Panera Chicken Salad Recipe

The first time I tasted Panera’s chicken salad at the restaurant, I couldn’t stop thinking about it. The blend of flavors and textures was so perfect that I knew I had to try making it at home. The crunch of almonds, the sweetness of juicy red grapes, and the creamy dressing felt like pure magic on my plate.

I later found out this salad is inspired by Napa Valley’s love for fresh, wholesome ingredients, and it’s no surprise why it’s such a favorite. 

Whether I pile it on a sandwich, toss it on some greens, or just eat it straight from the bowl, it never disappoints. In this guide, I’ll share my step-by-step process, tips I’ve learned along the way, and some fun twists to make it your own. Let’s bring that restaurant magic right into your kitchen!

• Prep Time10 minutes
• Cook Time25 minutes 
• Total Time35 minutes
• 4 Servings 

For me, this recipe is more than just delicious—it’s a mix of flavor, nutrition, and convenience. With protein-packed chicken, crispy celery, and heart-healthy almonds, it’s a meal that’s as good for you as it is satisfying. It’s also my go-to for using up leftover chicken in the tastiest way possible.

Before getting into its ingredients, preparation guide or something else let’s see how I experienced it so far. I’ve always loved how chicken salad can vary across the world, with different cultures adding their own special touch. Some mix in fruits like grapes or apples, while others go for crunchy nuts or fresh herbs. 

Equipments I Recommend

When I made this chicken salad, I found the right tools made it so much easier. Here’s what you’ll need to make it well

• Mixing Bowl
• Measuring Cups
• Cutting Board
• Sharp Knife
• Spoon or Spatula
• Optional: Serving and Storage Bowls.

Ingredients Used In 

Let’s get into its Ingredients part, make sure the mentioned quantity of all of them is for FOUR servings, add or subtract according to your interest;

Step By Step Guide For Preparation

I, follow these steps to make it prepared to get a good taste, 

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Place the chicken breasts on a cutting board, cover with plastic wrap, and gently pound with a mallet or frying pan to 1/2 inch thickness.

Season both sides with garlic and onion powder. Boil in a saucepan with enough water to cover for 10 minutes or until cooked through. Let it cool down.

Step 2: Chop Ingredients

Chop the cooled chicken and celery into small pieces. Set aside in a bowl.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sugar, pepper, and lemon juice until smooth. Ensure the sugar dissolves completely.

Step 4: Combine

Mix the mayo dressing with the chopped chicken and celery.

Step 5: Assemble the Sandwich

Place lettuce, tomato, and red onion on a slice of bread. Top with the chicken salad and add another slice of bread to close.

Step 6: Serve

Serve with potato chips and pickles, or your favorite soup on the side.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

A few common mistakes can affect your chicken salad, such as overcooking the chicken, which can make it dry and rubbery. To avoid this, boil the chicken just until it’s fully cooked, around 10 minutes.

Another issue is under-seasoning, so don’t skimp on the garlic, onion powder, or seasoning mix. Lastly, using the wrong chicken cut can make a difference in texture—boneless, skinless breasts work best, and don’t forget to chop the ingredients evenly for a perfect bite every time.

What to Serve with Chicken Salad

For the perfect balance, serve this chicken salad with crunchy sides like potato chips, a fresh green salad, or pickles. You can also pair it with a light soup, like a tomato or vegetable bisque, for a cozy meal.

For a creative twist, try adding a side of fruit salad for sweetness or crispy baked sweet potato fries for a little extra crunch.

These sides complement the salad’s flavors and offer a variety of textures, making it a versatile dish for any occasion.

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