Introduction: Why You’ll Love This Copycat Panera Bread Chicken Salad Recipe
Craving Panera’s famous Napa Almond Chicken Salad? This easy, homemade version hits all the right notes—creamy, crunchy, sweet, and savory. Made with tender chicken, juicy grapes, and toasted almonds, it’s perfect for sandwiches, wraps, or a light lunch. It’s fresh, fast, and better than takeout. Keep reading to learn how to make this spot-on copycat at home!
Ingredient Overview and Substitutions
To make a delicious Panera-style chicken salad, you’ll need a few simple ingredients. Each plays a key role in giving the salad its signature taste and texture. Here’s a breakdown of what you need and how you can customize it:
Main Ingredients
- Cooked Chicken: Use shredded or diced cooked chicken breast. Rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut for convenience and flavor.
- Red Grapes: Sweet, seedless red grapes add a juicy burst to every bite. Halve them for better texture and balance.
- Celery: Adds a fresh crunch and balances the creamy dressing.
- Sliced Almonds: Toasted almonds provide nutty flavor and crunch. Slivered almonds also work well.
Creamy Dressing Ingredients
- Mayonnaise: The base of the dressing. Use full-fat for richness or light mayo for a healthier option.
- Plain Greek Yogurt (optional): Swap part of the mayo for Greek yogurt for added protein and a tangy twist.
- Dijon Mustard: Adds a slight tang and depth to the dressing.
- Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice brightens the flavor and balances the creaminess.
- Salt & Pepper: Simple seasoning to taste.
Optional Add-ins and Swaps
- Apples: Diced apples can add extra sweetness and crunch.
- Pecans or Walnuts: A great alternative to almonds if you prefer a different nutty flavor.
- Dried Cranberries: For added sweetness and texture.
- Green Onions or Chives: Add a mild onion flavor without overpowering the salad.
- Honey: A small drizzle in the dressing can balance tanginess with a hint of sweetness.
Dietary Adjustments
- Dairy-Free: Use only mayo and skip yogurt, or choose a dairy-free yogurt alternative.
- Low-Carb/Keto: Skip grapes and add more crunchy veggies like cucumber or bell pepper.
Tools and Equipment Needed
Making this copycat Panera chicken salad is simple and doesn’t require any special kitchen gear. Still, having the right tools can make prep quicker and more efficient. Here’s what you’ll need:
Basic Tools
- Cutting Board: Use a sturdy board for chopping chicken, grapes, celery, and other add-ins. If handling raw chicken, it’s best to use a separate board or clean thoroughly before reuse.
- Sharp Knife: A chef’s knife or utility knife is essential for slicing and dicing ingredients evenly and quickly.
- Mixing Bowls: Medium to large bowls work best for combining ingredients. One for the chicken and mix-ins, and one for the dressing.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measuring helps maintain the flavor balance, especially in the dressing.
- Whisk or Fork: Useful for blending the dressing until smooth and creamy.
- Spoon or Spatula: For folding the salad together without breaking down the tender ingredients.
Optional but Helpful
- Salad Spinner: If you’re serving the chicken salad over greens, a salad spinner ensures crisp, dry lettuce.
- Toaster or Skillet: If you’re using almonds that need to be toasted, you can do it in a dry skillet or a toaster oven for better flavor.
- Storage Containers: Airtight containers are perfect for chilling the salad and keeping leftovers fresh for several days.
Tools and Equipment Needed
Making this copycat Panera chicken salad is simple and doesn’t require any special kitchen gear. Still, having the right tools can make prep quicker and more efficient. Here’s what you’ll need:
Basic Tools
- Cutting Board: Use a sturdy board for chopping chicken, grapes, celery, and other add-ins. If handling raw chicken, it’s best to use a separate board or clean thoroughly before reuse.
- Sharp Knife: A chef’s knife or utility knife is essential for slicing and dicing ingredients evenly and quickly.
- Mixing Bowls: Medium to large bowls work best for combining ingredients. One for the chicken and mix-ins, and one for the dressing.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measuring helps maintain the flavor balance, especially in the dressing.
- Whisk or Fork: Useful for blending the dressing until smooth and creamy.
- Spoon or Spatula: For folding the salad together without breaking down the tender ingredients.
Optional but Helpful
- Salad Spinner: If you’re serving the chicken salad over greens, a salad spinner ensures crisp, dry lettuce.
- Toaster or Skillet: If you’re using almonds that need to be toasted, you can do it in a dry skillet or a toaster oven for better flavor.
- Storage Containers: Airtight containers are perfect for chilling the salad and keeping leftovers fresh for several days.
How to Prepare the Chicken
The chicken is the foundation of this salad, so preparing it right is key. You want tender, juicy chicken that’s easy to shred or chop. Here are several methods to choose from, depending on your time and preferences.
Best Chicken Options
Rotisserie Chicken:
This is the quickest and most flavorful option. Simply remove the skin, shred or dice the meat, and you’re ready to go. Great for busy days or last-minute meals.
Poached Chicken:
A clean, simple way to get moist chicken. Place boneless, skinless chicken breasts in a pot, cover with water or broth, and simmer gently for about 15–20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Let it cool slightly, then shred or dice.
Baked or Roasted Chicken:
For a more robust flavor, season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and a touch of oil, then bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes. Let it rest before cutting to retain the juices.
Leftover Chicken:
Got some leftover grilled or roasted chicken? Dice it up and use it here—just make sure the seasonings won’t overpower the dressing.
Shredded vs. Diced: Which is Better?
- Shredded Chicken: Gives the salad a more textured, rustic feel. It mixes well with the creamy dressing and clings to it nicely.
- Diced Chicken: Offers a neater presentation and a firmer bite. Perfect if you prefer chunkier chicken salad.
Both options work well, so choose based on your personal preference.
Pro Tip: Chill the Chicken Before Mixing
Warm or hot chicken can make the salad watery and cause the dressing to separate. Let the chicken cool completely in the fridge before combining it with other ingredients. This helps the salad hold its creamy consistency and keeps everything fresh.
Making the Dressing
The dressing is the heart of this chicken salad, bringing together the creamy, tangy, and slightly sweet flavors. It’s simple to make, and you can easily customize it to suit your taste. Here’s how to prepare the perfect dressing for your Panera-inspired chicken salad.
Basic Ingredients for the Dressing
Mayonnaise:
This is the primary base of the dressing. It gives the salad a rich, creamy texture. If you’re looking for a lighter version, you can use reduced-fat mayo, or even Greek yogurt for a tangier twist.
Plain Greek Yogurt (optional):
This is optional but highly recommended for a creamy texture with a bit of tang. It helps balance out the richness of the mayo, making the dressing lighter and adding some protein.
Dijon Mustard:
Dijon mustard adds a subtle kick and depth to the dressing without being overpowering. It also helps emulsify the dressing, making it smooth.
Lemon Juice:
Fresh lemon juice brightens the flavor and cuts through the creaminess of the mayo. It also provides a refreshing balance to the richness of the other ingredients.
Salt & Pepper:
Simple seasonings, but don’t skip them. They enhance all the flavors in the dressing and bring out the natural sweetness of the grapes and chicken.
How to Make the Dressing
Combine the Base Ingredients:
In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup of mayonnaise and 1/4 cup of Greek yogurt (if using). These two ingredients form the creamy base.
Add Mustard and Lemon:
Stir in about 1–2 tablespoons of Dijon mustard and 1–2 teaspoons of fresh lemon juice. Adjust to your taste, depending on how tangy you want the dressing.
Season:
Add salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste. Start with a pinch of salt and a few cracks of pepper, then adjust as needed.
Whisk Until Smooth:
Whisk everything together until the dressing is smooth and well-combined. The goal is a creamy consistency that will coat the chicken and veggies perfectly.
Pro Tip: Make Ahead for Extra Flavor
For the best flavor, make the dressing ahead of time and refrigerate it for 30 minutes to 1 hour before using. This allows the flavors to meld together and develop more depth.
Optional Variations
Honey:
If you like a bit of sweetness, add a small drizzle of honey to the dressing. It complements the grapes and almonds beautifully.
Apple Cider Vinegar:
For an extra tang, you can swap lemon juice with a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar.
Herbs:
Add fresh herbs like dill, parsley, or tarragon for added freshness and depth.
Combining the Salad
Now that you’ve prepared the chicken and dressing, it’s time to combine everything into a delicious, balanced chicken salad. This step is where all the flavors and textures come together to create the perfect dish.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the Ingredients:
Ensure that your chicken is fully cooked and cooled, then shred or dice it into bite-sized pieces. Slice the grapes in half to make them easier to eat and ensure an even distribution throughout the salad. Chop the celery into small, uniform pieces for crunch.
Toast the Almonds (optional):
If you’re using slivered almonds, toasting them brings out their flavor and adds a pleasant crunch. Simply place them in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 2–3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown. Be careful not to burn them! Let them cool before adding them to the salad.
Add the Mix-ins:
In a large mixing bowl, add the shredded chicken, halved grapes, chopped celery, and toasted almonds. This is the base of your salad, and each ingredient contributes something special: the chicken for protein, grapes for sweetness, celery for crunch, and almonds for nuttiness.
Pour in the Dressing:
Add the prepared dressing to the salad mixture, starting with about half of it. Toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly. If you prefer a creamier salad, add more dressing until you reach your desired consistency.
Taste and Adjust:
Taste the salad and adjust the seasonings if necessary. You can add more salt, pepper, or lemon juice to brighten it up. If you like a sweeter salad, consider adding a drizzle of honey or a pinch of sugar.
Pro Tip: Be Gentle When Tossing
When mixing the salad, be gentle to avoid breaking up the chicken or crushing the grapes. Use a large spoon or spatula to fold the ingredients together carefully.
Chill Before Serving
For the best flavor and texture, let the chicken salad chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving. Chilling helps the dressing set and lets the flavors meld together, making the salad even more delicious.
Serving Suggestions
Panera’s Napa Almond Chicken Salad is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch, a hearty meal, or a way to impress guests, here are several serving suggestions to make your salad shine.
As a Sandwich
A classic way to enjoy chicken salad is in a sandwich. For a true Panera-inspired experience:
- Bread: Use a hearty, crusty bread like sourdough, multigrain, or a fresh baguette. The chewy texture complements the creamy chicken salad beautifully.
- Lettuce: Add a few crisp lettuce leaves, such as romaine or butter lettuce, for freshness and crunch.
- Extras: You can add sliced tomatoes or avocado for extra flavor and richness.
Spread the chicken salad generously on one slice of bread and top with the other. Slice it in half for an easy, handheld lunch.
In Lettuce Wraps
If you’re looking for a low-carb or gluten-free option, lettuce wraps are a great choice. Simply use large, sturdy lettuce leaves (like iceberg or romaine) to wrap up the chicken salad. These wraps are crisp, light, and fresh—perfect for a healthy lunch or snack.
On a Bed of Greens
For a lighter, refreshing take, serve the chicken salad over a bed of mixed greens or spinach. This option makes a great salad that’s both filling and nutritious. Add additional toppings like sliced cucumber, cherry tomatoes, or shredded carrots for more variety and crunch.
In a Croissant or Roll
For something a bit more indulgent, serve the chicken salad inside a buttery, flaky croissant or roll. The richness of the pastry complements the creamy dressing, making this a more decadent way to enjoy the dish.
As a Snack or Appetizer
Serve small scoops of the chicken salad with crackers or on cucumber slices for a light appetizer. It’s a great option for parties, picnics, or gatherings, offering a bite-sized version of this delicious dish.
With Fruit or Nuts
If you’re serving the salad as a side or on a platter, pair it with fresh fruit (like apple slices or grapes) or additional toasted nuts. The sweetness of the fruit and the crunch of the nuts enhance the salad’s flavor and texture.
In a Wrap or Pita Pocket
For a portable meal, spread the chicken salad inside a whole wheat wrap or pita pocket. Add a handful of mixed greens or spinach and roll it up. It’s a perfect on-the-go meal for lunch or a picnic.
With a Side of Chips or Sweet Potato Fries
Pair the chicken salad with crunchy sides like potato chips, sweet potato fries, or even crispy baked zucchini fries. These provide a salty, crispy contrast to the creamy, fresh salad.
Pro Tip: Make It a Complete Meal
To round out the meal, consider pairing your chicken salad with a cold beverage like iced tea, lemonade, or a chilled sparkling water. A light dessert, such as fruit salad or a small scoop of sorbet, can be the perfect way to finish the meal.
Storage Tips
If you happen to have leftovers or want to prepare the chicken salad ahead of time, proper storage is essential to maintain its freshness and flavor. Here are some helpful tips for storing your Panera-inspired chicken salad:
Refrigeration
Chicken salad can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. To ensure it stays fresh:
- Airtight Container: Store the salad in a sealed airtight container to prevent moisture from getting in and to preserve the flavors. Glass containers with tight-fitting lids are ideal, but any plastic container with a good seal will work.
- Keep the Dressing Separate: If you plan on storing the salad for more than a day or two, it’s a good idea to store the dressing separately and add it when you’re ready to serve. This will help prevent the salad from becoming too soggy.
Freezing (Not Recommended)
While freezing chicken salad is generally not recommended due to the texture changes in the ingredients (especially the mayo and yogurt), the chicken itself can be frozen separately if you need to store it long-term.
- Freeze the Chicken: If you have leftover cooked chicken, shred it and store it in a freezer-safe bag or container. It will last up to 3 months in the freezer. You can thaw it in the fridge and then add it to a fresh batch of salad.
- Avoid Freezing the Whole Salad: Freezing the entire salad with the dressing will likely result in a watery and unappetizing texture once thawed, especially with the grapes and mayo-based dressing.
Reheating and Serving Leftovers
If you have leftover chicken salad, there’s no need to reheat it since it’s usually enjoyed cold. Simply pull it from the fridge and give it a gentle stir before serving. If the salad has become a bit too thick after refrigeration, you can loosen it up by adding a splash of lemon juice or a little extra dressing to bring back its creamy consistency.
Best Practices for Leftovers
- Use within 3-4 Days: For the best quality, it’s best to consume the salad within 3 to 4 days of making it. After that, the texture of the ingredients, especially the grapes and celery, may begin to deteriorate.
- Check for Freshness: Always check the salad for any signs of spoilage, such as an off smell or unusual discoloration, especially after a few days. If anything looks or smells strange, it’s best to discard it.
Pro Tip: Prep Ahead for Convenience
To make meal prep easier, you can prep the salad components ahead of time. Store the chicken, chopped veggies, and toasted almonds separately in the fridge. Make the dressing ahead of time as well, and then combine everything on the day you plan to serve. This keeps the ingredients fresh and prevents sogginess.
Recipe Variations
One of the best things about making your own chicken salad is the ability to customize it based on your preferences, dietary needs, or what you have on hand. Here are several tasty variations and tweaks you can try to make your Panera-inspired chicken salad your own.
Add More Fruits
Apples:
For an extra crunch and sweetness, dice up an apple (such as Fuji or Granny Smith) and add it to the salad. The tartness of the Granny Smith balances the sweetness of the grapes, while the Fuji apple adds a milder flavor. Apples bring a crisp bite that contrasts nicely with the creamy dressing.
Dried Cranberries:
If you’re looking for a pop of sweetness and a chewier texture, add a handful of dried cranberries. Their slight tartness complements the grapes and almonds, making the salad even more flavorful.
Pineapple:
For a tropical twist, add some finely chopped pineapple. Its natural sweetness and juiciness can enhance the salad, giving it a bright, fresh flavor.
Switch Up the Nuts
Pecans:
Swap out almonds for chopped pecans. Their rich, buttery flavor adds a unique depth to the salad. Toast them lightly to bring out their natural oils, and they’ll add an extra layer of warmth to the dish.
Walnuts:
Walnuts are another great option, offering a slightly bitter, earthy flavor that balances out the sweetness of the grapes and fruits. Chopped walnuts provide a satisfying crunch, just like almonds or pecans.
Cashews:
If you want a creamier, softer crunch, cashews can be a wonderful substitute. Their mild flavor pairs well with the other ingredients, adding richness without overwhelming the taste.
Change the Dressing
Greek Yogurt-Based Dressing:
For a tangier, healthier version, use only Greek yogurt in place of the mayo. This makes the dressing lighter and boosts the protein content, making it a great choice for those looking to cut down on calories or fat.
Honey Mustard Dressing:
If you want a sweeter and tangier profile, try swapping Dijon mustard for honey mustard in the dressing. The honey will add a subtle sweetness that pairs beautifully with the grapes and chicken.
Vinaigrette Dressing:
For a lighter, less creamy alternative, opt for a simple vinaigrette made with olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and a touch of honey. This will give the chicken salad a tangy, refreshing flavor without the richness of mayo.
Try a Different Protein
Turkey:
For a lighter variation, use diced turkey breast instead of chicken. This works especially well if you have leftover Thanksgiving turkey or roasted turkey breast.
Canned Tuna:
If you want a quick, pantry-friendly option, canned tuna works as a great substitute for chicken. Make sure to drain it well and toss it in with the grapes, nuts, and dressing.
Rotisserie Chicken with a Twist:
Mix things up by using different flavored rotisserie chickens, like lemon herb or barbecue, to bring a completely new flavor to the salad.
Add Fresh Herbs
Dill:
Fresh dill gives the salad a bright, fresh flavor with a slightly tangy note. Add finely chopped dill to the dressing or directly into the salad for a burst of herbaceousness.
Parsley or Chives:
Fresh parsley or chives bring a mild, grassy flavor to the salad. These herbs add freshness without overpowering the other ingredients. Simply chop them finely and fold them in for added color and flavor.
Make It Spicy
Jalapeños or Red Pepper Flakes:
For a bit of heat, add finely chopped jalapeños or sprinkle red pepper flakes into the salad. The spicy kick pairs well with the creamy dressing and gives the salad an exciting twist.
Chipotle Mayo:
For a smoky, spicy dressing, add a little chipotle powder or chipotle sauce to the mayonnaise base. This version adds a layer of heat and smokiness that complements the other ingredients beautifully.
Low-Carb or Keto-Friendly Version
Skip the Grapes:
If you’re following a low-carb or keto diet, skip the grapes and add more low-carb veggies like cucumber, celery, or bell peppers. You can also include a few berries (like strawberries or raspberries) for a small touch of sweetness without the carbs.
Use Lettuce or Cabbage:
Instead of serving the salad on bread or in a wrap, opt for large, crisp lettuce leaves like romaine or iceberg, or use cabbage leaves to create a low-carb wrap.
Make a Larger Batch for Meal Prep
Double the Recipe:
If you’re meal prepping for the week, make a double or triple batch and store the salad in individual containers. Keep the dressing on the side to prevent sogginess, and assemble as needed throughout the week.
Batch Toasted Nuts:
Toast a large batch of almonds, pecans, or walnuts, and store them in an airtight container. Add them to your salad as needed, and they’ll stay fresh and crunchy for several days.
Nutrition
Understanding the nutritional breakdown of your Panera-inspired chicken salad can help you make informed choices based on your dietary needs. This section will provide an overview of the key nutrients in the salad and how you can adjust the recipe to fit various health goals.
General Nutritional Information
The nutritional content of this chicken salad can vary depending on the ingredients you use (such as the type of dressing or the amount of nuts), but here’s a basic breakdown for a typical serving:
Calories: Approximately 350-450 calories per serving (1 cup)
The calorie count depends on the exact ingredients, such as the amount of mayonnaise or yogurt used in the dressing. Using Greek yogurt or a lighter mayo can reduce the overall calorie count.
Protein: Around 25-30 grams per serving
Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, making this salad a filling option that can help keep you satisfied for longer. The protein count may increase if you add more chicken or use Greek yogurt for the dressing.
Fat: About 25-30 grams per serving
The healthy fats come primarily from the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt (if used), and nuts like almonds. While this is on the higher side, the fats are mostly unsaturated, which are heart-healthy when consumed in moderation. Opting for lighter mayo or using less dressing can help reduce the fat content.
Carbohydrates: Roughly 15-20 grams per serving
The carbs come mainly from the grapes and any fruit you may add to the salad. If you’re following a low-carb or keto diet, you can skip the grapes or swap them for lower-carb fruits like berries.
Fiber: Approximately 3-5 grams per serving
The celery, nuts, and any added fruits or veggies provide a good amount of fiber, which is beneficial for digestion and helps keep you full.
Sugar: Around 8-12 grams per serving
The majority of the sugar comes from the grapes or fruit you add. Grapes are naturally sweet, but the sugar content remains fairly moderate compared to other desserts or sweetened foods.
Sodium: Varies between 300-500 mg per serving
The sodium content depends largely on the amount of salt added and whether you’re using store-bought mayo or rotisserie chicken, both of which can be higher in sodium. You can control this by using a low-sodium mayo or homemade chicken without added salt.
Vitamins and Minerals
Vitamin A:
This chicken salad contains a moderate amount of vitamin A, especially if you use leafy greens or fresh herbs as part of the base.
Vitamin C:
Grapes, celery, and any added fruits provide vitamin C, an important antioxidant that supports immune health. You can boost the vitamin C content by adding more citrus or fresh fruits like strawberries.
Calcium:
The calcium content is generally low in this salad, but using Greek yogurt in the dressing will provide a modest amount of calcium. Almonds also contain a small amount of calcium.
Iron:
The iron content will vary depending on whether you add leafy greens or nuts. While chicken is a source of iron, it’s not as high as red meat. If you’re looking to boost your iron intake, consider adding spinach or leafy greens to the salad.
How to Make the Recipe Healthier
Lower Calories:
To reduce the calorie count, opt for light mayonnaise or Greek yogurt in place of full-fat mayo. You can also use less dressing and increase the amount of chicken or vegetables for a filling meal that’s lower in calories.
Lower Fat:
To cut down on fat, reduce the amount of nuts or use toasted sunflower seeds instead of almonds or pecans, which are lower in fat.
Lower Carbs:
For a keto-friendly version, remove the grapes and substitute them with low-carb fruits like berries or extra vegetables like cucumbers. You could also serve the salad in lettuce wraps instead of bread.
Increase Fiber:
Add more fiber by including ingredients like avocado, shredded cabbage, or chia seeds. These additions will make the salad more filling and help improve digestion.
Dietary Considerations
Gluten-Free:
This recipe is naturally gluten-free, as long as you serve it on gluten-free bread or in lettuce wraps.
Low-Carb/Keto:
To make this recipe keto-friendly, omit the grapes and serve the salad in lettuce wraps or with keto-friendly crackers.
Dairy-Free:
If you’re following a dairy-free diet, substitute the Greek yogurt and mayo with a dairy-free version of each. Coconut-based yogurt and vegan mayo work well as alternatives.
Nut-Free:
If you have a nut allergy, you can omit the almonds and replace them with sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, or even roasted chickpeas.
Conclusion
Panera Bread Chicken Salad Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- If not already done, cook and shred the chicken. Finely dice the celery and red onion. Slice the grapes into quarters.
- In a large mixing bowl, add all of the dressing ingredients together. Mix until well combined.
- panera bread chicken salad dressing mixed in glass bowl.
- Add the rest of the ingredients to the mixing bowl: shredded chicken, diced celery, onions, red grapes, and sliced almonds. Fold together until everything is well coated.
- panera bread chicken salad ingredients in glass bowl.
- Build the sandwiches! Add lettuce and sliced tomatoes onto one half of each sandwich and ¼ of the chicken salad recipe to the other piece of bread.
- Fold the sandwiches together and enjoy fresh! It’s so flavorful, you’ll love it!