Panera Bread chicken salad is a popular choice for those seeking a delicious, hearty meal. The dish typically features tender chicken, crisp greens, fresh vegetables, and a flavorful dressing that comes together to create a satisfying experience. This combination not only makes for a tasty option but also provides a nutritious balance.
Recreating this salad at home is simple and rewarding. By following a few straightforward preparation steps, anyone can enjoy this café favorite without having to leave their kitchen. With the right ingredients and techniques, it becomes easy to enjoy a fresh and flavorful chicken salad.
Whether for lunch or a light dinner, this chicken salad can be customized to suit various tastes. By adding different ingredients or adjusting the dressing, it can cater to individual preferences while still retaining its essence.
Overview of Panera Bread Chicken Salad
Panera Bread’s chicken salad is a staple menu item known for its fresh ingredients and balanced flavors. The dish’s appeal stems from its origins and key flavor components, which together create a satisfying experience.
Origins and Popularity
The chicken salad at Panera Bread has become a beloved choice since its introduction. It reflects the company’s commitment to fresh, high-quality ingredients.
Originally developed as a healthy option, it quickly gained popularity among customers seeking nutritious meals. Seasonal variations often feature new ingredients, keeping the dish fresh and exciting.
Panera’s chicken salad can be enjoyed in various forms, including on its own, on a bed of greens, or as a sandwich. Its versatility has contributed to its status as a favorite among the customers.
Key Flavor Components
The flavor profile of Panera Bread’s chicken salad is rich and satisfying. Key ingredients include:
- Chicken: The use of tender, white meat chicken provides a hearty base.
- Celery: Adds crunch and freshness.
- Grapes: Contributes a hint of sweetness, balancing savory elements.
- Mayonnaise: Creamy texture enhances flavor and binds the ingredients.
Herbs and spices, often including salt and pepper, elevate the taste. The combination of these components results in a dish that is both flavorful and satisfying, making it a popular choice for lunch or a light dinner.
Ingredients for Panera Bread chicken salad
The chicken salad from Panera Bread features a blend of fresh ingredients that create its signature flavor. Each component plays a vital role in its overall taste and texture.
Chicken Selection
Choosing the right chicken is crucial. Boneless, skinless chicken breast is commonly used for its lean quality. The chicken is often poached or grilled to retain moisture and flavor.
It’s important to season the chicken before cooking to enhance its natural taste. After cooking, the chicken should be cubed or shredded. This technique allows for more flavor absorption when mixed with other ingredients.
Fresh Vegetables and Greens
Freshness is key when selecting vegetables and greens. Ingredients like celery, red onion, and bell peppers add crunch and a burst of flavor.
Leafy greens such as spring mix or romaine lettuce serve as a base, contributing nutrients and a fresh taste.
Careful chopping ensures that each bite delivers a consistent texture and flavor. Using colorful vegetables can enhance the dish’s visual appeal as well.
Herbs and Seasonings
Herbs and seasonings elevate the chicken salad. Dill, parsley, and chives are popular choices, bringing a fragrant taste that complements the chicken.
Salt and pepper are fundamental, enabling all flavors to stand out.
Some might include garlic powder or onion powder for depth. The right balance of herbs and seasonings is essential for achieving the desired flavor profile.
Dressing Choices
The dressing acts as a binding agent for the salad. Mayonnaise is often the base, creating creaminess and richness. Variations may include Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
Additions like lemon juice or vinegar provide acidity, helping to balance flavors.
Some might incorporate mustard or honey to enhance the dressing further. The dressing should coat the salad evenly, ensuring each ingredient is flavorful.
Bread Varieties
Bread serves as a vehicle for the chicken salad. Options include whole grain, sourdough, or baguette. The choice of bread can affect the overall experience.
Whole grain provides nutty flavors and added fiber. In contrast, sourdough offers a tangy taste.
The bread should be sturdy enough to hold the salad without falling apart. Toasting the bread can also add an appealing crunch.
Preparation Steps
This section outlines the essential steps to prepare Panera Bread’s chicken salad. Each part focuses on precise techniques crucial for achieving optimal flavor and texture.
Cooking the Chicken
To begin, gather boneless, skinless chicken breasts, typically about one pound. First, season the chicken with salt, pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil for added flavor. Heat a skillet over medium heat and add the chicken, cooking for approximately 6-7 minutes on each side until fully cooked and the internal temperature reaches 165°F. For added moisture, consider covering the skillet while the chicken cooks. Once done, remove the chicken and let it rest for a few minutes. This allows juices to redistribute, making for tender meat. Chop or shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces after it cools.
Chopping Vegetables
While the chicken cooks, prepare the vegetables. Common choices include celery, red onion, and green onions, which add crunch and flavor. Start by washing and peeling as necessary. Dice the celery into small, even pieces to ensure consistent texture throughout the salad. Similarly, chop the red onion finely to prevent overpowering the dish. Green onions can be sliced thinly, utilizing both the white and green parts for added vibrancy. This combination enhances the salad’s overall taste. Set the chopped vegetables aside until ready to mix.
Mixing the Panera Bread chicken salad
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken and chopped vegetables. Add mayonnaise to create a creamy base; typically, about half a cup suffices for this amount of chicken. For extra flavor, season with Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to taste. Stir the mixture thoroughly to ensure all ingredients are well incorporated. Adjust the quantities to achieve the desired creaminess and flavor balance. At this stage, additional ingredients like grapes or pecans can be added for variety, making the salad more interesting. Taste and adjust seasonings as necessary before moving on.
Assembling the Sandwich
To assemble the sandwich, select a sturdy bread such as sourdough or whole grain, which holds up well to the filling. Start by toasting the bread lightly, if preferred, to enhance texture. Spread a generous amount of the chicken salad mixture onto one slice of bread, ensuring an even layer. Top with fresh greens, like leaf lettuce or spinach, for added nutrition and crunch. Place another slice of bread on top to complete the sandwich. For presentation, slice the sandwich diagonally and serve immediately. This ensures freshness and maintains crispness.
Serving Suggestions
Enhancing the enjoyment of Panera Bread’s chicken salad can be achieved through strategic accompaniments and thoughtful plating techniques. Carefully selected sides and presentation can elevate the dining experience.
Accompaniments
Pairing the chicken salad with complementary dishes can enhance flavors and textures. Ideal accompaniments include:
- Fresh Breads: A crusty baguette or soft focaccia can balance the salad’s textures.
- Fruits: Slices of apple or fresh berries provide a sweet contrast.
- Vegetables: Crisp cucumber or cherry tomatoes add freshness.
Consider adding a light vinaigrette on the side for extra flavor. A mixed green salad dressed with a simple lemon vinaigrette also complements chicken salad well. Other options include:
- Chips: Sweet potato or regular chips can offer a satisfying crunch.
- Pickles: A side of dill pickles adds tanginess.
These choices not only provide variety but also cater to different taste preferences.
Plating Techniques
The visual appeal of a dish can significantly impact the dining experience. When plating chicken salad, focus on color and arrangement.
Start with a base of greens, such as spinach or arugula, to add a pop of color. Place a generous scoop of chicken salad in the center.
Garnishes like chopped herbs or a sprinkle of paprika can enhance presentation.
Using a white plate contrasts well with the vibrant ingredients. For added elegance, consider:
- Layering: Arrange the salad on top of sliced cucumbers.
- Mounds: Instead of a single scoop, create small mounds for dimension.
These techniques not only highlight the dish but also invite the diner to enjoy the meal visually before tasting.
Nutritional Information
Panera Bread’s chicken salad offers a balanced option for those seeking protein-rich meals. The nutritional profile varies based on the specific recipe used, including ingredients and portion sizes.
A standard serving of chicken salad contains approximately:
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 |
| Protein | 30g |
| Total Fat | 18g |
| Saturated Fat | 3.5g |
| Carbohydrates | 10g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sugars | 3g |
| Sodium | 700mg |
The salad includes ingredients like chicken breast, mayonnaise, and a variety of vegetables.
It’s important to note that calorie content can vary significantly. Variations may include different dressings or add-ins, which can alter both calorie and fat content.
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Panera Bread Chicken Salad
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Panera Bread Chicken Salad Recipe: This easy-to-make chicken salad features tender chicken breast, celery, red onions, grapes, and a creamy mayonnaise dressing with Dijon mustard and fresh herbs. Perfect for a sandwich or served on greens, it’s a delicious and nutritious option for lunch or dinner. Customize with nuts or additional vegetables for extra crunch and flavor.
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup celery, finely diced
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup green onions, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup seedless grapes, halved (optional for sweetness)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped (or parsley/chives as an alternative)
- 1/2 cup pecans or walnuts, chopped (optional for crunch)
Instructions
- Cook the Chicken:
- Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil.
- Heat a skillet over medium heat. Cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side until fully cooked and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before chopping or shredding it into bite-sized pieces.
- Prepare the Vegetables:
- Wash and prepare the celery, red onion, and green onions. Dice the celery into small, even pieces, finely chop the red onion, and slice the green onions thinly.
- If using grapes, halve them.
- Mix the Salad:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, diced celery, red onion, green onions, and grapes.
- Add mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and herbs (dill, parsley, or chives).
- Stir well to combine all ingredients. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
- If using nuts, fold them in at this stage.
Notes
For a lighter version of this Panera Bread Chicken Salad, you can substitute half the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt. You can also experiment by adding different herbs, fruits, or nuts to customize the flavor to your liking.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 15
- Category: Chicken Salad
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 3.5g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g