When you’re craving a light yet satisfying meal, Panera Bread chicken salad hits the spot. It’s the perfect balance of tender chicken, crunchy celery, and sweet grapes, all tied together with a creamy, tangy dressing. But did you know you can whip up this classic right in your kitchen?
In this article, you’ll discover how to recreate this popular dish from scratch. We’ll break down the essential ingredients, walk you through the step-by-step process, and throw in some pro tips to elevate your salad. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or planning a weekend lunch, this guide has got you covered.
Let’s dive right in and start with why this recipe is a must-try!
Introduction to Panera Bread Chicken Salad
Why Panera’s Chicken Salad Is Popular
There’s something undeniably comforting about Panera Bread’s chicken salad. Its fresh ingredients and bold flavors make it a go-to choice for many. The combination of juicy chicken breast, crisp celery, and juicy grapes creates a beautiful medley of textures. What’s more, the creamy dressing, with hints of Dijon mustard and lemon juice, brings everything together in the most delicious way.
But let’s face it—buying this salad regularly can add up quickly. That’s why recreating this dish at home isn’t just cost-effective, it’s a chance to customize the recipe to your liking. Plus, the homemade version is just as good—if not better!
Homemade vs. Store-Bought: Key Advantages
Making Panera Bread chicken salad from scratch puts you in control. Want a lower-fat option? Swap mayo for Greek yogurt. Prefer a sweeter twist? Toss in some dried cranberries or apples. The possibilities are endless!
Not to mention, the homemade route means fresher ingredients. You get to skip the preservatives and load up on the good stuff. Whether it’s for lunch, dinner, or even a snack, this salad is versatile, easy to prepare, and sure to impress.
Coming up next, we’ll dive into the ingredients you need to bring this recipe to life.
Ingredients for Panera Bread Chicken Salad
Essential Ingredients List
Creating the Panera Bread chicken salad recipe at home starts with gathering simple, fresh ingredients. The beauty of this recipe lies in its minimalism—there’s no need for anything fancy. Most of the items are probably sitting in your kitchen right now!
Here’s what you’ll need:
- Chicken breast – 2 cups, cooked and shredded (grilled or baked)
- Celery – 1 stalk, finely diced
- Red grapes – 1 cup, halved
- Mayonnaise – ½ cup (swap for Greek yogurt for a lighter option)
- Dijon mustard – 1 tbsp
- Lemon juice – 1 tbsp, freshly squeezed
- Salt and pepper – To taste
These core ingredients mirror Panera’s iconic flavor, offering that signature creamy texture and sweet-savory balance. If you prefer, you can switch things up by substituting apples for grapes or adding toasted almonds for extra crunch.
Optional Add-ins for Customization
One of the best things about this chicken salad recipe is how easy it is to customize. If you enjoy a little sweetness, try tossing in a handful of dried cranberries or chopped apples. Feeling bold? Fresh herbs like parsley or tarragon can instantly brighten up the dish.
For those watching their calories, swap full-fat mayo for low-fat or Greek yogurt. This small change cuts down on fat while maintaining that rich, creamy consistency.
Up next, we’ll walk through the step-by-step process to make this dish come to life in your kitchen.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Cooking the Chicken – Grilling, Baking, or Boiling
The foundation of this Panera Bread chicken salad recipe is juicy, tender chicken. If you’ve got leftover chicken, great—this recipe is perfect for repurposing it. But if you’re starting from scratch, no worries!
Grill it: Marinate lightly in olive oil, salt, and pepper. Grill for 6-8 minutes per side.
Bake it: Preheat your oven to 375°F. Season the chicken and bake for 25 minutes.
Boil it: Drop chicken breasts in boiling water and cook for 15-20 minutes.
Once cooked, let it cool slightly, then shred or dice it into bite-sized pieces. If you’re short on time, rotisserie chicken is an easy and delicious shortcut.
Chopping Fruits and Vegetables
Next up, grab your celery and grapes. Dice the celery finely for that crisp bite in every forkful. Halve the grapes, ensuring they blend seamlessly with the other ingredients. If grapes aren’t your thing, feel free to swap them for tart apples.
The key here is balance—sweet, savory, and crunchy elements all come together to recreate Panera’s magic.
Making the Creamy Dressing
Now, let’s whip up the dressing. In a medium bowl, combine the mayo, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Whisk until smooth and well blended. This dressing is where the magic happens, tying together every ingredient into a cohesive dish.
Looking to cut calories? Replace half the mayo with Greek yogurt. The result? A tangy, creamy dressing that’s lighter but still full of flavor.
Combining Ingredients for the Perfect Texture
In a large mixing bowl, toss in the shredded chicken, diced celery, and halved grapes. Pour the dressing over the top and stir gently until everything is well coated. The dressing should cling to the chicken, ensuring every bite is full of flavor.
Chilling for Enhanced Flavor
For the best taste, cover the bowl and pop it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This lets the flavors meld and intensify, giving you that authentic Panera Bread chicken salad experience.
Now that the salad’s ready, stay tuned for expert tips to elevate your dish even further.
Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Chicken Salad
Adding Crunch – Nuts, Seeds, and Celery
Want to take your Panera Bread chicken salad recipe up a notch? Texture is key. A little crunch can completely transform this dish, making it even more delightful. Toss in some toasted almonds or pecans for that extra bite. You could also add sunflower seeds, which bring a subtle nutty flavor without overpowering the salad.
Celery, of course, is a classic. Its crispness complements the creaminess of the dressing, ensuring every bite has a satisfying crunch. Don’t skip this ingredient if you’re aiming to stay true to Panera’s iconic texture.
Incorporating Sweetness – Grapes, Apples, and Cranberries
Balance is everything in a great chicken salad. The sweetness from grapes or apples cuts through the richness of the dressing, creating the perfect sweet-savory harmony. If you’re a fan of dried fruit, sprinkle in a handful of dried cranberries. They provide a chewy texture and just the right pop of sweetness.
For an autumn twist, consider adding diced pears or pomegranate seeds. These fruity additions add layers of flavor and brighten the overall dish.
Herb Options for Extra Flavor
Fresh herbs can do wonders for the Panera Bread chicken salad recipe. A sprinkle of parsley or chives adds freshness, while dill or tarragon brings a hint of sophistication. If you enjoy experimenting, basil or cilantro can give the salad a unique twist.
For more chicken-inspired dishes, check out this honey-glazed chicken tenders recipe. It’s another easy and flavorful option you’ll love!
Nutritional Breakdown
Calories, Protein, and Fats Per Serving
Curious about the nutritional value of this Panera Bread chicken salad recipe? Here’s a quick breakdown for a standard serving:
- Calories – Approximately 350 kcal
- Protein – 28g
- Fat – 22g
- Carbohydrates – 8g
- Fiber – 2g
This salad is packed with lean protein, making it a filling yet light option. The fats primarily come from the mayo, but using Greek yogurt can help reduce the fat content significantly.
Healthier Ingredient Swaps
If you’re looking to cut calories, opt for low-fat mayo or replace it entirely with plain Greek yogurt. This swap lowers the fat while increasing protein. Adding extra vegetables, like bell peppers or cucumbers, boosts fiber without adding many calories.
Balancing Macros for Dietary Goals
For those following low-carb diets, reduce the grapes and add more celery or cucumbers. This keeps the carb count low while maintaining the salad’s refreshing crunch.
This dish fits seamlessly into most meal plans—whether you’re focusing on low-carb, keto, or high-protein diets.
Common Variations of Panera Chicken Salad
Apple and Walnut Chicken Salad
If you’re looking to add a twist to the Panera Bread chicken salad recipe, apples and walnuts are the way to go. The tartness of apples pairs beautifully with the creamy dressing, while walnuts provide that extra crunch that makes each bite more exciting. Choose Honeycrisp or Granny Smith apples for a sharper flavor, or go with Gala apples for a sweeter option.
To make this variation, simply dice one medium apple and toss it into the mix along with ¼ cup of chopped walnuts. Not only does this version taste great, but it also packs extra nutrients and fiber.
Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad
For those aiming for a healthier spin, swap out the mayo for Greek yogurt. This small change significantly cuts down on calories and fat while adding extra protein. Plus, Greek yogurt adds a tangy flair to the dressing, making it taste even fresher.
To keep the flavors balanced, consider adding a touch of honey or Dijon mustard. This version works great for meal prep and can stay fresh for up to 3 days in the fridge.
If you enjoy this lighter take, you might also like trying out different salad dressings. For more inspiration, check out this Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe. It’s another great high-protein dish to add to your rotation.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
Best Breads and Wraps
The Panera Bread chicken salad recipe isn’t just for salads—it shines in sandwiches and wraps too. For the ultimate experience, serve it on a freshly baked croissant or a soft ciabatta roll. If you prefer a lighter option, whole wheat or multigrain bread adds a hearty touch.
Wraps are another fantastic way to enjoy this salad. Use a spinach or whole-grain wrap and layer with lettuce and tomato slices. This makes for an easy, portable lunch that’s perfect for work or school.
Pairing with Soups and Sides
Pairing the chicken salad with a warm bowl of soup creates a comforting, balanced meal. A light vegetable soup or classic tomato bisque complements the richness of the salad without overpowering it. Alternatively, pair it with a fresh fruit salad or roasted vegetables to keep things light and refreshing.
If you’re planning a picnic or gathering, serve the chicken salad as a dip with crackers or pita chips. It works beautifully as a party appetizer or snack!
Next up, we’ll answer some frequently asked questions to help you perfect this recipe even further.
FAQs
Does Panera Use Real Chicken in Their Salads?
Yes, Panera Bread uses real, all-white meat chicken in their salads. The chicken is typically grilled or roasted, ensuring a high-quality, lean protein source. Panera prides itself on using clean ingredients, which means no artificial preservatives, flavors, or colors in their chicken.
How Many Calories Are in Panera Fuji Apple Chicken Salad?
A full-sized Fuji Apple Chicken Salad at Panera contains approximately 560 calories. This includes the grilled chicken, mixed greens, tomatoes, red onions, pecans, and Fuji apple chips, all tossed in a sweet white balsamic vinaigrette. A half-sized portion is around 280 calories.
How Many Calories Are in a Panera Bread Chicken Caesar Salad?
A full-sized Chicken Caesar Salad from Panera has about 470 calories, while the half portion contains roughly 230 calories. The salad includes romaine lettuce, grilled chicken, grated Parmesan, and black pepper croutons, all coated in Caesar dressing.
How Many Calories Are in a Panera Chicken Salad?
A standard serving of Panera Bread chicken salad (typically in sandwiches or standalone) contains approximately 350 calories per cup. When served as part of a sandwich or wrap, the calorie count may vary depending on the bread or wrap used.
What Is the Most Unhealthy Food at Panera?
One of the most calorie-dense and less healthy options at Panera is the Mac & Cheese, which can pack around 960 calories for a large serving. Other high-calorie items include the Chipotle Bacon Melt and Bacon Mac & Cheese. These dishes are rich and delicious but best enjoyed in moderation.
What Is the Healthiest Bread at Panera?
The healthiest bread at Panera is the Whole Grain Miche or Sprouted Grain Roll. These options are rich in fiber, contain fewer calories, and have less sugar compared to other bread choices. Whole grain options generally provide more nutrients and keep you fuller longer.
Call to Action
Now that you know how to make the Panera Bread chicken salad recipe at home, it’s time to give it a try! This simple, versatile dish can brighten up any meal—whether it’s served in a sandwich, wrap, or enjoyed on its own.
If you love experimenting in the kitchen, feel free to customize the recipe to suit your taste. Don’t forget to share your results in the comments below. Have a favorite twist or secret ingredient? We’d love to hear about it!
For more easy and delicious recipes, explore other popular dishes on our site. Happy cooking!