This Fuji apple chicken salad is a delightful blend of crisp apple chips, tender chicken breasts, and mixed greens, all livened up with a tangy white balsamic vinaigrette. Perfect for a refreshing lunch or a light dinner, this salad combines sweet, savory, and crunchy elements that will make your taste buds dance.
When preparing this recipe, you might come across ingredients that are not typically stocked in your pantry. White balsamic vinegar and Gorgonzola cheese are two such items. White balsamic vinegar offers a milder and slightly sweeter flavor compared to regular balsamic vinegar, while Gorgonzola cheese provides a creamy and tangy punch. Make sure to grab these items from the supermarket to achieve the authentic taste of this salad.
Ingredients for Copycat Panera Fuji Apple Chicken Salad
Extra virgin olive oil: Used for brushing the chicken breasts and as a base for the vinaigrette.
Chicken breasts: The main protein component of the salad.
Mixed greens: Provides a fresh and crunchy base for the salad.
Red onion: Adds a sharp and slightly sweet flavor to the salad.
Apple chips: Offers a sweet and crunchy contrast.
Pecans: Adds a nutty and crunchy texture.
Gorgonzola cheese: Provides a creamy and tangy flavor.
Tomatoes: Adds a juicy and slightly acidic element to the salad.
White balsamic vinegar: The key ingredient for the vinaigrette, offering a mild and slightly sweet flavor.
Honey: Adds sweetness to balance the vinaigrette.
Sea salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the salad and vinaigrette.
Black pepper: Adds a bit of heat and complexity.
Garlic powder: Provides a subtle garlic flavor to the vinaigrette.
One reader, Iggy Taber says:
This copycat Panera Fuji apple chicken salad recipe is a delightful blend of flavors and textures. The juicy chicken, crunchy apple chips, and tangy vinaigrette make it a refreshing and satisfying meal. Perfect for a light lunch or dinner!
Techniques Required for Making Copycat Panera Fuji Apple Chicken Salad
How to preheat the oven: Set the oven to the desired temperature (350 degrees F in this case) and allow it to reach that temperature before placing the food inside. How to prepare a baking sheet: Line the baking sheet with aluminum foil and mist it with cooking spray or oil to prevent sticking. How to brush chicken with olive oil: Use a pastry brush to evenly coat the chicken breasts with olive oil. How to season chicken: Sprinkle a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper over the chicken breasts. How to check internal temperature of chicken: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 160 degrees F. How to thinly slice or shred chicken: After the chicken has cooled, use a sharp knife to cut it into thin slices or use two forks to shred it. How to whisk vinaigrette: Combine the olive oil, white balsamic vinegar, honey, sea salt, black pepper, and garlic powder in a bowl and whisk until the mixture is well blended.
How To Make Copycat Panera Fuji Apple Chicken Salad
Our version of the Panera chicken salad loaded with fuji apple tastes just like the original! It also comes with a tasteful vinaigrette for a tastier salad.
Serves:
Ingredients
For Salad:
- 1tbspextra virgin olive oil
- 2chicken breasts,boneless, skinless
- 10ozmixed greens
- red onion,a quarter, thinly sliced
- 2cupsapple chips
- 1cuppecans,glazed
- ½cupgorgonzola cheese,crumbled
- 1cuptomatoes,freshly-diced, optional
For While Balsamic Vinaigrette:
- ½cupextra virgin olive oil
- ¼cupwhite balsamic vinegar
- 3tbsphoney
- ½tspsea salt
- ¼tspblack pepper,freshly-cracked
- ⅛tspgarlic powder
Instructions
Salad:
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Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
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Prepare a baking sheet with aluminum foil, then mist it with cooking spray or oil.
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Brush the chicken breasts with olive oil, then season with a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper.
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Place the chicken on the prepared baking sheet.
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Cook for 20 to 30 minutes, or until internal temperature is 160 degrees F and the juices run clear.
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Remove, then let the chicken cool for at least 10 minutes. Thinly slice or shred the chicken.
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Toss the mixed greens, red onion, apple chips, pecans, gorgonzola cheese and tomatoes together in a large bowl.
While Balsamic Vinaigrette:
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Whisk the olive oil, white balsamic vinegar, honey, sea salt, black pepper, and garlic powder together in a bowl until blended.
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Drizzle the desired amount of vinaigrette over the salad, then toss to combine.
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Serve, and enjoy!
Nutrition
- Calories: 1514.21kcal
- Fat: 122.73g
- Saturated Fat: 22.46g
- Trans Fat: 0.18g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 73.83g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 21.01g
- Carbohydrates: 61.43g
- Fiber: 10.28g
- Sugar: 47.16g
- Protein: 51.23g
- Cholesterol: 136.67mg
- Sodium: 1021.24mg
- Calcium: 310.16mg
- Potassium: 1300.25mg
- Iron: 4.95mg
- Vitamin A: 669.19µg
- Vitamin C: 28.97mg
Helpful Technique for Achieving the Perfect Flavor Balance
When preparing the chicken breasts, ensure they are of even thickness for uniform cooking. If needed, use a meat mallet to pound them to an even thickness. This will help the chicken cook more evenly and prevent it from drying out.
Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Salad Recipe
Pre-cook the chicken: Cook and slice the chicken breasts ahead of time. Store them in the fridge to save time on busy days.
Use pre-made apple chips: Buy apple chips from the store instead of making your own. This will cut down on preparation time.
Buy pre-washed greens: Purchase mixed greens that are already washed and ready to use. This eliminates the need for washing and drying.
Pre-make the vinaigrette: Whisk together the white balsamic vinaigrette ingredients and store in a jar. Shake well before using.
Chop vegetables in advance: Slice the red onion and tomatoes ahead of time and store them in airtight containers.
Substitute Ingredients For Copycat Panera Fuji Apple Chicken Salad Recipe
extra virgin olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a similar healthy fat profile and a mild flavor that works well in salads and dressings.
chicken breasts - Substitute with tofu: Tofu is a great plant-based protein alternative that can be marinated and grilled to mimic the texture and flavor of chicken.
mixed greens - Substitute with baby spinach: Baby spinach provides a similar texture and nutritional profile, adding a slightly different but pleasant flavor.
red onion - Substitute with shallots: Shallots offer a milder, sweeter flavor compared to red onions, making them a good alternative for those who prefer less pungency.
apple chips - Substitute with dried cranberries: Dried cranberries add a sweet-tart flavor and chewy texture that complements the salad well.
pecans - Substitute with walnuts: Walnuts provide a similar crunch and nutty flavor, and they are often more readily available.
gorgonzola cheese - Substitute with feta cheese: Feta cheese offers a tangy and creamy texture that can replace the strong flavor of gorgonzola.
tomatoes - Substitute with red bell peppers: Red bell peppers add a sweet crunch and vibrant color, similar to tomatoes, but with a different texture.
extra virgin olive oil - Substitute with grapeseed oil: Grapeseed oil has a neutral flavor and high smoke point, making it a versatile alternative for dressings.
white balsamic vinegar - Substitute with apple cider vinegar: Apple cider vinegar provides a similar acidity and sweetness, making it a good substitute in vinaigrettes.
honey - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup offers a similar sweetness and viscosity, with a slightly different flavor profile.
sea salt - Substitute with kosher salt: Kosher salt has a similar texture and salinity, making it an easy swap in recipes.
black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper provides a similar heat but with a slightly different flavor, often used for aesthetic purposes in light-colored dishes.
garlic powder - Substitute with onion powder: Onion powder offers a different but complementary flavor, adding depth to the vinaigrette.
How to Beautifully Present This Fuji Apple Chicken Salad
Serve smaller portion sizes: Arrange the mixed greens in a delicate mound at the center of a pristine white plate, ensuring a balanced and elegant presentation.
Use decoration: Thinly slice the red onion and fan them out around the greens, adding a touch of color and sophistication.
Highlight the protein: Slice the chicken breasts thinly and layer them artfully on top of the greens, ensuring each piece is visible and evenly distributed.
Add texture: Scatter the apple chips and pecans around the plate, creating a contrast in texture and adding visual interest.
Incorporate color: Halve the tomatoes and place them strategically around the salad, adding vibrant pops of red to the presentation.
Enhance flavor: Crumble the gorgonzola cheese over the top, ensuring it is evenly distributed to provide a creamy and tangy contrast to the other ingredients.
Dress with finesse: Drizzle the white balsamic vinaigrette lightly over the salad just before serving, ensuring it enhances the flavors without overwhelming the dish.
Garnish thoughtfully: Finish with a few whole pecans and a sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper for an added touch of elegance and refinement.
Essential Tools for Making Copycat Panera Fuji Apple Chicken Salad Recipe
Oven: Used to bake the chicken breasts until they reach the desired internal temperature.
Baking sheet: A flat surface to place the chicken breasts on for baking.
Aluminum foil: Lined on the baking sheet to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
Cooking spray: Used to mist the aluminum foil to further prevent sticking.
Brush: Used to apply olive oil evenly on the chicken breasts.
Meat thermometer: Essential for checking the internal temperature of the chicken to ensure it is cooked properly.
Knife: Used to thinly slice or shred the cooked chicken breasts.
Cutting board: A safe surface to slice or shred the chicken.
Large bowl: Used to toss the mixed greens, red onion, apple chips, pecans, gorgonzola cheese, and tomatoes together.
Whisk: Used to blend the olive oil, white balsamic vinegar, honey, sea salt, black pepper, and garlic powder together for the vinaigrette.
Small bowl: Used to mix the ingredients for the white balsamic vinaigrette.
Tongs: Useful for tossing the salad ingredients together with the vinaigrette.
Serving plates: To serve the final salad.
Storage and Freezing Instructions for Copycat Panera Fuji Apple Chicken Salad
- To store the salad, place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Keep the dressing separate from the salad to prevent the greens from wilting.
- If you want to store the salad for a longer period, you can freeze the chicken separately. Cook the chicken as directed, let it cool completely, and then place it in a freezer-safe container or bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
- When ready to use the frozen chicken, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. You can then reheat it in the microwave or oven before adding it to the salad.
- The apple chips, pecans, and gorgonzola cheese can also be stored separately in airtight containers at room temperature for up to a week. This will help maintain their texture and flavor.
- The white balsamic vinaigrette can be stored in a jar or airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Give it a good shake before using it to ensure the ingredients are well combined.
- When you're ready to serve the salad, simply assemble all the ingredients together in a large bowl and drizzle with the desired amount of dressing. Toss well and enjoy your fresh and flavorful Panera Fuji Apple Chicken Salad!
How To Reheat Leftover Fuji Apple Chicken Salad
- The best way to reheat leftover copycat panera fuji apple chicken salad is to separate the ingredients and reheat them individually. This will help maintain the texture and flavor of each component.
- Start by removing the chicken from the salad and placing it in a microwave-safe dish. Cover the dish with a damp paper towel and microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through.
- If you prefer, you can also reheat the chicken in a skillet over medium heat. Add a small amount of olive oil or butter to the pan and cook the chicken until it's warmed through and slightly crispy on the outside.
- For the mixed greens, red onion, and tomatoes, it's best to keep them fresh and crisp. If they've become slightly wilted, you can refresh them by soaking them in cold water for a few minutes, then patting them dry with a paper towel.
- The apple chips, pecans, and gorgonzola cheese can be added to the salad cold, as they don't require reheating.
- When you're ready to serve, toss the reheated chicken and fresh salad ingredients together in a large bowl.
- Drizzle the salad with the white balsamic vinaigrette, which can be stored separately in an airtight container in the refrigerator. If the dressing has thickened, whisk it briefly or let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before using.
- If you find that the salad needs a little extra flavor or moisture after reheating, you can add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a sprinkle of salt and black pepper to taste.
Interesting Trivia About Fuji Apples Used in This Salad
A fun fact about this recipe is that white balsamic vinegar is a milder and slightly sweeter alternative to traditional balsamic vinegar, making it a perfect choice for light and refreshing salads.
Is Making Copycat Panera Fuji Apple Chicken Salad Recipe at Home Cost-Effective?
This copycat Panera Fuji apple chicken salad recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The main ingredients like chicken breasts, mixed greens, red onion, apple chips, pecans, gorgonzola cheese, and tomatoes are relatively affordable and can be found in most grocery stores. The homemade white balsamic vinaigrette adds a gourmet touch without breaking the bank. Overall Verdict: 8/10. Approximate cost for a household of 4 people: $20-$25 USD.
Is This Salad Recipe Healthy or Not?
The Panera Fuji apple chicken salad recipe is a relatively healthy option, offering a balance of protein, fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats. The salad includes:
- Mixed greens and tomatoes, which provide essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber
- Chicken breast, a lean protein source that helps with muscle growth and repair
- Apple chips and pecans, which offer healthy fats, fiber, and various nutrients
- Gorgonzola cheese, a source of calcium and protein
However, there are a few aspects that could be improved to make the salad even healthier:
- The dressing contains honey, which adds extra sugar to the salad. Consider reducing the amount of honey or replacing it with a natural sweetener like stevia.
- The apple chips may be high in sugar, especially if they are commercially prepared. Opt for fresh, sliced apples instead to reduce the sugar content and increase the fiber intake.
- The pecans are a healthy addition, but they are also calorie-dense. Be mindful of the portion size to maintain a balanced calorie intake.
To further enhance the nutritional value of this salad, you could:
- Add more colorful vegetables, such as shredded carrots, sliced bell peppers, or roasted beets, to increase the variety of vitamins and minerals
- Include a whole grain, like quinoa or farro, to boost the fiber content and provide additional protein
- Experiment with different leafy greens, such as spinach or arugula, to introduce a wider range of nutrients and flavors
- Use a light, homemade dressing made with olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs to reduce the reliance on store-bought dressings that may contain added sugars or preservatives
Editor's Opinion on This Delightful Salad Recipe
This recipe beautifully balances flavors and textures, combining tender chicken with crisp apple chips, creamy gorgonzola, and crunchy pecans. The white balsamic vinaigrette adds a delightful tangy sweetness that complements the savory elements. Baking the chicken ensures it remains juicy and flavorful. The mixed greens and fresh tomatoes provide a refreshing base. Overall, it's a well-rounded, satisfying salad that captures the essence of Panera's Fuji Apple Chicken Salad.
Enhance Your Copycat Panera Fuji Apple Chicken Salad Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
Similar Salad Recipes to Try If You Love This One
Ideal Appetizers and Desserts to Serve with Copycat Panera Fuji Apple Chicken Salad
Why trust this Copycat Panera Fuji Apple Chicken Salad Recipe:
This recipe captures the essence of Panera's beloved Fuji Apple Chicken Salad. With fresh ingredients like mixed greens, gorgonzola cheese, and apple chips, it offers a delightful balance of flavors and textures. The white balsamic vinaigrette adds a unique twist, making it a standout. Trust this recipe for its simplicity and authenticity, ensuring a delicious and satisfying meal.
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