Looking for a fresh, flavorful chicken salad that tastes just like Panera’s? This copycat recipe brings the creamy, crunchy goodness of their famous salad right to your kitchen. It’s easy to make, packed with protein, and perfect for sandwiches or light lunches. Keep reading to learn how to recreate this crowd-pleaser at home—better than takeout and ready in minutes!
Why You’ll Love This Copycat Chicken Salad Recipe Panera
If you’re a fan of Panera’s chicken salad, this homemade version is about to become your new go-to recipe. Here’s why it stands out:
- Same Great Taste, Made at Home: This copycat recipe captures the creamy texture, nutty crunch, and light sweetness you love—without the trip to the café.
- Fresh and Customizable: Unlike pre-packaged versions, you control the ingredients. Use fresh, high-quality chicken, adjust the sweetness, or swap in your favorite mix-ins.
- Quick and Easy to Prepare: With a few simple steps and minimal cooking, it comes together fast—perfect for busy days or meal prep.
- Perfect for Any Meal: Enjoy it in a sandwich, wrap, salad bowl, or on its own. It’s versatile enough for lunch, dinner, or a light snack.
- Healthier Than Store-Bought: No preservatives or mystery ingredients—just real food you can feel good about.
Why You’ll Love This Copycat Panera Chicken Salad
If you’re a fan of Panera’s chicken salad, this homemade version is about to become your new go-to recipe. Here’s why it stands out:
- Same Great Taste, Made at Home: This copycat recipe captures the creamy texture, nutty crunch, and light sweetness you love—without the trip to the café.
- Fresh and Customizable: Unlike pre-packaged versions, you control the ingredients. Use fresh, high-quality chicken, adjust the sweetness, or swap in your favorite mix-ins.
- Quick and Easy to Prepare: With a few simple steps and minimal cooking, it comes together fast—perfect for busy days or meal prep.
- Perfect for Any Meal: Enjoy it in a sandwich, wrap, salad bowl, or on its own. It’s versatile enough for lunch, dinner, or a light snack.
- Healthier Than Store-Bought: No preservatives or mystery ingredients—just real food you can feel good about.
Ingredients Overview
To recreate the signature Panera chicken salad at home, you’ll need a combination of simple, fresh ingredients that come together for a perfect balance of flavor and texture. Here’s what goes into the recipe:
For the Chicken:
- Cooked Chicken Breast: Tender, shredded or chopped. Rotisserie chicken works great for convenience and flavor.
- Salt & Pepper: For basic seasoning before mixing into the salad.
For the Salad Mix:
- Celery: Adds a refreshing crunch and a hint of bitterness that balances the creamy dressing.
- Red Grapes (halved): Brings a touch of sweetness and juiciness to the mix.
- Sliced Almonds: For a nutty crunch that mimics the signature Napa almond texture.
For the Creamy Dressing:
- Mayonnaise: The base of the dressing; use full-fat for the creamiest texture.
- Plain Greek Yogurt (optional): Can be used to lighten the dressing or replace some mayo.
- Honey or Maple Syrup: Adds subtle sweetness to match Panera’s flavor profile.
- Lemon Juice: Freshens the dressing and balances the richness.
- Dijon Mustard: Adds mild tang and depth to the flavor.
- Salt & Pepper: Adjust to taste.
Ingredient Substitutions and Variations
One of the best things about this chicken salad recipe is its flexibility. Whether you’re working with dietary preferences, allergies, or just want to switch things up, there are plenty of easy swaps and add-ins you can try.
Protein Options:
- Rotisserie Chicken: Saves time and adds extra flavor.
- Grilled Chicken: Adds a smoky taste and works well if you’re avoiding added fats.
- Canned Chicken: A quick, budget-friendly substitute. Drain and shred well.
Dressing Alternatives:
- All-Greek Yogurt: Swap out mayo entirely for Greek yogurt for a tangier, lighter version.
- Avocado Mayo or Vegan Mayo: Perfect for dairy-free or egg-free diets.
- Add Sour Cream: For extra tang and creaminess, replace a spoonful of mayo or yogurt with sour cream.
Nut-Free Version:
- Sunflower Seeds or Pumpkin Seeds: Great crunchy alternatives if you have a nut allergy.
- Omit Nuts Entirely: The salad still tastes great without them.
Fruit Substitutions:
- Apples or Dried Cranberries: Swap or add these in place of grapes for a different sweetness and texture.
- Pineapple Chunks: For a tropical twist (especially good with grilled chicken).
Flavor Boosters:
- Chopped Fresh Herbs: Try dill, parsley, or tarragon for a burst of freshness.
- Chopped Red Onion or Green Onion: Adds a mild bite and extra flavor depth.
- Spices: A pinch of paprika, garlic powder, or celery seed can enhance the flavor profile.
Make It a Meal:
- Add Cooked Pasta: Turn it into a hearty chicken pasta salad.
- Serve in a Wrap or Pita: A fun, portable twist for lunch or picnics.
- On a Bed of Greens: Skip the bread and turn it into a low-carb salad bowl.
Essential Equipment
You don’t need any fancy tools to make this copycat Panera chicken salad, but having a few kitchen essentials on hand will make preparation smoother and faster. Here’s what you’ll need:
Cutting Board and Sharp Knife
- Purpose: For chopping chicken, celery, grapes, and any additional add-ins.
- Tip: Use a separate cutting board for raw chicken to avoid cross-contamination.
Mixing Bowls
- Medium Bowl: To prepare the creamy dressing.
- Large Bowl: To mix all ingredients together without spilling.
Measuring Cups and Spoons
Purpose: For accurately portioning mayo, yogurt, lemon juice, and other dressing ingredients.
Spoon or Silicone Spatula
Purpose: For stirring the dressing and folding all ingredients together gently.
Food Scale (Optional)
Purpose: Useful for precise measurements if you’re tracking portions or calories.
Airtight Storage Container
Purpose: For storing leftovers in the fridge. Keeps the salad fresh and prevents drying out.
Salad Spinner (Optional)
Purpose: If you’re serving the salad over greens, this helps you dry lettuce thoroughly for a crisp base.
Step-by-Step Instructions
This Panera-style chicken salad comes together in just a few easy steps. Follow this process for the perfect texture and flavor every time.
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Cook the Chicken:
Use cooked chicken breast, either poached, baked, grilled, or rotisserie.
Let it cool, then chop or shred into bite-sized pieces.
Season Lightly (Optional):
Add a pinch of salt and pepper if the chicken is unseasoned.
- Shortcut: Use leftover rotisserie chicken for quick prep and added flavor.
Step 2: Chop and Prep the Mix-Ins
- Celery: Dice finely for crunch and texture.
- Grapes: Slice red grapes in halves or quarters, depending on size.
- Almonds: Use sliced or slivered almonds. Toast them lightly for extra crunch if desired.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Dressing
In a medium bowl, whisk together the following:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons Greek yogurt (optional for a lighter taste)
- 1–2 teaspoons honey or maple syrup (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1–2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Mix until smooth and creamy.
Tip: Taste and adjust the sweetness or tang before mixing with the salad.
Step 4: Combine Everything
In a large mixing bowl:
- Add the chicken, celery, grapes, and almonds.
- Pour the dressing over the top.
- Gently fold everything together until evenly coated.
Don’t overmix. Stir just enough to combine without breaking the chicken or bruising the grapes.
Step 5: Chill Before Serving
Cover and refrigerate the chicken salad for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld. This also improves the texture and allows the dressing to slightly thicken.
Tips for Perfect Chicken Salad
To make your copycat Panera chicken salad truly exceptional, these expert tips will help you get the ideal texture, flavor balance, and freshness every time.
Use Cold, Cooked Chicken
Always start with fully cooled chicken. Warm chicken can make the dressing runny and change the salad’s consistency. For extra tender meat, poach the chicken in broth with aromatics like garlic, bay leaf, or peppercorns.
Chop Ingredients Evenly
Keep all mix-ins roughly the same size. This ensures you get a bit of everything in every bite. Avoid large chunks of grapes or chicken that can overwhelm the salad.
Toast the Almonds
Lightly toasting almonds in a dry pan enhances their flavor and adds a pleasant crunch. Let them cool before mixing them in to avoid softening the salad.
Don’t Overdress
Add the dressing gradually. You can always add more, but you can’t take it out. The salad should be well-coated but not soupy.
Chill Before Serving
Let the salad rest in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This gives the flavors time to meld and the texture to firm up. It tastes even better after a few hours or the next day!
Season to Taste
After chilling, taste and adjust the salt, pepper, or lemon juice before serving. The flavors can mellow over time, so a final seasoning tweak helps brighten everything.
Add Crunch Just Before Serving
If making ahead, reserve the almonds and add them right before serving to maintain their crunch.
Serving Suggestions
One of the best parts about this Panera-style chicken salad is how versatile it is. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch, a light dinner, or a party-friendly option, here are several delicious ways to serve it:
Classic Sandwich
- Spoon the chicken salad onto toasted sandwich bread, a croissant, or a brioche bun.
- Add a layer of leafy greens like romaine or butter lettuce for extra freshness and crunch.
- Optional: a slice of tomato or avocado for added flavor and creaminess.
Lettuce Wraps (Low-Carb Option)
Scoop the salad into large lettuce leaves like romaine, bibb, or iceberg. Perfect for a lighter, gluten-free alternative to bread.
Salad Bowl
Serve a generous scoop of chicken salad on a bed of mixed greens or spinach. Add extra toppings like cherry tomatoes, sliced cucumbers, or shredded carrots for a complete meal.
In a Wrap or Pita
Roll the chicken salad in a whole wheat tortilla or stuff it inside a pita pocket. Great for lunches or picnics, and easy to customize with added veggies.
Stuffed Tomatoes or Avocados
Hollow out large tomatoes or halved avocados and fill them with the chicken salad. Makes for an elegant presentation at brunches or gatherings.
On Crackers or Toast Points
Serve as an appetizer or snack by spooning small portions onto crackers, crostini, or toast. Ideal for party platters or a simple afternoon bite.
Meal Prep Boxes
Pack chicken salad in a container alongside fruit, veggies, cheese cubes, or nuts for an easy grab-and-go lunch. Keeps well in the fridge for several days, making it perfect for weekly meal prep.
Storage Guidelines
Chicken salad is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, you can store it to enjoy later. Proper storage will keep the salad fresh and maintain its texture for several days. Here’s everything you need to know about storing your chicken salad:
How to Store Chicken Salad
- Airtight Container: Always store the chicken salad in an airtight container to prevent air from drying it out or causing it to spoil prematurely.
- Refrigeration: Keep it in the refrigerator at or below 40°F (4°C). This will keep it safe to eat for several days.
Tip: If you’re using a bowl, make sure to cover it tightly with plastic wrap or a lid to lock in freshness.
Shelf Life
Best Within 3-4 Days:
For optimal taste and texture, eat the chicken salad within 3-4 days of making it. After this time, the ingredients may start to degrade, and the salad could become watery.
- Note: The dressing might begin to break down, especially if you’ve used Greek yogurt or fresh mayo. You may need to give it a quick stir before serving.
Can You Freeze Chicken Salad?
- Not Recommended: Freezing chicken salad isn’t ideal because the dressing (especially mayo-based) tends to separate and become grainy when thawed.
- However: If you must freeze it (for instance, if you’re using leftover cooked chicken), it’s best to freeze only the cooked chicken separately. Then, mix it with the fresh dressing and add-ins when ready to serve.
How to Revive Leftovers
If your chicken salad seems a bit dry after being stored, simply stir in a little more dressing (either homemade or store-bought). Add fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten up the flavors.
Nutritional Information
This copycat Panera chicken salad is not only delicious but can also be a balanced addition to your meals. Below is an approximate breakdown of the nutritional content per serving, based on a standard portion size of 1 cup of salad (without bread or additional sides).
Calories
Approx. 350-400 calories per serving (1 cup)
The calorie count depends on the specific ingredients used, such as the amount of mayonnaise and any additional mix-ins like fruits or nuts.
Protein
Approximately 30-35 grams of protein per serving
The chicken provides a generous amount of lean protein, making this salad filling and satisfying.
Fat
Around 20-25 grams of fat per serving
This includes the healthy fats from the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt (if used), and almonds. While the fat content may seem high, most of it comes from healthy sources that contribute to a well-rounded meal.
Carbohydrates
Around 10-12 grams of carbs per serving
Most of the carbs come from the fruits (grapes) and any added ingredients like celery. If you’re looking for a lower-carb option, you can reduce or omit the grapes.
Fiber
2-4 grams of fiber per serving
Celery and grapes provide some dietary fiber, which helps keep you feeling full longer. You can increase fiber content by adding more vegetables or using higher-fiber alternatives like whole grain bread if serving as a sandwich.
Sugar
Around 6-8 grams of sugar per serving
The natural sugars in the grapes and honey (if used) contribute to this figure. You can lower sugar content by omitting the honey or using a sugar-free sweetener.
Sodium
Approximately 500-600 milligrams of sodium per serving
The sodium content depends on the seasoning, chicken, and dressing. If you’re watching your salt intake, opt for a low-sodium mayo or yogurt, and adjust seasoning to your taste.
Vitamins & Minerals
- Vitamin C: Grapes and lemon juice provide a good amount of Vitamin C, which supports immune function.
- Calcium: A small amount from the mayonnaise and yogurt contributes to bone health.
- Iron: A moderate amount from the chicken and almonds.
Healthy Modifications
- To Lower Calories: Use a lighter or reduced-fat mayo, and swap some of the mayo for Greek yogurt.
- For Lower-Carb Options: Skip the grapes or use a lower-carb fruit like berries.
- To Boost Fiber: Add extra veggies, like spinach, kale, or shredded carrots, to the salad.
Conclusion
This copycat Panera chicken salad recipe is the perfect way to enjoy a delicious and satisfying meal at home. With its creamy dressing, tender chicken, crunchy almonds, and sweet grapes, it’s sure to become a favorite in your meal rotation. Whether you serve it in a sandwich, a salad bowl, or as a light snack, it’s versatile enough for any occasion. Plus, with simple ingredient substitutions and easy storage tips, you can customize it to fit your tastes or dietary needs. Give it a try today, and enjoy the fresh, flavorful goodness of Panera’s signature chicken salad—made by you!