Applebee's Asian Chicken Salad copycat

Introduction

This Applebee’s Asian Chicken Salad copycat recipe is a perfect blend of ease, flavor, and creativity, using everyday ingredients that you likely have in your pantry. The combination of crunchy vegetables, savory chicken, and a tangy Asian-inspired dressing makes for a dish that’s both refreshing and satisfying. With its straightforward preparation and impressive results, this salad is ideal for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The best part? It requires minimal effort but yields a dish that tastes like it was made in a high-end restaurant.

Why This Works

• Flavor balance and ingredient accessibility: This recipe strikes a perfect balance between sweet, sour, salty, and umami flavors, making it appealing to a wide range of palates. The ingredients are also easily accessible in most supermarkets, making it convenient to prepare.
• Ease of preparation: The steps involved in preparing this salad are simple and straightforward, requiring minimal cooking and preparation time. This makes it an excellent option for those with busy schedules or who are new to cooking.
• Impressive results with minimal effort: Despite its simplicity, this salad presents beautifully and tastes sophisticated, making it perfect for entertaining guests or special occasions without requiring hours of preparation.

Ingredients

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
• 1 cup sliced red bell pepper
• 1 cup sliced carrots
• 1/2 cup sliced cucumber
• 1/2 cup crispy wonton strips
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for some heat)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions

1. Step 1: Begin by preparing the chicken. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, grated ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using). Place the chicken pieces in a separate bowl, pour the marinade over them, and toss to coat. Let it marinate for at least 10 minutes, or up to 30 minutes in the refrigerator.
2. Step 2: Cook the chicken. Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate and let it rest.
3. Step 3: Prepare the salad components. Slice the red bell pepper, carrots, and cucumber. In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, sliced vegetables, crispy wonton strips, and chopped cilantro.
4. Step 4: Assemble the salad. Slice the rested chicken into strips. Place the chicken on top of the salad. In a small bowl, whisk together the dressing ingredients (soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, and grated ginger). Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Handy Tips

• For a crisper salad, make sure to dry the washed greens thoroughly before combining them with other ingredients. You can also prepare the components ahead of time and store them in separate containers in the refrigerator until ready to assemble.
• Substitute the chicken with tofu or tempeh for a vegan version, and adjust the marinade accordingly.
• Avoid over-dressing the salad, as it can become soggy. Dress just before serving for the best results.

Heat Control

If you’re cooking the chicken, it’s essential to control the heat to achieve the perfect doneness. Cook the chicken over medium-high heat to get a nice brown on the outside, then reduce the heat to medium to cook it through. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C) to ensure food safety. Use a thermometer to check the temperature, especially if you’re unsure.

Crunch Factor

The crunch factor in this salad comes from the crispy wonton strips and the fresh vegetables. To maintain the crunch, it’s crucial to add the wonton strips just before serving, as they can become soggy if exposed to the dressing for too long. Also, slice the vegetables just before assembling the salad to preserve their texture.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

• Use a mandoline to slice the vegetables thinly and evenly, which helps in achieving a uniform texture throughout the salad.
• Prepare a large batch of the dressing and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. This way, you can quickly assemble the salad whenever you want.
• For an extra crispy wonton strip, bake the strips in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for a few minutes until golden brown, instead of deep-frying them.

Storage Tips

• Store the prepared salad components in separate, airtight containers in the refrigerator. The mixed greens can be stored for up to 3 days, while the sliced vegetables and cooked chicken can last for up to 2 days.
• Reheat the chicken gently before adding it to the salad, either by microwaving it for a few seconds or by heating it in a pan with a little oil over low heat.
• Assemble the salad just before serving to prevent it from becoming soggy. If you must prepare it ahead, dress the salad just before serving.

Gift Packaging Ideas

This salad is perfect for gifting, especially for potlucks or as a healthy meal option for friends and family. Consider packaging the salad in a large, decorative bowl or individual mason jars. Add a ribbon around the bowl or jar, along with a gift tag that includes the recipe and a personal message. You can also include a small bottle of the dressing on the side, allowing the recipient to dress the salad to their taste.

Flavor Variations

• Different spices: Add some heat to your salad by incorporating red pepper flakes or sliced jalapeños into the dressing. For a smoky flavor, add a pinch of smoked paprika.
• Creative toppings: Consider adding other toppings such as diced mango, sliced almonds, or pickled ginger to give your salad a unique twist.
• Ingredient swaps: Swap the chicken with grilled shrimp or tofu for a different protein source. You can also use different types of greens or add some quinoa for extra nutrition.

Troubleshooting

• Texture problems: If your salad becomes soggy, it might be due to over-dressing or not storing the components properly. Try to dress the salad just before serving and store the components in airtight containers.
• Ingredient replacements: If you can’t find a particular ingredient, don’t hesitate to substitute it with something similar. For example, you can use balsamic vinegar instead of rice vinegar, although the flavor will be slightly different.
• Over/undercooking signs: Make sure to cook the chicken to the correct internal temperature to avoid undercooking. Overcooking can make the chicken dry, so aim for a juicy and tender texture.

FAQs

• Can I freeze it? While you can freeze the cooked chicken and some of the vegetables, it’s not recommended to freeze the assembled salad, as the textures and flavors might not hold up well. However, you can prepare the components ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to a day before assembling the salad.
• Is it gluten-free? This salad recipe is gluten-free, making it an excellent option for those with gluten intolerance. Just ensure that the soy sauce and any store-bought ingredients are gluten-free.
• Can I double the recipe? Yes, you can easily double or triple this recipe to serve a larger crowd. Just remember to adjust the cooking time for the chicken if you’re preparing a larger quantity.

Conclusion

This Applebee’s Asian Chicken Salad copycat recipe is a versatile and delicious dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its balance of flavors, textures, and ease of preparation, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different ingredients and toppings to make the recipe your own, and enjoy the process of creating something truly special. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this salad is a great way to impress your family and friends with minimal effort. So go ahead, give it a try, and share your creations with us!