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How to Make Panera Bread Chicken Salad at Home – Easy Recipe Guide

Homemade Panera bread chicken salad with grapes, celery, and creamy dressing in a bowl.

Recreate the classic Panera Bread chicken salad recipe at home with this easy and delicious copycat version. Made with tender chicken, crisp celery, juicy grapes, and a creamy, tangy dressing, this salad is perfect for sandwiches, wraps, or a light meal.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Chicken Salad:

  • 2 cups cooked chicken breast (shredded or diced)
  • 1 stalk celery (finely diced)
  • 1 cup red grapes (halved)
  • ½ cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a lighter option)
  • 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
  • Salt and black pepper (to taste)

Optional Add-ins:

 

  • ¼ cup toasted almonds or walnuts (for crunch)
  • 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley or tarragon (for extra flavor)
  • ¼ cup dried cranberries (for sweetness)

Instructions

  • Prepare the Chicken: Cook and shred (or dice) chicken breast. If using rotisserie chicken, remove the skin and shred the meat.
  • Chop the Ingredients: Finely dice celery and halve the grapes.
  • Make the Dressing: In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until smooth.
  • Combine Everything: In a large mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken, celery, and grapes. Pour the dressing over the mixture and stir until well coated.
  • Chill & Serve: Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let flavors meld. Serve as a salad, sandwich filling, or in a wrap.

Notes

  • Make it healthier: Use Greek yogurt instead of mayo for a protein boost.
  • For extra crunch: Add toasted nuts or seeds.
  • Storage: Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Nutrition

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