Perfect Panera Chicken Salad Sandwich Recipe is a delightful meal you can easily make at home. I have always loved the taste of this sandwich, and after experimenting with different ingredients, I found the perfect way to recreate it. This Perfect Panera Chicken Salad Sandwich Recipe is simple, delicious, and ideal for lunch or a light dinner. If you love Panera’s version, you will enjoy this homemade alternative. In this blog, I will share my tried-and-tested method for making the Perfect Panera Chicken Salad Sandwich Recipe with fresh ingredients and step-by-step instructions.
Ingredients for The Perfect Panera Chicken Salad Sandwich Recipe
- 2 cups cooked and shredded fresh chicken (rotisserie or boiled)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup diced celery
- 1/4 cup diced red onion
- 1/2 cup seedless grapes (halved)
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans
- 4 croissants or whole grain bread
- Lettuce leaves
How to Make The Perfect Panera Chicken Salad Sandwich Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Cook and shred the chicken into small pieces. For added flavor, you can shred fresh rotisserie chicken or boiled chicken breasts with a clean fork.
Step 2: Mix the Dressing
Combine mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper in a large bowl. Stir well until smooth and creamy.
Step 3: Add Vegetables and Fruits
Add diced celery, red onion, and grapes to the dressing. Mix well to combine the flavors.
Step 4: Incorporate the Chicken and Nuts
Add the shredded chicken and chopped pecans to the mixture. Stir until everything is
well-coated with the dressing.
Step 5: Chill the Mixture
Cover the bowl carefully and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This helps enhance the flavors.
Step 6: Assemble the Sandwich
Slice the croissants or whole-grain bread. Place fresh lettuce leaves on the bottom half, then generously spread the Perfect Panera Chicken Salad Sandwich Recipe mixture over the lettuce.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Place the top half of the bread over the filling and press gently. Cut in half and serve immediately for the best taste.
Serving and Enjoying the Perfect Panera Chicken Salad Sandwich Recipe
Scoop the Perfect Panera Chicken Salad Sandwich Recipe mixture generously onto fresh bread or croissants. Enjoy each bite, as fresh ingredients’ creamy texture and crunch create the perfect balance. Serve with chips, a side salad, or a bowl of fresh, warm soup for a complete meal.
Chef’s Tips for The Perfect Panera Chicken Salad Sandwich Recipe
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh chicken, crisp celery, and juicy grapes enhance the overall taste.
- Toast the Bread: Lightly toasting the croissants or bread adds a delicious crunch.
- Chill Before Serving: Letting the salad sit in the active fridge for at least 30 minutes helps the flavors blend.
- Adjust the Creaminess: Add more mayonnaise or Greek yogurt if you like it creamier.
- Add a Twist: Add a dash of honey or a squeeze of some fresh lemon juice for extra flavor.
Nutrition Information for The Perfect Panera Chicken Salad Sandwich Recipe
Per serving (1 sandwich)
- Calories: 450-500 kcal
- Protein: 30g
- Fat: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 600mg
Note: Nutrition values may vary based on some ingredient brands and portion sizes.
Here are some related recipe names for the Perfect Panera Chicken Salad Sandwich Recipe
- Classic Chicken Salad Sandwich
- Panera-Inspired Napa Almond Chicken Salad
- Honey Mustard Chicken Salad Sandwich
- Avocado Chicken Salad Sandwich
- Cranberry Walnut Chicken Salad
- Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad Sandwich
- Spicy Buffalo Chicken Salad Wrap
- Apple Pecan Chicken Salad Sandwich
- Lemon Herb Chicken Salad
- Curried Chicken Salad Croissant
FAQs about the Perfect Panera Chicken Salad Sandwich Recipe
1. Can I make the Perfect Panera Chicken Salad Sandwich Recipe beforehand?
Ans: Store it in an airtight, clean container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
2. What bread works best for the Perfect Panera Chicken Salad Sandwich Recipe?
Ans: Croissants, whole grains, or ciabatta bread work well.
3. Can I substitute mayonnaise in the Perfect Panera Chicken Salad Sandwich Recipe?
Ans: You can use more Greek yogurt or avocado for a healthier option.
4. Is the Perfect Panera Chicken Salad Sandwich Recipe gluten-free?
Ans: Use gluten-free bread to make it gluten-free.
5. Can I add more ingredients to the Perfect Panera Chicken Salad Sandwich Recipe?
Ans: You can add apples, cranberries, or almonds for extra flavor.
Conclusion
The Perfect Panera Chicken Salad Sandwich Recipe is an easy and absolutely delicious meal you can make at home with simple ingredients. The combination of tender chicken, creamy dressing, fresh veggies, and sweet grapes creates a satisfying taste. Whether you serve it on croissants or whole-grain bread, this recipe is perfect for any occasion. Give it a try, and enjoy the homemade version of your favorite sandwich!