Delicious Panera Asian Sesame Chicken Salad Recipe

Intro and Brief Recap

Have you ever craved a salad that bursts with flavor while still being light and refreshing? The Panera Asian Sesame Chicken Salad Recipe is exactly what you need. This delightful dish combines tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and a savory sesame dressing, creating an unforgettable experience for your taste buds. Imagine the crunch of fresh greens mingling with the juicy chicken, all enhanced by the aromatic blend of sesame oil and soy sauce.

This salad is perfect for a quick lunch or a light dinner, making it versatile for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting friends for a casual get-together or simply treating yourself on a busy weekday, this recipe promises satisfaction in every bite. It evokes fond memories of enjoying meals at Panera with loved ones, where each forkful brings comfort and joy. Get ready to dive into the vibrant flavors of this amazing salad that will keep you coming back for more!

Key Ingredients For Panera Asian Sesame Chicken Salad Recipe

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but you can adjust the amount depending on how many people you’re feeding.
• Mixed Salad Greens: A blend of romaine, spinach, and arugula creates a fresh base; choose organic if possible.
• Cucumber: Slice thinly for a refreshing crunch; look for firm cucumbers without blemishes.
• Carrots: Grate or julienne them to add color and sweetness; fresh carrots enhance the salad’s texture.
• Sesame Seeds: Toasted seeds provide nutty flavor; they also add visual appeal when sprinkled on top.

For the Sauce:

• Soy Sauce: Use low-sodium soy sauce to better control the saltiness in your dressing.
• Sesame Oil: This oil adds depth and richness; opt for pure sesame oil for the best flavor.
• Rice Vinegar: Provides acidity that balances the flavors; choose unseasoned rice vinegar for authenticity.
• Honey: Acts as a natural sweetener; adjust the amount based on your preference for sweetness.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Instructions For Panera Asian Sesame Chicken Salad Recipe

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

1. First Step: Prepare the Chicken

Start by preheating your grill or skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper to enhance their natural flavors. Cook them for about 6-7 minutes per side until they are golden brown and fully cooked through.

2. Second Step: Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, honey, and toasted sesame seeds. Adjust seasoning according to taste; this dressing will bring all the flavors together.

3. Third Step: Chop Vegetables

While the chicken is cooling down, chop your mixed salad greens into bite-sized pieces. Slice cucumbers thinly and grate or julienne carrots to add freshness and texture.

4. Fourth Step: Assemble the Salad

Once the chicken has cooled slightly, slice it into strips or cubes. In a large bowl, combine salad greens, cucumbers, carrots, and chicken pieces. Drizzle with dressing and toss gently until everything is well-coated.

5. Fifth Step: Garnish

Sprinkle additional sesame seeds on top before serving to elevate presentation and add extra crunch.

Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch.

Expert Tips

Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:

• Grill Options: If grilling isn’t an option, pan-searing works just as well—just ensure it’s cooked evenly throughout.
• Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas for extra color and nutrition.
• Dressing Storage: Store leftover dressing in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week; shake well before using again.

Preparation Steps

To make the Panera Asian Sesame Chicken Salad Recipe, begin by preparing all your ingredients. Start with the chicken breast; season it with salt and pepper. Grill or sauté until fully cooked, then let it cool before slicing into bite-sized pieces.

Next, chop the fresh vegetables. Use a mix of romaine lettuce, shredded carrots, and red cabbage for a colorful presentation. Cherry tomatoes and cucumbers add freshness to the salad.

Now, prepare the dressing that makes this recipe unique. In a mixing bowl, combine sesame oil, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, and minced garlic. Whisk these ingredients until well blended. Adjust the sweetness or tanginess according to your taste preferences.

In a large bowl, toss together the sliced chicken, vegetables, and dressing. Add toasted sesame seeds on top for crunch and flavor. This salad is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients.

Serving Suggestions

The Panera Asian Sesame Chicken Salad Recipe is perfect for various occasions. Serve it as a light lunch or dinner option. It also works beautifully as a side dish for grilled meats.

For an elegant presentation, consider placing each ingredient in separate sections on a large platter. Drizzle additional dressing over the top just before serving for added visual appeal.

You can also pair this salad with warm bread rolls or steamed dumplings to create a complete meal. The flavors of sesame and ginger blend wonderfully with Asian-inspired dishes like teriyaki chicken or tofu stir-fry.

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers from your Panera Asian Sesame Chicken Salad Recipe, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. However, it’s best to keep the dressing separate until ready to eat.

The salad will stay fresh for about 2 days when stored properly. If you’ve already mixed in the dressing, consume within 24 hours to maintain crispness in the vegetables.

To refresh leftover salad, consider adding more fresh greens or proteins like shrimp or tofu to enhance flavor and texture. Always check for freshness before consuming any stored items.

Variations of the Recipe

There are many ways to customize your Panera Asian Sesame Chicken Salad Recipe based on personal preferences or dietary restrictions. For example, if you’re looking for a vegetarian option, substitute grilled chicken with marinated tofu or chickpeas.

You can experiment with different vegetables such as bell peppers or snap peas for added crunch and color. Additionally, try using different nuts like almonds or peanuts instead of sesame seeds if desired.

For those who enjoy heat, add sliced jalapeños or a dash of sriracha sauce to elevate flavors further. These variations allow you to make this salad unique while retaining its core essence.

FAQs

What is included in Panera’s Asian Sesame Chicken Salad?

The Panera Asian Sesame Chicken Salad typically includes grilled chicken breast combined with mixed greens such as romaine lettuce and spinach. It features shredded carrots and red cabbage along with crunchy elements like toasted sesame seeds and almond slices. The standout aspect is its signature sesame ginger dressing that adds flavor and depth to each bite.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare components of the Panera Asian Sesame Chicken Salad Recipe ahead of time for convenience. Cooked chicken can be stored in the fridge for up to three days while chopped veggies remain fresh if kept sealed in an airtight container. Assemble everything just before serving to ensure vegetables stay crisp and vibrant.

Is there a gluten-free version of this recipe?

Absolutely! To create a gluten-free version of the Panera Asian Sesame Chicken Salad Recipe, use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari instead of regular soy sauce in your dressing mix. Ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free as well so that you can enjoy this tasty salad without worry.

What can I serve alongside this salad?

This delightful Panera Asian Sesame Chicken Salad pairs well with various sides that enhance its flavors without overwhelming them. Consider serving it with spring rolls filled with fresh vegetables or crispy wontons for extra texture. You might also find steamed rice or quinoa complements its lightness nicely while providing additional sustenance.