Recipe for Panera Chicken Salad

If you’ve ever enjoyed the fresh and flavorful Panera Chicken Salad, you know just how satisfying it is. The crunchy vegetables, tender chicken, and creamy dressing come together perfectly to create a meal that’s both refreshing and filling. But what if you could make this delightful dish at home? You can, and it’s easier than you might think! In this article, you’ll learn how to recreate this Panera classic with a homemade version that’s just as delicious—and you’ll enjoy it whenever you want, without leaving the house.

Why This Recipe for Panera Chicken Salad Is a Must-Try

Panera’s Chicken Salad has earned its place as a favorite for many, and for good reason. The combination of juicy chicken, crisp vegetables, and a tangy dressing is hard to beat. What’s even better? Making it yourself gives you complete control over the ingredients, ensuring that everything is fresh and tailored to your taste. Not to mention, this homemade version is budget-friendly and can easily be customized.

Here’s why this recipe is a must-try:

• Fresh Ingredients: When you make this chicken salad at home, you’re using the freshest ingredients possible. You can select your favorite vegetables and adjust the dressing to suit your preferences.
• Customization: Want to add a bit more crunch? Try adding nuts or seeds. Looking for a sweeter twist? Add a handful of dried cranberries or apple slices.
• Healthier Option: By making your chicken salad, you can choose healthier ingredients, such as low-fat mayonnaise or Greek yogurt. You can modify the serving sizes to align with your specific dietary requirements.
• Cost-Effective: Panera’s chicken salad can be a bit pricey when bought out, but this recipe is much more affordable, and you can make a large batch to last for several meals.

What You’ll Need for the Best Panera Chicken Salad

To get started on making your Panera-inspired chicken salad, you’ll need to gather a few simple ingredients. Don’t worry; nothing on this list is too complicated to find. These ingredients are likely to be staples in your kitchen already, and if not, they are easy to grab from the store.

Here’s what you’ll need:

Table: Panera Chicken Salad Ingredients

Ingredient	Quantity	Notes/Alternative
Chicken breast (cooked)	2 cups	Shredded or diced, cooked (grilled, baked)
Celery	1 stalk	Diced
Red grapes	1 cup	Halved (can substitute with apples)
Mayonnaise	1/2 cup	Use light mayo for a healthier version
Dijon mustard	1 tbsp
Lemon juice	1 tbsp	Freshly squeezed
Salt & pepper	To taste

Now that you’ve gathered your ingredients, it’s time to dive into the cooking process. Making this salad is quick and easy—no culinary skills are required!

How to Make Panera Chicken Salad at Home

Making your chicken salad is simple, and once you taste the results, you’ll be glad you did. Here’s how to make your own delicious Panera Chicken Salad in just a few easy steps:

H3: Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken:
2. Start by cooking your chicken breast. You can grill, bake, or boil it, depending on your preference. Once it’s cooked, allow it to cool down, then shred or dice it into small, bite-sized pieces. If you’re in a hurry, rotisserie chicken is an excellent shortcut and will still work beautifully for this recipe.
3. Chop Vegetables and Fruits:
4. Next, chop the celery into small pieces and halve the red grapes. You can substitute the grapes with apples if you prefer a more tart flavor. This will give your chicken salad a nice balance of sweet and savory.
5. Mix the Dressing:
6. In another bowl, mix the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Whisk everything together until it’s smooth and creamy. If you’re looking for a lighter version, Greek yogurt is a great substitute for mayonnaise. This swap will give your salad a creamy texture while cutting down on calories.
7. Combine the Salad:
8. In a large bowl, combine your shredded chicken, chopped celery, and halved grapes. Pour the dressing over the mixture and stir until everything is coated evenly. The dressing should be thick and creamy, ensuring that each bite is flavorful.
9. Chill the Salad:
10. For the best results, refrigerate your chicken salad for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together, giving you a deliciously refreshing dish. However, if you’re in a rush, you can enjoy it immediately—just keep in mind that the flavor improves after chilling.

Tips for Making the Perfect Panera Chicken Salad

Although this recipe is straightforward, there are a few tips and tricks you can use to make your chicken salad even more delicious:

• Add Toasted Almonds for Extra Crunch: Toasted almonds give a wonderful crunch to your chicken salad. Feel free to add them for an extra texture contrast.
• Experiment with Herbs: Fresh herbs like parsley or tarragon can elevate the flavor of your chicken salad. These herbs add a burst of freshness that balances the richness of the dressing.
• Sweeten it Up: If you love a bit of sweetness in your salads, add some dried cranberries or chopped apples. These additions give a delightful contrast to the savory chicken and creamy dressing.
• Switch Up the Veggies: While celery is classic, you can also add ingredients like cucumbers, red bell peppers, or carrots for extra color and crunch.

Nutritional Information for Panera Chicken Salad

If you’re curious about the nutritional content of this homemade chicken salad, here’s a basic breakdown:

Table: Nutritional Information for Panera Chicken Salad

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	350
Protein	28g
Fat	22g
Carbs	8g
Fiber	2g

This chicken salad is a well-balanced meal that offers plenty of protein and healthy fats, with fewer carbs than many other lunch options. If you’re watching your calorie intake, you can further reduce the fat by using a light version of mayonnaise or Greek yogurt.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Panera Chicken Salad

Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking my own?

Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a great option and saves you time. Simply shred the meat, and you’re ready to go. It adds a wonderful flavor to the salad without any extra effort.

How long does Panera Chicken Salad last in the fridge?

If stored properly in an airtight container, this chicken salad will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the fridge. However, for the best taste and texture, try to enjoy it within 1-2 days.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, this salad actually tastes even better after being refrigerated for a few hours or overnight. The flavors have a chance to meld together, making it a great make-ahead option for busy days.

Can I substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt?

Definitely! Greek yogurt is a healthier alternative to mayonnaise and will give your chicken salad the same creamy texture. Plus, it adds a bit of tang, which complements the other ingredients beautifully.

Now that you’ve learned how to make your own Panera Chicken Salad at home, it’s time to enjoy this refreshing, healthy, and satisfying meal whenever you like. This recipe is simple, quick, and packed with delicious flavors that will keep you coming back for more. Whether you’re enjoying it for lunch, dinner, or as a light snack, it’s a versatile dish that fits into any meal plan.

Take the time to make this recipe today, and feel free to experiment with ingredients to make it your own. Don’t forget to share your results with us in the comments—whether you added a unique twist or kept it simple, we’d love to hear about your delicious creation!