Napa Almond Chicken Salad (Panera Copycat)

If you love Panera’s Napa Almond Chicken Salad, you’re in for a treat! This homemade version is creamy, crunchy, and bursting with flavor—loaded with tender chicken, toasted almonds, and sweet grapes in a perfectly seasoned dressing. It’s an easy, refreshing meal that’s perfect for sandwiches, wraps, or just eating by the spoonful!

Panera’s famous Napa Almond Chicken Salad is a delightful combination of savory and sweet flavors, featuring tender, shredded chicken tossed with crunchy toasted almonds, juicy red grapes, and a creamy, slightly tangy dressing.

This fan-favorite salad is known for its perfect balance of textures and flavors, making it a go-to choice for a light yet satisfying meal. Whether served on a buttery croissant, wrapped in a tortilla, or enjoyed over a bed of greens, this beloved dish offers a refreshing twist on classic chicken salad. Its blend of wholesome ingredients and irresistible taste makes it a staple for Panera lovers everywhere!

Ingredients Needed For Panera Chicken Salad Recipe

• Sliced almonds: Crunchy, nutty almonds add texture and flavor.
• Cooked chicken breast: Tender, juicy, and flavorful protein base.
• Red grapes: Sweet, juicy grapes balance savory ingredients.
• Diced celery: Crisp, fresh crunch enhances texture.
• Mayonnaise: Creamy, rich base for the dressing.
• Fresh lemon juice: Bright, tangy citrus for freshness.
• Honey: Natural sweetness balances flavors beautifully.
• Apple cider vinegar: Slight tang adds depth and balance.
• Dry ground mustard: Subtle spice enhances the dressing.
• Onion powder: Mild, savory onion flavor throughout.
• Dried crushed rosemary: Earthy, aromatic herb for depth.
• Fine ground sea salt: Enhances overall flavors perfectly.
• Dried basil: Subtle, slightly sweet herbal note.
• Freshly ground black pepper: Adds mild heat and warmth.
• Sourdough sandwich bread: Hearty, tangy base for sandwiches.
• Tomatoes: Juicy, fresh slices add brightness.
• Green leaf lettuce: Crisp, refreshing crunch in each bite.

How to Make Napa Almond Chicken Salad

Step One: Preheat your air fryer temperature to 375 degrees F (190°C). Lightly season boneless, skinless chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil. Place them in the air fryer basket and set cook time for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway through. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Let the chicken rest before chopping.

Step Two: While the chicken cools downs, add sliced almonds to the air fryer basket in a single layer. Air fry at 325 degrees F (163°C) for 3–5 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through until golden brown and fragrant. Set aside.

Step Three: In a mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, lemon juice, honey, apple cider vinegar, dry mustard, onion powder, crushed rosemary, basil, salt, and black pepper until smooth.

Step Four: Chop the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces. In a large bowl, combine chicken, toasted almonds, diced celery, and halved grapes. Pour the dressing over and mix until well coated.

Step Five: Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Serve on sourdough bread, over lettuce, or as a wrap for a delicious meal.

Chicken Salad Panera Recipe Tips

• Use Rotisserie Chicken: For convenience and added flavor, use rotisserie chicken. It saves time and adds a delicious, smoky taste to the salad.
• Toast the Almonds: Lightly toast the sliced almonds in a dry pan or the oven before adding them to the salad. This enhances their flavor and adds a bit of crunch.
• Add Grapes at the End: Add the grapes just before serving to keep them fresh and juicy. If you add them too early, they can lose some of their sweetness.
• Use Fresh Lemon Juice: Always use fresh lemon juice for the dressing instead of bottled lemon juice. The fresh flavor brightens up the entire salad.
• Customize the Dressing: Adjust the sweetness and tanginess of the dressing by tweaking the amount of honey, vinegar, and mustard. Taste and adjust to your liking.
• Let it Chill: Allow the chicken salad to chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together and makes the salad even more delicious.
• Serve on Fresh Bread or Lettuce: You can serve the chicken salad on toasted sourdough bread for a classic sandwich or use large lettuce leaves for a lighter, low-carb wrap.

Storing

Store Napa Almond Chicken Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best results, keep the dressing separate until ready to serve to prevent the salad from becoming soggy.

Serving Suggestions For Panera Chicken Salad Recipe

For a delicious and satisfying meal, serve your Napa Almond Chicken Salad on toasted sourdough bread for a classic sandwich, or enjoy it in a fresh wrap with lettuce for a lighter option. You can also serve it on a bed of mixed greens or with crunchy crackers for a refreshing and easy appetizer or side dish.

Chicken Salad Panera Recipe Faqs

Can I use a different type of chicken for this recipe? Yes, you can substitute rotisserie chicken with grilled or baked chicken breast. Just ensure the chicken is fully cooked and shredded or chopped.

Can I make Napa Almond Chicken Salad ahead of time? Absolutely! This salad can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Just make sure to add the dressing before serving for the best flavor and texture.

Is it possible to make this recipe without almonds? Yes, if you prefer, you can omit the almonds or substitute them with other nuts like walnuts or pecans for a different texture and flavor.

Can I use a different kind of bread for the sandwich? Yes, you can use any bread you like, such as whole wheat, ciabatta, or a baguette, depending on your preference.

Can I make the dressing without mayonnaise? If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or sour cream for a creamy but healthier alternative.

How can I make this recipe vegetarian? You can substitute the chicken with a plant-based protein like chickpeas or tofu, or use a vegan mayo for the dressing to keep the recipe vegetarian.

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