Introduction: Why You’ll Love This Panera Bread Chicken Salad Recipe
Craving Panera’s famous chicken salad? This homemade version brings the same creamy, crunchy, and savory flavor—right to your kitchen. It’s quick, simple, and made with fresh ingredients. Whether you’re prepping lunch or hosting a gathering, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Keep reading to learn how to make it just like Panera (maybe even better).
Ingredients Overview
To recreate the signature flavor of Panera’s chicken salad, you’ll need a mix of fresh, crunchy, and creamy ingredients. Here’s a breakdown of the essentials:
Chicken
Cooked and shredded or chopped chicken breast is the star of this recipe. You can use:
- Rotisserie chicken for convenience and added flavor.
- Boiled or baked chicken breast for a lighter option.
- Leftover grilled chicken for a smoky twist.
Celery
Adds crunch and freshness. Finely dice it to balance the texture without overpowering each bite.
Sliced Almonds
Toasted almonds give a nutty crunch and mimic the texture found in the Panera version. Toast them lightly in a dry pan for extra flavor.
Red Grapes
Optional but highly recommended. They add a subtle sweetness and balance the savory ingredients. Cut them in halves or quarters.
Green Onions or Red Onion
A small amount of onion adds a sharp bite. Use green onions for a milder taste or finely chopped red onion for a little zing.
Dressing Breakdown
The dressing is what truly sets this chicken salad apart. Creamy, tangy, and just slightly sweet—this blend pulls all the ingredients together and gives it that signature Panera flavor. Here’s how to make it:
Mayonnaise
The base of the dressing. It adds creaminess and a rich texture. Use full-fat mayo for the closest match to Panera’s version, or light mayo if you’re cutting calories.
Plain Greek Yogurt (Optional)
A healthy substitute for part of the mayo. It adds tang and protein without compromising texture. Use a 50/50 mix with mayo for a lighter but still creamy result.
Honey or Sugar
Just a touch of sweetness balances the saltiness and tang. Start with a small amount—about ½ to 1 teaspoon—and adjust to taste.
Dijon Mustard
Adds a subtle kick and depth of flavor. It also enhances the creaminess and helps emulsify the dressing.
Apple Cider Vinegar or Lemon Juice
For acidity and freshness. This cuts through the richness of the mayo and brings a bright, zesty note.
Salt and Black Pepper
Essential for seasoning. Add to taste, and don’t skip this step—good seasoning makes a huge difference.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Ready to make your own copycat Panera chicken salad? Follow these easy steps for the perfect blend of creamy, crunchy, and savory goodness:
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Cook the chicken if you’re not using pre-cooked or rotisserie. You can boil, bake, or grill chicken breasts until fully cooked (internal temp: 165°F or 74°C).
- Let it cool, then shred or chop into small, bite-sized pieces. You’ll need about 2 to 2½ cups of cooked chicken.
Step 2: Chop the Add-ins
- Celery: Dice finely for crunch in every bite.
- Grapes: Slice in halves or quarters, depending on size.
- Green or red onions: Thinly slice or finely chop.
- Toasted almonds: Lightly toast in a dry pan over medium heat for 2–3 minutes, stirring often. Let cool.
Step 3: Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup plain Greek yogurt (optional)
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp honey or sugar
- 1 tsp apple cider vinegar or lemon juice
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Whisk until smooth and creamy.
Step 4: Combine Everything
In a large mixing bowl, add the chicken, celery, grapes, almonds, and onions. Pour the dressing over the top. Gently fold everything together until the ingredients are well coated.
Step 5: Chill (Optional but Recommended)
Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This helps the flavors meld and makes the salad taste even better.
Tips and Pro Techniques
Want to take your homemade Panera chicken salad to the next level? These expert tips will help you nail the texture, flavor, and overall presentation every time.
Use Cold Chicken for Best Texture
Warm or freshly cooked chicken can make the salad watery. Let the chicken cool completely before mixing it with the dressing for a cleaner, creamier result.
Shred vs. Chop – Pick Your Texture
Shredded chicken gives a softer, more uniform bite (closer to Panera’s texture). Chopped chicken offers a chunkier, heartier feel. Choose based on your personal preference.
Toast the Almonds
Toasting sliced almonds brings out their nutty flavor and keeps them crisp. Don’t skip this step—it makes a big difference in both taste and texture.
Don’t Overdress
Start with a portion of the dressing and mix. Add more if needed. This keeps the salad from turning soggy or overly rich.
Dice Ingredients Evenly
Small, even pieces of celery, grapes, and onions ensure you get balanced flavor and texture in every bite. Oversized chunks can overpower the salad.
Chill Before Serving
Let the salad sit in the fridge for 30–60 minutes before serving. This helps the flavors meld and gives the salad a refreshing, crisp taste.
Taste and Adjust
Before serving, give the salad a final taste. Add a pinch more salt, a squeeze of lemon, or an extra spoon of yogurt if it needs a little tweak.
Serving Ideas
One of the best things about this Panera-style chicken salad is how versatile it is. Whether you’re planning a quick lunch, a light dinner, or hosting guests, here are some delicious ways to serve it:
Classic Sandwich
Scoop the chicken salad onto your favorite bread, croissant, or sandwich roll. Add lettuce, tomato, or sliced cucumbers for extra crunch. A buttery croissant gives a rich, bakery-style finish—just like Panera!
Lettuce Wraps (Low-Carb Option)
For a lighter or gluten-free option, serve the salad in large romaine or butter lettuce leaves. It’s crisp, refreshing, and perfect for a low-carb meal.
On a Bed of Greens
Serve the chicken salad over mixed greens, spinach, or arugula. Top with a drizzle of vinaigrette or a sprinkle of extra almonds for added texture.
In a Wrap
Wrap it up in a whole wheat tortilla or spinach wrap for a portable and satisfying meal. You can also add shredded carrots, sprouts, or avocado slices.
With Crackers or Pita Chips
Perfect for snacking or entertaining. Serve the salad as a dip alongside crackers, pita chips, or sliced baguette.
Stuffed in a Tomato or Avocado
For a fun and elegant presentation, hollow out large tomatoes or avocado halves and stuff them with the chicken salad. Great for brunch or a light summer meal.
Meal Prep Bowls
Portion the salad into containers with sides like quinoa, cucumbers, or fruit for a balanced, ready-to-go lunch.
Substitutions and Variations
One of the best parts about making this Panera-inspired chicken salad at home is the ability to customize it to your taste or dietary needs. Here are some easy substitutions and tasty variations to try:
Protein Swaps
- Rotisserie Chicken: A quick and flavorful shortcut.
- Canned Chicken: Works in a pinch, though fresh is best for texture.
- Turkey: Great for using up leftovers after the holidays.
- Tofu or Chickpeas: For a vegetarian option, use firm tofu cubes or mashed chickpeas as the base.
Dressing Substitutes
- Greek Yogurt: Replace all or part of the mayo with plain Greek yogurt for a lighter, tangy flavor.
- Sour Cream: Adds richness with a bit of tartness.
- Avocado: For a creamy, mayo-free version, blend avocado with lemon juice and seasonings.
Crunchy Add-ins
- Chopped Walnuts or Pecans: Swap out almonds for a different nutty flavor.
- Sunflower Seeds or Pumpkin Seeds: Great nut-free options with crunch.
- Chopped Apples: Adds a crisp, sweet bite—pairs perfectly with grapes.
Fruit Variations
- Dried Cranberries or Cherries: For a chewy, tart contrast.
- Mandarin Oranges or Pineapple Tidbits: Bright, juicy, and unexpected.
Flavor Boosters
- Fresh Herbs: Add chopped parsley, dill, or tarragon for a burst of freshness.
- Spices: A pinch of paprika, garlic powder, or curry powder can give it a unique twist.
Texture Twists
- Hard-Boiled Eggs: Add chopped eggs for extra protein and creaminess.
- Cheese: Crumbled feta or shredded cheddar adds a tangy kick.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Homemade chicken salad is perfect for meal prep, picnics, or a quick lunch on busy days—but it’s important to store it properly to keep it fresh and safe to eat. Here’s everything you need to know:
How to Store Chicken Salad
- Use an airtight container: Store the salad in a sealed container to prevent it from absorbing other fridge odors and to keep it from drying out.
- Refrigerate promptly: Chicken salad should be refrigerated within two hours of preparation.
- Shelf life: When properly stored, it will stay fresh for 3 to 4 days in the refrigerator.
Avoid Freezing
Freezing is not recommended, as the creamy dressing tends to separate and change texture when thawed. The fruits and veggies (like grapes and celery) also become watery and lose their crispness after freezing.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Prep components separately: If making ahead for events or lunches, prep the ingredients (chop veggies, cook chicken, mix dressing) and store them separately in the fridge. Combine just before serving for the freshest taste.
- Toast nuts ahead of time: Toast almonds in advance and keep them in a dry container at room temperature to preserve their crunch.
- Keep it chilled: If taking it to go (picnic, potluck, lunchbox), keep it in a cooler bag with an ice pack to maintain safe temperature.
Nutrition Information
When you’re enjoying this delicious Panera-inspired chicken salad, you’ll want to know exactly what you’re eating. Here’s a general breakdown of the nutrition for one serving of the salad, based on standard ingredients and portion sizes. (Note: values may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.)
Calories
A typical serving (about 1 cup) of this chicken salad contains approximately 350-400 calories, depending on the amount of dressing and added ingredients like nuts or fruits.
Protein
This chicken salad is a great source of protein, thanks to the chicken. Each serving contains about 25-30 grams of protein, which helps keep you full and satisfied.
Fat
- Total Fat: About 20-25 grams per serving, with the majority coming from the mayonnaise and nuts. You can reduce the fat content by using a lighter dressing or swapping some mayo for Greek yogurt.
- Saturated Fat: Around 3-5 grams, mainly from the mayonnaise and nuts.
- Healthy Fats: The nuts and any avocado or olive oil used in the dressing provide healthy monounsaturated fats.
Carbohydrates
- Total Carbs: Around 10-15 grams per serving. This includes natural sugars from fruits (like grapes) and a small amount from the dressing.
- Fiber: Approximately 2-3 grams per serving, mainly from the celery, grapes, and any other veggies you add.
- Sugar: About 5-7 grams, coming mostly from the grapes and any honey in the dressing.
Vitamins and Minerals
- Vitamin A: The lettuce and celery provide a small amount of Vitamin A, but this salad is not a major source of it.
- Vitamin C: Grapes and celery offer a modest amount of Vitamin C.
- Calcium and Iron: The almonds and chicken provide small amounts of calcium and iron.
Customization for Health Goals
- Low-Carb Option: Skip the grapes or reduce the quantity for fewer carbs. You can also serve it on lettuce wraps instead of bread.
- Lower Calorie: Use a lighter mayonnaise or Greek yogurt instead of full-fat mayo. You can also use less dressing if you’re watching your calorie intake.
- Higher Protein: Add more chicken or include hard-boiled eggs for extra protein without many extra calories.
Conclusion
This Panera-inspired chicken salad is the perfect combination of creamy, crunchy, and savory flavors, making it a versatile dish for any occasion. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you can recreate this beloved salad right in your own kitchen—whether for a quick lunch, picnic, or meal prep. Plus, the flexibility to customize it with your favorite fruits, nuts, and dressings means you can make it your own every time. Enjoy this delicious and nutritious dish, and feel free to experiment with variations to suit your tastes!