Panera Bread Chicken Salad Recipe: Make It Yourself in Minutes

If you’re a fan of Panera Bread Chicken Salad Recipe, you’re in for a treat. This copycat recipe captures the essence of their beloved dish. With tender chicken, a flavorful dressing, and the perfect blend of ingredients, you’ll be making this at home in no time.

Ingredients

Creating a delicious Panera Bread chicken salad at home starts with gathering the right ingredients. Here’s a detailed list of everything you’ll need.

Overview of Required Ingredients

To make this chicken salad, you’ll need fresh ingredients for the chicken, the dressing, and the assembly. Let’s break it down step by step.

Detailed List for Chicken

1. Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: 2 large breasts or about 1 pound.
2. Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon, for cooking the chicken.
3. Salt and Pepper: To taste, for seasoning the chicken.

Detailed List for Dressing

1. Mayonnaise: 1/2 cup, the base for the dressing.
2. Greek Yogurt: 1/4 cup, for a creamy texture and a tangy flavor.
3. Dijon Mustard: 1 tablespoon, for a bit of spice.
4. Honey: 1 teaspoon, to add a touch of sweetness.
5. Lemon Juice: 1 tablespoon, for acidity and freshness.
6. Salt and Pepper: To taste, for seasoning the dressing.

Additional Ingredients for Assembly

1. Celery: 2 stalks, finely chopped, for crunch.
2. Red Grapes: 1 cup, halved, for sweetness.
3. Almonds: 1/2 cup, sliced or slivered, for a nutty flavor and additional crunch.
4. Green Onions: 2, finely chopped, for a mild onion flavor.
5. Fresh Dill: 1 tablespoon, finely chopped, for an aromatic touch (optional).

Ingredient Preparation

1. Prepping the Chicken:

   • Rinse and pat dry the chicken breasts.
   • Season with salt and pepper on both sides.

2. Cooking the Chicken:

   • Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
   • Cook chicken breasts for 6-7 minutes on each side until fully cooked and juices run clear.
   • Remove from heat and let them cool before chopping into bite-sized pieces.

3. Chopping and Slicing:

   • Finely chop celery and green onions.
   • Halve the red grapes.
   • Slice or sliver the almonds if not pre-sliced.
   • Finely chop fresh dill, if using.

Preparing the Chicken

The secret to a great chicken salad lies in perfectly cooked chicken. Here’s a step-by-step guide to ensure your chicken is tender, juicy, and full of flavor.

Steps to Cook the Chicken Perfectly

1. Choose the Right Chicken:

   • Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for the best texture.
   • Ensure the chicken is fresh or properly thawed if using frozen.

2. Seasoning the Chicken:

   • Pat the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel.
   • Season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
   • Optionally, you can add a sprinkle of garlic powder or paprika for extra flavor.

3. Cooking Methods:

   • Skillet Method:

     • Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
     • Add the chicken breasts and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side.
     • Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer; it should read 165°F (74°C).
     • Remove from heat and let the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes before cutting.

   • Oven Method:

     • Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
     • Place the seasoned chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil.
     • Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
     • Let the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes before cutting.

   • Poaching Method:

     • Place the chicken breasts in a large pot and cover with water or chicken broth.
     • Add aromatics like a bay leaf, garlic cloves, and a few peppercorns for extra flavor.
     • Bring to a simmer over medium heat and cook for 15-20 minutes.
     • Check the internal temperature; it should reach 165°F (74°C).
     • Remove the chicken and let it cool before cutting.

4. Cutting the Chicken:

   • Once the chicken has rested, use a sharp knife to cut it into bite-sized pieces.
   • Aim for uniform pieces to ensure even distribution in your salad.

Tips for Tender and Juicy Chicken

1. Don’t Overcook:

   • Monitor the cooking time and internal temperature closely to avoid overcooking, which can make the chicken dry.

2. Resting Time:

   • Allowing the chicken to rest after cooking helps the juices redistribute, resulting in more tender meat.

3. Marinate (Optional):

   • For added flavor and tenderness, you can marinate the chicken for a few hours before cooking.
   • Use a simple marinade of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs.

4. Shredding (Alternative):

   • If you prefer shredded chicken, use two forks to pull the meat apart after it has cooled.
   • This method works well for a different texture in your salad.

With these steps and tips, you’ll have perfectly cooked chicken ready to be transformed into a delicious chicken salad. Taking the time to prepare the chicken properly ensures that your salad will have the best possible taste and texture, making it truly reminiscent of Panera Bread’s classic dish.

Making the Dressing

A flavorful dressing is what ties the chicken salad together, giving it that distinctive taste you love from Panera Bread. Here’s a detailed guide on how to make the perfect dressing for your chicken salad.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Gather Your Ingredients:

   • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
   • 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
   • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
   • 1 teaspoon honey
   • 1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
   • Salt and pepper to taste

2. Mixing the Base:

   • In a medium-sized bowl, combine the mayonnaise and Greek yogurt.
   • Stir until the mixture is smooth and well blended.

3. Adding Flavor Elements:

   • Add the Dijon mustard to the bowl.
   • Pour in the honey for a touch of sweetness.
   • Squeeze in the lemon juice to add a fresh, tangy kick.
   • Mix everything together until fully incorporated.

4. Seasoning:

   • Season the dressing with salt and pepper to taste.
   • Stir well and taste the dressing.
   • Adjust the seasoning if needed, adding more salt, pepper, or lemon juice according to your preference.

5. Optional Enhancements:

   • For a bit of extra flavor, you can add a teaspoon of finely chopped fresh herbs like dill or parsley.
   • A pinch of garlic powder can also enhance the taste if you prefer a garlicky note.

Tips for Achieving the Perfect Flavor

1. Balance the Ingredients:

   • The key to a great dressing is balancing the flavors of the creamy base, the tanginess of the lemon juice, and the sweetness of the honey.
   • Taste as you go and make small adjustments to achieve the perfect balance.

2. Fresh Lemon Juice:

   • Always use freshly squeezed lemon juice for the best flavor.
   • Bottled lemon juice can sometimes have a slightly bitter taste that may affect the overall flavor of the dressing.

3. High-Quality Ingredients:

   • Using high-quality mayonnaise and Greek yogurt will significantly impact the taste of your dressing.
   • Opt for brands you trust and like.

4. Chill the Dressing:

   • After making the dressing, let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
   • This allows the flavors to meld together and enhances the overall taste.

5. Consistency Adjustments:

   • If you prefer a thinner dressing, you can add a little bit of water or extra lemon juice to achieve your desired consistency.
   • For a thicker dressing, increase the amount of Greek yogurt.

Assembling the Chicken Salad

Now that your chicken is perfectly cooked and your dressing is flavorful, it’s time to bring everything together. Assembling the chicken salad is all about combining the ingredients in a way that ensures every bite is delicious and well-balanced.

Combining Chicken and Dressing

1. Gather Your Prepared Ingredients:

   • Cooked and chopped chicken
   • Prepared dressing
   • 2 stalks of finely chopped celery
   • 1 cup of halved red grapes
   • 1/2 cup of sliced or slivered almonds
   • 2 finely chopped green onions
   • 1 tablespoon of finely chopped fresh dill (optional)

2. Mix the Chicken and Dressing:

   • In a large mixing bowl, add the chopped chicken.
   • Pour the prepared dressing over the chicken.
   • Use a large spoon or spatula to gently mix the chicken and dressing until the chicken is evenly coated.

3. Add the Crunch and Sweetness:

   • Add the finely chopped celery to the bowl for crunch.
   • Toss in the halved red grapes to add a burst of sweetness.
   • Mix gently to distribute the celery and grapes evenly throughout the salad.

4. Incorporate the Nuts and Onions:

   • Add the sliced or slivered almonds for a nutty flavor and additional crunch.
   • Sprinkle in the finely chopped green onions for a mild onion flavor.
   • Stir gently to ensure all ingredients are well mixed.

5. Optional Fresh Herbs:

   • If using, add the finely chopped fresh dill.
   • Mix it in thoroughly for an aromatic touch.

Ensuring Balanced Flavors and Texture

1. Taste and Adjust:

   • Once everything is combined, taste the chicken salad.
   • Adjust the seasoning if needed by adding more salt, pepper, or a squeeze of lemon juice.
   • Ensure the flavors are balanced with a good mix of creamy, tangy, sweet, and savory notes.

2. Check the Texture:

   • The salad should have a creamy consistency without being overly wet or dry.
   • If it’s too dry, add a bit more dressing or a spoonful of Greek yogurt.
   • If it’s too wet, you can add a bit more chopped chicken or celery to balance it out.

3. Chill Before Serving:

   • For the best flavor, cover the chicken salad and let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
   • This allows the flavors to meld together and the salad to firm up slightly.

4. Presentation Tips:

   • When ready to serve, give the salad a gentle stir.
   • For an attractive presentation, you can garnish the top with a few extra almond slices, a sprig of fresh dill, or a few halved grapes.

Optional Additions and Variations

One of the best things about chicken salad is its versatility. You can easily customize it to suit your tastes or dietary preferences. Here are some ideas for optional additions and variations to make this Panera Bread chicken salad your own.

Substitutions for Ingredients

1. Mayonnaise Alternatives:

   • Greek Yogurt: Use all Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a lighter, tangier dressing.
   • Avocado: Mash a ripe avocado for a creamy, nutritious substitute.

2. Protein Alternatives:

   • Rotisserie Chicken: For a quick option, use store-bought rotisserie chicken instead of cooking your own.
   • Turkey: Substitute with turkey breast for a different twist.

3. Nuts and Seeds:

   • Pecans or Walnuts: Swap almonds for chopped pecans or walnuts for a different nutty flavor.
   • Sunflower Seeds: Use sunflower seeds for a nut-free option that still adds crunch.

4. Fruit Alternatives:

   • Apples: Diced apples add a sweet and tart element.
   • Dried Cranberries: For a touch of sweetness, add dried cranberries or raisins.

Variations to Customize Your Salad

1. Add Some Heat:

   • Jalapeños: Finely chop fresh jalapeños or add a dash of cayenne pepper to the dressing for some spice.
   • Hot Sauce: Mix in a few drops of your favorite hot sauce for an extra kick.

2. Herb Variations:

   • Cilantro: Use fresh cilantro instead of dill for a different herbal note.
   • Basil: Fresh basil can add a sweet, peppery flavor that pairs well with the other ingredients.

3. Veggie Boost:

   • Bell Peppers: Add finely chopped bell peppers for extra crunch and color.
   • Cucumber: Diced cucumber can add a refreshing crispness.

4. Cheese Additions:

   • Feta Cheese: Crumble feta cheese into the salad for a tangy, salty flavor.
   • Cheddar: Shredded cheddar can add a rich, creamy element.

5. Grains and Legumes:

   • Quinoa: Mix in cooked quinoa for added protein and texture.
   • Chickpeas: Add a can of drained and rinsed chickpeas for a hearty addition.

6. Dress it Up for a Sandwich:

   • Bread Choice: Use croissants, ciabatta, or whole grain bread.
   • Add Lettuce: A layer of crisp lettuce can add freshness and crunch.
   • Tomato Slices: Add juicy tomato slices for extra flavor and moisture.

7. Make it a Wrap:

   • Tortillas: Use large tortillas to make chicken salad wraps.
   • Additions: Include extra veggies like shredded carrots, spinach, or avocado slices.

Lighten it Up

If you’re looking to enjoy the flavors of Panera Bread’s chicken salad while keeping it lighter and healthier, there are several modifications you can make. These changes reduce calories and fat without sacrificing taste.

Tips for Making a Healthier Version

1. Use Greek Yogurt Instead of Mayonnaise:

   • Substitution: Replace all or part of the mayonnaise with non-fat Greek yogurt.
   • Benefits: Greek yogurt is high in protein and lower in fat compared to mayonnaise, adding a creamy texture without the extra calories.

2. Opt for Light Mayonnaise:

   • Substitution: Use light or reduced-fat mayonnaise instead of regular.
   • Benefits: This option significantly cuts down on the fat content while maintaining a similar flavor.

3. Increase the Veggies:

   • Addition: Add more chopped celery, bell peppers, cucumbers, or other low-calorie vegetables.
   • Benefits: Increasing the amount of vegetables not only adds nutrients but also provides extra volume and crunch without many calories.

4. Use Leaner Chicken:

   • Choice: Stick with skinless, boneless chicken breasts.
   • Benefits: Chicken breast is a lean source of protein, which is essential for a healthy diet.

5. Incorporate More Fresh Herbs:

   • Addition: Add more fresh herbs like parsley, cilantro, or basil.
   • Benefits: Herbs add flavor and aroma without any additional calories or fat.

6. Add Fruits for Natural Sweetness:

   • Addition: Increase the amount of red grapes or add other fruits like apples or pears.
   • Benefits: Fruits provide natural sweetness and additional fiber, which helps you feel full longer.

Low-Calorie Substitutions

1. Dressing Alternatives:

   • Vinaigrette: Use a light vinaigrette made from olive oil, vinegar, and a touch of honey instead of a creamy dressing.
   • Avocado: Replace some or all of the dressing with mashed avocado for a creamy, healthy fat alternative.

2. Nuts and Seeds:

   • Sunflower Seeds: Substitute almonds with sunflower seeds for a lower-calorie option.
   • Portion Control: Reduce the amount of nuts used, as they are calorie-dense.

3. Use Low-Fat Dairy:

   • Substitution: If you add cheese, opt for low-fat or part-skim varieties.
   • Benefits: This reduces the overall fat content while still providing a rich flavor.

4. Choose Whole Grains for Sandwiches:

   • Bread: Use whole grain bread or wraps instead of white bread or croissants.
   • Benefits: Whole grains are higher in fiber, which aids digestion and keeps you fuller longer.

5. Lighten the Sweetness:

   • Reduction: Reduce or eliminate added sweeteners like honey in the dressing.
   • Benefits: Cutting down on sugar reduces overall calorie intake.

Example Recipe for a Lightened-Up Chicken Salad

1. Ingredients:

   • 2 cups cooked and chopped chicken breast
   • 1/2 cup non-fat Greek yogurt
   • 1/4 cup light mayonnaise
   • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
   • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
   • 2 stalks celery, finely chopped
   • 1 cup red grapes, halved
   • 1/4 cup sliced almonds (or sunflower seeds)
   • 2 green onions, finely chopped
   • Salt and pepper to taste
   • Fresh herbs (parsley or dill), finely chopped

2. Instructions:

   • In a large bowl, combine Greek yogurt, light mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice.
   • Add the chopped chicken, celery, grapes, almonds (or sunflower seeds), green onions, and fresh herbs.
   • Mix until all ingredients are well-coated with the dressing.
   • Season with salt and pepper to taste.
   • Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Pro Tips for the Best Panera Bread Chicken Salad Recipe

Crafting the perfect chicken salad requires a few insider tips to elevate the flavor, texture, and overall appeal. Here are some expert tips to ensure your chicken salad is as delicious and satisfying as the one you love from Panera Bread.

Expert Advice for Perfecting Your Recipe

1. Use Fresh Ingredients:

   • Quality Matters: Always use the freshest ingredients available. Fresh chicken, crisp vegetables, and ripe fruits make a significant difference in flavor.
   • Pro Tip: Purchase ingredients the same day you plan to make the salad, if possible.

2. Cook Chicken to Perfection:

   • Tender and Juicy: Overcooked chicken can be dry and unappetizing. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
   • Pro Tip: Let the chicken rest for at least 5-10 minutes after cooking before chopping to retain its juices.

3. Balance the Flavors:

   • Sweet and Savory: Ensure a good balance of sweet (grapes, honey) and savory (chicken, mayonnaise, mustard) elements.
   • Pro Tip: Taste as you go and adjust the seasoning, adding salt, pepper, or lemon juice as needed.

4. Texture is Key:

   • Crunch and Creaminess: A good chicken salad has a mix of textures. The crunch of celery and almonds contrasts beautifully with the creamy dressing.
   • Pro Tip: Add the crunchy elements just before serving to keep them crisp.

5. Chill Before Serving:

   • Flavor Development: Allowing the salad to chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes helps the flavors meld together.
   • Pro Tip: If possible, prepare the salad a few hours ahead of time for an even better flavor profile.

6. Avoid Over-Mixing:

   • Gentle Mixing: Stir the ingredients together gently to avoid breaking down the chicken pieces or mashing the grapes.
   • Pro Tip: Use a large spoon or spatula to fold the ingredients together.

7. Customize to Taste:

   • Personal Touch: Don’t be afraid to tweak the recipe to your liking. Add more of your favorite ingredients or try new ones.
   • Pro Tip: Keep notes of your adjustments so you can replicate your perfect version in the future.

8. Use Fresh Herbs:

   • Flavor Boost: Fresh herbs like dill, parsley, or basil can elevate the salad with their vibrant flavors.
   • Pro Tip: Add herbs just before serving to maintain their fresh taste and color.

9. Proper Storage:

   • Keep it Fresh: Store any leftover chicken salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
   • Pro Tip: Consume within 3-4 days for the best quality and taste.

10. Serving Suggestions:

    • Versatility: Chicken salad can be enjoyed in various ways – as a sandwich, in a wrap, on top of greens, or with crackers.
    • Pro Tip: For a low-carb option, serve the chicken salad in lettuce wraps or on a bed of mixed greens.

11. Add a Citrus Zing:

    • Brighten Up: A splash of citrus juice or zest (lemon, lime, or orange) can brighten up the flavors.
    • Pro Tip: Add the zest to the dressing and a squeeze of juice to the salad right before serving for a fresh, tangy note.

12. Experiment with Dressings:

    • Flavor Variations: While the classic dressing is great, you can experiment with different types like a yogurt-based dressing or a light vinaigrette.
    • Pro Tip: Try mixing a small batch of an alternative dressing and add it to a portion of the salad to see if you like the variation before committing.

How Long Does Chicken Salad Last?

Proper storage is crucial for maintaining the freshness and safety of your chicken salad. Here’s a detailed guide on how long chicken salad lasts, along with tips on how to store it correctly.

Storage Tips and Shelf Life

1. Refrigeration:

   • Immediate Refrigeration: After preparing the chicken salad, store it in the refrigerator as soon as possible.
   • Airtight Container: Use an airtight container to keep the salad fresh and to prevent it from absorbing any odors from other foods in the fridge.
   • Pro Tip: Label the container with the date you made the salad to keep track of its freshness.

2. Shelf Life:

   • 3-4 Days: Chicken salad typically lasts 3 to 4 days in the refrigerator. Beyond this period, the quality and safety of the salad can diminish.
   • Pro Tip: If the salad has been sitting out at room temperature for more than 2 hours, discard it to avoid the risk of foodborne illness.

3. Signs of Spoilage:

   • Appearance: Look for changes in color, such as browning or graying of the chicken or vegetables.
   • Smell: If the chicken salad has a sour or off odor, it’s best to discard it.
   • Texture: A slimy or mushy texture indicates spoilage and should not be consumed.

4. Freezing Chicken Salad:

   • Not Recommended: Freezing chicken salad is generally not recommended as the mayonnaise or yogurt-based dressing can separate and the texture of the vegetables can become mushy.
   • Pro Tip: If you must freeze it, consider freezing the chicken separately and adding fresh vegetables and dressing after thawing.

5. Preparing Ahead:

   • Batch Cooking: If you want to prepare chicken salad ahead of time, consider making the components separately. Cook and store the chicken, chop the vegetables, and mix the dressing. Combine them just before serving for the best texture and flavor.
   • Pro Tip: Store each component in its own airtight container to maintain freshness.

6. Transporting Chicken Salad:

   • Cool Environment: If you’re taking chicken salad to a picnic or potluck, keep it cool in an insulated cooler with ice packs.
   • Pro Tip: Serve the chicken salad over a bed of ice to keep it cold during the event.

Additional Tips for Maintaining Freshness

1. Keep It Dry:

   • Vegetables: Ensure that vegetables like celery and grapes are dry before mixing them into the salad to prevent excess moisture, which can cause the salad to become watery.
   • Pro Tip: Use a salad spinner to remove excess water from chopped vegetables.

2. Fresh Dressing:

   • Separate Dressing: If you plan to store the salad for a few days, consider keeping the dressing separate and mixing it in just before serving. This helps maintain the texture of the ingredients.
   • Pro Tip: Store the dressing in a small airtight container in the fridge.

3. Use Fresh Ingredients:

   • Quality Counts: Use the freshest ingredients possible when making the chicken salad. Fresh ingredients not only taste better but also last longer.
   • Pro Tip: Shop for ingredients the same day you plan to make the salad for optimal freshness.

4. Cooling the Chicken:

   • Cool Before Mixing: Let the cooked chicken cool completely before mixing it with the other ingredients. Warm chicken can raise the temperature of the salad, potentially reducing its shelf life.
   • Pro Tip: Spread the cooked chicken on a baking sheet to cool quickly and evenly.

Serving Suggestions

Chicken salad is versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways. Here are some creative and delicious serving suggestions to help you make the most out of your Panera Bread-inspired chicken salad.

Best Ways to Enjoy Your Chicken Salad

1. Classic Sandwich:

   • Bread Choice: Use a hearty bread like whole grain, ciabatta, or a soft croissant.
   • Additions: Enhance your sandwich with fresh lettuce, tomato slices, and a slice of cheese.
   • Pro Tip: Toast the bread lightly for added texture and flavor.

2. Wraps:

   • Tortilla: Use a large flour or whole wheat tortilla.
   • Fillings: Add baby spinach, shredded carrots, and avocado slices for extra nutrition.
   • Pro Tip: Roll the wrap tightly and cut it in half for easy eating.

3. On a Bed of Greens:

   • Salad Base: Serve the chicken salad on a bed of mixed greens, arugula, or spinach.
   • Toppings: Add cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and red onion for a refreshing crunch.
   • Pro Tip: Drizzle with a light vinaigrette to complement the flavors.

4. Stuffed Avocados:

   • Avocado Halves: Scoop out a bit of the avocado flesh to create a larger cavity.
   • Fill: Spoon the chicken salad into the avocado halves.
   • Pro Tip: Sprinkle with a little paprika or fresh herbs for color and flavor.

5. Lettuce Wraps:

   • Lettuce Choice: Use large, sturdy leaves like Romaine or Bibb lettuce.
   • Fill: Place a generous amount of chicken salad in the center of each leaf.
   • Pro Tip: Add a few slivers of red bell pepper or carrot for added crunch.

6. Crackers and Veggies:

   • Dippers: Serve the chicken salad with an assortment of crackers, celery sticks, carrot sticks, and cucumber slices.
   • Pro Tip: This makes for a great appetizer or snack option.

7. Stuffed Tomatoes:

   • Tomato Preparation: Hollow out large tomatoes and spoon the chicken salad inside.
   • Pro Tip: Serve chilled for a refreshing, elegant presentation.

8. Pita Pockets:

   • Pita Bread: Cut pita bread in half and open the pockets.
   • Fill: Stuff the pockets with chicken salad and add shredded lettuce and diced cucumbers.
   • Pro Tip: Warm the pita bread slightly for a soft, pliable texture.

9. Baked Potato Topper:

   • Baked Potatoes: Bake or microwave large potatoes until tender.
   • Top: Slice open and fluff the potato, then top with a generous scoop of chicken salad.
   • Pro Tip: Sprinkle with shredded cheese and chives for extra flavor.

10. Melts:

    • Bread Choice: Use slices of sourdough or rye bread.
    • Cheese: Top the chicken salad with a slice of Swiss or provolone cheese.
    • Pro Tip: Broil in the oven until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Pairing Ideas and Meal Options

1. Soups:

   • Tomato Soup: Pair your chicken salad sandwich with a classic tomato soup for a comforting meal.
   • Pro Tip: Serve with a side of crusty bread for dipping.

2. Chips:

   • Kettle Chips: Serve alongside kettle-cooked potato chips for a crunchy contrast.
   • Pro Tip: Choose flavors that complement the salad, like sea salt or cracked pepper.

3. Fruit Salad:

   • Fresh Fruit: A light, refreshing fruit salad pairs well with the rich flavors of the chicken salad.
   • Pro Tip: Use seasonal fruits for the best flavor and freshness.

4. Pasta Salad:

   • Light Pasta Salad: A simple pasta salad with a light vinaigrette makes a great side dish.
   • Pro Tip: Include ingredients like cherry tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese.

5. Grilled Vegetables:

   • Assorted Veggies: Serve with a side of grilled vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus.
   • Pro Tip: Drizzle with a little balsamic glaze for added flavor.

6. Breadsticks or Rolls:

   • Soft Rolls: Freshly baked rolls or breadsticks make a great accompaniment.
   • Pro Tip: Warm the breadsticks and serve with a bit of butter or olive oil.

Nutrition Information

Understanding the nutritional content of your Panera Bread-inspired chicken salad can help you make informed dietary choices. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the nutritional information, along with tips on how to make it even healthier.

Detailed Nutritional Breakdown

The following nutritional values are approximate and can vary based on the exact ingredients and quantities used:

Per Serving (1 cup of chicken salad):

• Calories: 350
• Total Fat: 25g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 70mg
• Sodium: 400mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 10g
  • Dietary Fiber: 2g
  • Sugars: 6g
• Protein: 25g

Key Nutrients:

• Vitamin A: 6% of the Daily Value (DV)
• Vitamin C: 10% of the DV
• Calcium: 6% of the DV
• Iron: 8% of the DV

Components Breakdown

1. Chicken:

   • Protein Source: Chicken breast is a lean source of protein, contributing to muscle repair and growth.
   • Pro Tip: Use skinless, boneless chicken breasts to keep the fat content low.

2. Mayonnaise and Greek Yogurt:

   • Healthy Fats: Mayonnaise provides fats, some of which are healthier unsaturated fats.
   • Pro Tip: Substitute part of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt to reduce calories and increase protein.

3. Vegetables and Fruits:

   • Fiber and Vitamins: Celery, grapes, and green onions add fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
   • Pro Tip: Increase the proportion of vegetables to enhance the nutritional profile.

4. Nuts (Almonds):

   • Healthy Fats and Protein: Almonds add healthy monounsaturated fats, protein, and a bit of fiber.
   • Pro Tip: Use unsalted almonds to keep sodium levels in check.

Tips for a Healthier Chicken Salad

1. Reduce Caloric Content:

   • Light Mayo: Use light mayonnaise or replace half of it with Greek yogurt.
   • Portion Control: Be mindful of portion sizes to manage calorie intake.

2. Lower Fat Content:

   • Avocado: Replace some of the mayonnaise with mashed avocado for healthy fats.
   • Lean Chicken: Ensure you’re using lean chicken breast without skin.

3. Lower Sodium:

   • Seasoning: Use herbs and spices instead of extra salt for flavor.
   • Low-Sodium Ingredients: Choose low-sodium options for ingredients like mayonnaise and chicken broth (if used).

4. Increase Fiber:

   • Vegetables: Add more fiber-rich vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or cucumbers.
   • Whole Grains: Serve the chicken salad on whole grain bread or with a side of whole grain crackers.

5. Enhance Vitamins and Minerals:

   • Fresh Herbs: Incorporate fresh herbs like parsley or dill for additional vitamins.
   • Fruit Additions: Add other fruits like apple slices or dried cranberries for more vitamins and antioxidants.

6. Control Sugar:

   • Natural Sweetness: Use fresh fruits like grapes or apples for sweetness instead of added sugars.
   • Honey: If using honey in the dressing, keep the quantity minimal to control sugar content.

Customizing for Dietary Needs

1. Low-Carb Option:

   • Lettuce Wraps: Serve the chicken salad in lettuce wraps instead of bread.
   • Extra Veggies: Increase the amount of low-carb vegetables.

2. Gluten-Free Option:

   • Gluten-Free Bread: Use gluten-free bread or wraps.
   • No Croutons: Ensure all additional ingredients are gluten-free.

3. Dairy-Free Option:

   • Dairy-Free Yogurt: Use a dairy-free yogurt alternative like almond or coconut yogurt.
   • Avoid Cheese: Omit any cheese additions.

4. Vegan Option:

   • Vegan Mayo: Use vegan mayonnaise.
   • Chickpeas: Replace chicken with chickpeas for a plant-based protein source.

FAQS

Panera Bread Chicken Salad Recipe

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 4 minutes mins

Total Time 19 minutes mins

Course Main Course, Salad

Cuisine American

Servings 6

Ingredients

  

2 cups cooked and chopped chicken breast

1/2 cup non-fat Greek yogurt

1/4 cup light mayonnaise

1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

1 tablespoon lemon juice

2 stalks celery, finely chopped

1 cup red grapes, halved

1/4 cup sliced almonds (or sunflower seeds)

2 green onions, finely chopped

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh herbs (parsley or dill), finely chopped

Instructions

 

Gather Your Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon honey
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Mixing the Base:

• In a medium-sized bowl, combine the mayonnaise and Greek yogurt.
• Stir until the mixture is smooth and well blended.

Adding Flavor Elements:

• Add the Dijon mustard to the bowl.
• Pour in the honey for a touch of sweetness.
• Squeeze in the lemon juice to add a fresh, tangy kick.
• Mix everything together until fully incorporated.

Seasoning:

• Season the dressing with salt and pepper to taste.
• Stir well and taste the dressing.
• Adjust the seasoning if needed, adding more salt, pepper, or lemon juice according to your preference.

Optional Enhancements:

• For a bit of extra flavor, you can add a teaspoon of finely chopped fresh herbs like dill or parsley.
• A pinch of garlic powder can also enhance the taste if you prefer a garlicky note.

Keyword napa almond chicken salad, panera chicken salad