well mixed, the Napa Almond Chicken Salad is ready to be served. You can serve it immediately as a salad or use it as a filling for sandwiches. For an extra touch, garnish with a few extra almonds or fresh herbs like parsley for added flavor and color.

How to Make the Dressing

The dressing is a key component of Panera’s Napa Almond Chicken Salad, bringing everything together with its creamy and tangy flavor. Here’s how to make the perfect dressing for your salad:

Ingredients for the Dressing:

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise: This forms the creamy base of the dressing. You can use regular or light mayo, depending on your preference.
• 1/4 cup Greek yogurt: Adds tanginess and creaminess to balance the richness of the mayonnaise. Greek yogurt also brings in a slight thickness to the dressing.
• 1 tablespoon honey: Sweetens the dressing just enough to complement the savory ingredients like chicken and almonds.
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard: For a subtle kick and a bit of sharpness that helps balance the sweetness from the honey.
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice: Brightens the dressing with a citrusy zing. Fresh lemon juice is preferred over bottled for the best flavor.
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper: Season to taste. These basic seasonings help to bring out the other flavors in the dressing.

Instructions:

• Combine the Ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, add the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, honey, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice.
• Whisk Together: Use a whisk to blend the ingredients until smooth and creamy. Make sure the honey is fully incorporated into the mixture.
• Season: Taste the dressing and add salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed. The amount of salt and pepper will depend on your personal taste preferences, but start with a pinch of each and adjust from there.
• Adjust Consistency: If the dressing is too thick for your liking, you can thin it out with a small splash of water or more lemon juice to achieve the desired consistency.
• Chill (Optional): For best results, allow the dressing to sit in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes before using it. This gives the flavors time to meld and can enhance the overall taste.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about making a homemade version of Panera’s Napa Almond Chicken Salad is that you can easily customize it to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. Here are some variations and substitutions you can try to make the recipe your own:

Add Fruits

• Apple: For a crunchy and sweet addition, diced apples (like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp) can be added in place of grapes, offering a different flavor profile.
• Cranberries: Dried cranberries can replace grapes or be added alongside them for an extra burst of sweetness and a bit of tartness.
• Pineapple: If you prefer a tropical twist, small chunks of pineapple can give the salad a refreshing zing.

Use Different Nuts

• Walnuts: If you’re not a fan of almonds, walnuts are a great alternative. Their rich, slightly bitter flavor adds depth to the salad.
• Pecans: Toasted pecans offer a sweeter, buttery flavor, which can complement the chicken and dressing beautifully.
• Cashews: For a softer, creamier nut, cashews can add a unique texture and flavor.

Swap the Dressing

• Greek Yogurt-Only Dressing: If you prefer a lighter, tangier dressing, you can substitute the mayonnaise entirely with Greek yogurt. This will reduce the richness while maintaining creaminess.
• Vegan Dressing: For a dairy-free or vegan option, you can use vegan mayo and plant-based yogurt to recreate the creamy texture of the dressing.
• Lemon Vinaigrette: For a lighter, more acidic flavor, consider swapping the creamy dressing for a simple lemon vinaigrette made with olive oil, lemon juice, and Dijon mustard.

Add More Veggies

• Avocado: Sliced avocado adds creaminess and a mild, buttery flavor that pairs well with the chicken and almonds.
• Cucumber: For a refreshing crunch, add chopped cucumber. It will add texture without overpowering the other flavors.
• Red Onion: Thinly sliced red onion can provide a bit of sharpness and color to the salad, but it’s optional depending on your taste.

Make it a Meal

• Chicken Salad Sandwich: Instead of serving the salad on a bed of greens, make it a sandwich by spreading the chicken salad between two slices of your favorite bread, a croissant, or a whole-wheat wrap.
• Chicken Salad Wrap: Wrap the salad in a tortilla with some extra veggies for a quick and satisfying lunch or dinner.
• Add Quinoa or Rice: To make the salad heartier, you can add cooked quinoa or brown rice to the mix. This will provide more fiber and make the dish a complete meal.

Vegetarian Option

Tofu or Chickpeas:

For a vegetarian version, you can replace the chicken with cubed, pan-fried tofu or roasted chickpeas. Both options will absorb the flavors of the dressing and make a satisfying plant-based alternative.

Seasonings and Flavor Enhancements

• Herbs: Fresh herbs like parsley, basil, or cilantro can be added to the salad for extra flavor. You can also sprinkle some fresh dill or tarragon in the dressing for an aromatic kick.
• Spices: If you like a bit of heat, a dash of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika in the dressing or the salad itself can add a nice depth of flavor.

Tips for the Perfect Chicken Salad

To ensure your homemade Panera-inspired Napa Almond Chicken Salad is as delicious as possible, here are some helpful tips and tricks:

Choose the Right Chicken

• Fresh vs. Rotisserie Chicken: For the best flavor, freshly cooked chicken is ideal, but using rotisserie chicken can save you time while still delivering great taste. Just make sure to remove the skin and shred the meat.
• Shredded vs. Chopped: If you prefer a more traditional, bite-sized texture, chop your chicken into pieces. However, for a fluffier, more rustic feel, shred the chicken using two forks.
• Marinate the Chicken: For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in a simple mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper before cooking it. This adds depth to the chicken and enhances the overall taste of the salad.

Toast the Almonds

Toasting the almonds brings out their nutty flavor and adds an extra layer of crunch. Simply heat them in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 3-5 minutes until they turn golden brown. Be sure to watch them closely so they don’t burn.

Balance the Dressing

• Adjust the Sweetness and Tanginess: Taste the dressing before adding it to the salad and adjust the sweetness or tanginess to suit your preference. Add more honey for sweetness or a bit more lemon juice for extra tang.
• Thicker vs. Thinner Dressing: If you prefer a thicker dressing, use more mayonnaise or Greek yogurt. For a thinner consistency, add a bit of water, extra lemon juice, or even a tablespoon of olive oil.

Chill the Salad

After tossing the salad, refrigerate it for 15-30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together and gives the dressing time to coat the ingredients more evenly. It also helps the salad stay fresh and crisp.

Add Fresh Herbs for Extra Flavor

Fresh herbs like parsley, basil, or chives can elevate the flavor of the salad. Finely chop and sprinkle them over the salad or mix them into the dressing for an added burst of freshness.

Perfect the Texture

If you prefer extra crunch, consider adding more raw vegetables like chopped carrots, bell peppers, or cucumber. These ingredients will add freshness and crunch that complements the creamy dressing and tender chicken.

Texture Variety:

Experiment with adding ingredients that offer a variety of textures, such as crispy bacon bits or crunchy sunflower seeds.

Keep the Salad Fresh

• Assemble Just Before Serving: If you’re making this salad in advance, keep the dressing separate until just before serving to prevent the greens from wilting and the almonds from losing their crunch.
• Proper Storage: If you have leftover salad, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The chicken salad will stay fresh for up to 2-3 days, but keep the dressing separate if possible.

Make it a Complete Meal

For a more filling dish, serve your chicken salad with a side of warm bread, crackers, or even on a bed of cooked quinoa. It also makes a perfect topping for a simple green salad or as a wrap in a tortilla for a quick meal.

Mind the Seasoning

Be mindful of the salt in your dressing, especially if you’re using salted almonds or store-bought chicken. Taste as you go and adjust the seasoning to ensure it’s well-balanced.

Nutritional Information

Understanding the nutritional profile of your homemade Panera-inspired Napa Almond Chicken Salad can help you make informed choices about your meal. Here’s a breakdown of the key nutrients you can expect from a typical serving of this salad, along with some insights into how you can adjust the recipe to fit your dietary needs.

Nutritional Overview (Per Serving – Approx. 1 cup of salad):

• Calories: 350–450 calories (depending on portion size and ingredient choices)
• Protein: 25–30 grams (mainly from the chicken)
• Fat: 25–30 grams (mostly healthy fats from the almonds and dressing)
• Carbohydrates: 15–20 grams (from the grapes, dressing, and greens)
• Fiber: 3–5 grams (largely from the grapes, celery, and greens)
• Sugar: 10–15 grams (naturally occurring sugars from the grapes and honey in the dressing)
• Sodium: 400–500 mg (varies depending on the salt used in dressing and the chicken)

Key Nutrients in the Ingredients:

• Chicken: A lean source of protein that supports muscle building and repair. It also provides essential vitamins and minerals like B vitamins (especially niacin and B6), phosphorus, and selenium.
• Almonds: High in healthy fats (monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats), almonds are a good source of vitamin E, magnesium, and fiber. They also provide antioxidants that help combat oxidative stress.
• Greek Yogurt: Packed with probiotics for gut health, Greek yogurt is also a good source of calcium, protein, and vitamin B12.
• Mayonnaise: While it adds creaminess, mayonnaise can be high in calories and fat. Opting for a light or reduced-fat mayo can reduce the overall fat content.
• Grapes: A source of natural sugar, fiber, and antioxidants like vitamins C and K, grapes help balance the flavors of the salad while adding a burst of sweetness and hydration.
• Celery and Greens: Low in calories but high in fiber and water content, these ingredients provide bulk to the salad without adding many calories. They also contain beneficial vitamins and minerals like vitamin K and folate.

Ways to Modify for Different Diets:

• Low-Carb or Keto: To make this salad more suitable for a low-carb or keto diet, you can omit the grapes or use a smaller quantity. Consider replacing the honey in the dressing with a sugar substitute like stevia or erythritol.
• Low-Fat: To reduce the fat content, use a lighter dressing or swap the mayonnaise for low-fat Greek yogurt. You could also reduce the amount of almonds or use a lower-fat nut option like slivered cashews.
• Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, so you don’t need to make any changes if you’re following a gluten-free diet.
• Dairy-Free/Vegan: To make the salad dairy-free, use a plant-based yogurt (like coconut or almond yogurt) and swap the mayonnaise for a vegan version. Ensure that the dressing and any other ingredients are free of animal-based products.
• Higher Protein: For a higher-protein version, you can add extra chicken or even toss in some boiled eggs. Adding a side of quinoa or chickpeas can further boost the protein content.

Serving Size Considerations:

A standard serving of this salad is about 1 cup, which provides a well-balanced mix of protein, healthy fats, and fiber. However, depending on your dietary needs, you can adjust the portion sizes accordingly. If you’re looking for a lighter meal, a smaller portion is perfect. For a more substantial lunch or dinner, you might want to serve it with a side of whole-grain bread, crackers, or a larger portion of salad.

How to Store Leftover Chicken Salad

If you have leftover Napa Almond Chicken Salad, it’s important to store it properly to maintain its freshness and flavor. Here’s how to ensure your salad stays fresh for the next meal:

Storage Tips:

• Use an Airtight Container: To prevent the salad from drying out or absorbing odors from the fridge, store it in an airtight container. This helps preserve the texture of the chicken and dressing while keeping it fresh for a longer period.
• Keep Dressing Separate (Optional): If possible, store the dressing separately from the salad ingredients. This will prevent the greens from wilting and the almonds from losing their crunch. You can toss the salad with the dressing just before serving.
• Refrigeration: Store your chicken salad in the refrigerator immediately after serving or preparing. It’s important to refrigerate it within two hours to avoid any risk of bacteria growth.
• Proper Serving Size: Only take out as much as you plan to eat in one sitting to prevent repeated exposure to air, which can cause the salad to spoil more quickly. Reheat or reassemble just the portion you want to eat.

How Long Does it Last?:

• Chicken Salad with Dressing: The salad should stay fresh for about 2-3 days in the fridge when stored properly. After this, the ingredients may start to lose their texture, and the salad can become soggy.
• Chicken Salad Without Dressing: If you store the chicken and salad ingredients without the dressing, it can last a bit longer—up to 4 days. The dressing can be added fresh when you’re ready to serve.
• Dressing: Homemade dressing can be stored separately in a sealed container for up to 1 week in the refrigerator.

How to Revive Leftovers:

If the salad has been sitting for a while and has lost some of its freshness, you can revive it by adding a few extra fresh ingredients. Try adding more almonds, grapes, or even fresh greens to give it a fresh boost. If the dressing has thickened, you can thin it out with a small amount of lemon juice or water and whisk it until smooth again.

Freezing Leftovers:

While it’s not recommended to freeze the salad as a whole, you can freeze cooked chicken if you plan to make the salad again later. Just portion out the cooked chicken, place it in an airtight container or freezer bag, and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to make the salad again, simply thaw the chicken in the fridge overnight, and proceed with assembling the salad.

What to Serve With Chicken Salad

While Napa Almond Chicken Salad is a complete and satisfying dish on its own, pairing it with the right sides can elevate your meal even further. Here are some great options for what to serve with your chicken salad:

Fresh Bread or Rolls:

• Crusty Bread: A slice of crusty baguette, ciabatta, or sourdough pairs wonderfully with chicken salad. The crunchy exterior and soft interior provide a nice contrast to the creamy salad.
• Dinner Rolls: Soft, fluffy dinner rolls are a great accompaniment for scooping up the chicken salad if you’re serving it on a plate.
• Whole-Grain Bread: For a healthier option, whole-grain or multigrain bread offers fiber and adds a nutty flavor that complements the richness of the salad.

Crackers or Chips:

• Crackers: Serve your chicken salad with a variety of crackers, such as water crackers, whole wheat crackers, or multigrain crackers. They add crunch and can be used to scoop up the salad, especially if serving it as a dip.
• Pita Chips: Pita chips offer a sturdy, crunchy option that pairs well with the creaminess of the salad.
• Potato Chips: For a classic pairing, serve the salad with some salty, crispy potato chips. The contrast of textures is satisfying.

Fresh Salad Greens:

• Mixed Greens: If you’re looking for more vegetables, a side salad made with mixed greens, arugula, or spinach works perfectly. Toss with a light vinaigrette to complement the richness of the chicken salad.
• Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad, with its crisp romaine lettuce, parmesan, and tangy dressing, pairs well with the creamy Napa Almond Chicken Salad.
• Coleslaw: A tangy, crunchy coleslaw can also be a great side to balance the richness of the chicken salad with its vinegar-based dressing.

Fruit:

• Fresh Fruit: A light fruit salad made from seasonal fruits like berries, citrus, or melon adds a refreshing contrast to the savory chicken salad. The natural sweetness of the fruit pairs well with the salty almonds and tangy dressing.
• Citrus Slices: Serve citrus fruits like orange or grapefruit slices as a palate cleanser between bites of the chicken salad. The bright acidity helps refresh the taste buds.

Roasted Vegetables:

• Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes roasted with a drizzle of olive oil and a pinch of cinnamon bring a touch of sweetness that complements the almonds in the salad.
• Roasted Carrots or Brussels Sprouts: Caramelized, roasted vegetables like carrots or Brussels sprouts can provide a hearty side with a bit of sweetness and savory depth.
• Grilled Vegetables: A mix of grilled vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus works well with the lightness of the chicken salad.

Soup:

• Tomato Soup: A comforting bowl of tomato soup is a classic side that pairs beautifully with chicken salad, especially if you serve it as a sandwich.
• Vegetable Soup: A simple vegetable or minestrone soup, full of seasonal veggies and herbs, offers a light and nutritious accompaniment.

Chips and Dips:

• Guacamole: If you’re looking for something more savory, guacamole can pair wonderfully with the chicken salad, adding a creamy, zesty flavor.
• Hummus: Serve your chicken salad with a side of hummus, offering a smooth texture and complementary flavors. You could even use the hummus as a spread on your bread or crackers.

Pickles or Olives:

• Pickled Vegetables: Pickles or pickled vegetables like cucumbers or radishes can add a crunchy, tangy bite to the meal, which contrasts nicely with the richness of the salad.
• Olives: Serve a small bowl of olives for a Mediterranean touch. Their salty and briny flavor works well with the creamy chicken salad.

Beverage Pairings:

• Iced Tea: A cold glass of iced tea, either sweetened or unsweetened, is a refreshing drink to pair with your chicken salad, especially in warmer months.
• Lemonade: Freshly squeezed lemonade, with its tartness and sweetness, can also complement the rich and tangy flavors of the salad.
• White Wine: If you’re enjoying the salad with a more formal meal, a light white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay pairs beautifully with chicken salad.

Light Desserts:

• Fruit Sorbet: To finish your meal on a sweet and refreshing note, consider serving a light fruit sorbet, such as lemon or raspberry.
• Lemon Bars: For a tangy and sweet treat, serve lemon bars with a crisp crust and creamy lemon filling. They will complement the flavors of the chicken salad and offer a perfect ending to your meal.
• Greek Yogurt with Honey: For a simple yet satisfying dessert, serve a small bowl of Greek yogurt drizzled with honey and topped with sliced almonds for added texture.

Chicken Salad Recipe Panera

Discover a delicious and easy-to-make chicken salad recipe inspired by Panera. Perfect for a light, healthy meal, this recipe combines fresh ingredients and great flavor!

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 4 minutes mins

Total Time 19 minutes mins

Course Breakfast, Main Course

Cuisine American

Servings 4

Ingredients

  

• ½ cup sliced almonds
• 3 heaping cups fully cooked chicken breast chopped (I used rotisserie chicken)
• ½ cup halved or quartered seedless red grapes
• ⅓ cup diced celery

Dressing:

• ¾ cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice from 1 lemon
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
• ½ teaspoon dry ground mustard
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon dried crushed rosemary
• ½ teaspoon fine ground sea salt or to taste
• ¼ teaspoon dried basil
• ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper or to taste

For the Rest:

• 12 slices sourdough sandwich bread
• 2 small tomatoes sliced
• green leaf lettuce

Instructions

 

• Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
• Place the almonds on a small baking sheet and transfer to the oven for 3 to 4 minutes, or until lightly golden brown. Remove from oven and set aside to cool.
• Add chicken, grapes, and celery to a large mixing bowl.
• In a separate small bowl combine the dressing ingredients. Pour the dressing over the top of the chicken mixture and mix to incorporate the dressing throughout. Add the cooled almonds and mix lightly to combine.
• Divide the mixture between the bread and top with tomato and green leaf lettuce.

Keyword chicken salad, chicken salad recipe, Chicken Salad Recipe Panera