Catch a whiff of the Applebee’s Oriental Chicken Salad, and your taste buds will do a little happy dance. Imagine tender chicken, crispy greens, crunchy almonds, and sweet-tangy dressing all coming together in a bowl of pure delight. It’s a salad so good that even the most die-hard burger fans may reconsider their life choices.

Now, picture this: it’s a hot summer day, the grill is sizzling, and you want something refreshing yet satisfying. That’s when this salad swoops in like a culinary superhero! With each bite, you’ll be taken on a flavor journey that feels like sunshine on your palate. Trust me; you won’t regret diving into this deliciousness.

Ingredients for Applebee’s Oriental Chicken Salad

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Use about 3-4 chicken breasts for optimal flavor. Make sure they are fresh for the best results.
• Mixed Salad Greens: A blend of romaine and baby spinach works wonderfully to provide texture and nutrition.
• Almonds: Sliced almonds add a delightful crunch; toasting them enhances their flavor.
• Mandarin Oranges: These juicy gems introduce a burst of sweetness that contrasts beautifully with savory elements.
• Crispy Chow Mein Noodles: They provide that necessary crunch factor while being an unexpected yet fun addition.

For the Dressing:

• Sesame Oil: Use this fragrant oil to bring out the nutty flavors in your salad.
• Soy Sauce: Low-sodium soy sauce helps control saltiness while providing depth of flavor.
• Honey: A natural sweetener that adds just the right amount of sweetness to balance the salty flavors.
• Rice Vinegar: This light vinegar adds acidity without overpowering other flavors.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

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How to Make Applebee’s Oriental Chicken Salad

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish with nonstick cooking spray and season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Bake them for about 20-25 minutes or until thoroughly cooked.

Step 2: Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together sesame oil, low-sodium soy sauce, honey, and rice vinegar until well combined. Taste it—if it doesn’t make you feel like you’ve been transported to an Asian street market, add more honey!

Step 3: Chop Your Veggies

While the chicken cooks, wash your mixed greens and chop them into bite-sized pieces.

Remember: no one wants to wrestle with a huge leaf while trying to enjoy their salad!

Step 4: Assemble Your Salad

Once the chicken has cooled slightly after baking, slice it into thin strips. In a large mixing bowl, combine mixed greens, sliced chicken, mandarin oranges, toasted almonds, and crispy chow mein noodles.

Step 5: Dress It Up

Drizzle your homemade dressing over the top of the salad mixture. Gently toss everything together until every leaf is coated in that scrumptious goodness.

Step 6: Serve It Up!

Transfer generous portions onto plates or bowls and garnish with additional chow mein noodles and almonds if desired. Trust me; it looks as good as it tastes!

And there you have it—the ultimate Applebee’s Oriental Chicken Salad! Perfect for those summer BBQs where everyone wants something fresh but filling. Enjoy every last bite as you bask in culinary glory!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by marinating the chicken to infuse it with flavor, then sear it to achieve that delightful golden crust. While the chicken is cooking, you can whip up your salad and dressing simultaneously for seamless efficiency.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out vegetables or add some crunchy nuts for extra texture. Consider using different proteins like turkey or beef if you’re feeling adventurous, or toss in seasonal fruits for a fun twist!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm the chicken in a skillet over low heat and serve fresh salad on the side.

I once made this dish for a potluck, and my friends devoured it before I could even grab a plate! Their compliments were endless, especially about how flavorful the chicken was—definitely a day I won’t forget!

FAQs:

What makes Applebee’s Oriental Chicken Salad special?

Applebee’s Oriental Chicken Salad stands out due to its unique blend of flavors and textures. The crispy chicken, fresh greens, and crunchy vegetables create a delightful contrast. The salad is often topped with a tangy Asian-inspired dressing that enhances its taste. By using chicken instead of pork and incorporating plant-based ingredients, this recipe offers a delicious alternative suitable for everyone.

How can I make a healthier version of Applebee’s Oriental Chicken Salad?

To create a healthier version of Applebee’s Oriental Chicken Salad, consider grilling the chicken instead of frying it. Use low-fat dressing or make your own using vinegar and fruit juice for a lighter option. Adding more vegetables like bell peppers or cucumbers boosts nutrition without compromising flavor. These adjustments keep the essence of the dish while making it more nutritious.

Can I prepare Applebee’s Oriental Chicken Salad in advance?

Yes, you can prepare Applebee’s Oriental Chicken Salad in advance. To maintain freshness, store the components separately until serving time. Keep the grilled chicken refrigerated and mix it with the greens right before serving to avoid wilting. The dressing can also be stored separately to drizzle on just before enjoying this flavorful salad.

What are some variations for Applebee’s Oriental Chicken Salad?

There are numerous variations for Applebee’s Oriental Chicken Salad to suit different tastes. You can substitute grilled turkey or beef for chicken if desired. Additionally, try adding fruits like mandarin oranges or nuts for extra flavor and crunch. Experimenting with different dressings or incorporating quinoa can further enhance this versatile salad while keeping it delicious.

Conclusion for Applebee’s Oriental Chicken Salad:

In summary, making your own version of Applebee’s Oriental Chicken Salad allows you to enjoy this tasty dish at home while avoiding specific ingredients. By substituting pork products with chicken or turkey and opting for plant-based gelling agents, you’ll create a delightful meal that satisfies cravings without compromising dietary preferences. With fresh ingredients and flavorful dressings, this salad remains a favorite among many!

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Applebee’s Oriental Chicken Salad

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• Author: Adeline
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Applebee’s Oriental Chicken Salad is a vibrant and satisfying dish that combines tender chicken, crisp greens, crunchy almonds, and a sweet-tangy dressing. Perfect for warm summer days or as a refreshing meal any time of year, this salad delivers a burst of flavor in every bite. It’s easy to prepare, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights or gatherings.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 3–4 Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts (about 1 lb)
• 6 cups Mixed Salad Greens (romaine and baby spinach)
• 1/2 cup Sliced Almonds (toasted)
• 1 cup Mandarin Oranges (canned or fresh)
• 1 cup Crispy Chow Mein Noodles
• 1/4 cup Sesame Oil
• 1/4 cup Low-Sodium Soy Sauce
• 2 tbsp Honey
• 2 tbsp Rice Vinegar

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a baking dish and season chicken with salt and pepper. Bake for 20-25 minutes until cooked through.
2. In a bowl, whisk together sesame oil, soy sauce, honey, and rice vinegar until combined.
3. While the chicken cooks, wash and chop mixed greens into bite-sized pieces.
4. Once the chicken cools slightly, slice it thinly. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, sliced chicken, mandarin oranges, toasted almonds, and chow mein noodles.
5. Drizzle dressing over the salad mixture and toss gently until fully coated.
6. Serve in bowls garnished with additional chow mein noodles and almonds if desired.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Salad
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Asian-American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bowl (approximately 400g)
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 11g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 26g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 20g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 24g
• Cholesterol: 75mg

Keywords: For extra flavor, marinate the chicken before baking. Customize your salad by swapping out vegetables or adding seasonal fruits. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.