Inspired by Panera’s famous Napa Almond Chicken Salad, this homemade version is just as tasty and easy to make! Panera may have removed it from the menu, but you can still enjoy this favorite at home.
So, Panera, what’s wrong? Have you decided to revamp your menu and remove my favorite items? Based on my overwhelming response to you, based on my elimination of the Napa Almond Chicken Salad from your menu, I can tell I am not alone in my disappointment.
Thankfully, about five years ago I decided to choose Panera’s ingredients list. I decided to find a way to make my own version at home, it worked! This recipe has become a 5-star reader’s favorite and of all of my beloved chicken salad recipes, it’s my favorite too!
It’s the perfect lunch choice, but also makes for a simple soup or sandwich dinner.
Ingredient Notes
Changed from Panera ingredient list. This is what you need to bring this absolutely delicious chicken salad together.
Chicken: This recipe is an excellent way to use rotisserie chicken or use your own fully cooked boneless skinless chicken breast. Like the Panera version, I chop the chicken rather than shredded the chicken for more texture. Mayonnaise: All recipes for chicken salad use healthy fat mayonnaise, like Mayo in olive oil. For up to half of mayonnaise, it can be easily brightened by replacing light (fat-reducing) sour cream or non-fat plain Greek yogurt. I do this often! We do not recommend eliminating mayonnaise completely. Fresh produce: diced celery and half or quarter of red grapes. Seasoning: The dried spice combination adds a really nice and fresh punch of Herbie’s flavour. Dried grand mustard, onion powder, crushed rosemary, basil, finely ground sea salt, freshly ground black pepper. Vinegar: Apple cider vinegar adds a tangy kick to the dressing. Honey: For a touch of sweetness. Almonds: Lightly toasted sliced almonds. For sandwiches: Assemble the sandwich into sourdough bread sliced with green leaf lettuce and sliced tomatoes. This is how they serve it in Panera, but you can add or replace the toppings you love.
How to make Napa Almond Chicken Salad
Before mixing the chicken salad, lightly toast the almonds to enhance the flavor and texture. Spread them on a rimmed baking sheet and toast in a 350° F oven for a few minutes. Let the remaining ingredients cool while preparing.
Add the chicken, grapes and celery to a large mixing bowl. Combine the dressing ingredients in another small bowl. Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and spoon it until the dressing is well incorporated. Add the cooled almonds and mix gently.
Provide suggestions
Sandwiches: We love this chicken salad stacked in a sturdy sandwich pan with sliced tomatoes and greens. Spin between sliced sourdough and thick sliced whole grain bread.
Low Carb Options: Roll up to a low carb wrap with your selected toppings. Or try scooping it up into endibretus leaves for a light lunch. Very satisfying and crispy!
Storage Tips
Chicken salads served with mayonnaise or dairy-based dressing should be stored in airtight containers and refrigerated immediately. For the best quality, enjoy within 3-4 days.
Chicken salad recipes you’ll love
My love for chicken salad doesn’t know the scope! When guests stay, I always make several different versions so I can grab sandwiches and wraps day and night. It’s the perfect make-ahead meal. These are some of my favorites.
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Napa Almond Chicken Salad (Panella Copy Cat)
Inspired by Panera’s famous Napa Almond Chicken Salad, this homemade version is just as tasty and easy to make! Panera may have removed it from the menu, but you can still enjoy this favorite at home.
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 350°F.
Place the almonds on a small baking sheet and transfer to the oven for 3-4 minutes or until lightly golden brown. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool.
Add the chicken, grapes and celery to a large mixing bowl.
Combine the dressing ingredients in another small bowl. Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and mix to incorporate the dressing. Add the cooled almonds and mix gently.
Separate the mixture between the bread and top with tomatoes and green leaf lettuce.
Note
Storage
Store the chicken salad in an airtight container and refrigerate immediately. For the best quality, enjoy within 3-4 days.
nutrition
Serving: 1 sandwich ・ calorie: 545 kcal ・ carbohydrates: 41 g ・ protein: 28 g ・ fat: 28 g ・ Saturated fat: 4 g ・ Polyunsaturated fat: 1 g ・ January Saturated Fat: 1 g ・ Trans Fat: 1 g ・ cholesterol: 71 mg ・ sodium: 750 mg ・ potassium: 330 mg ・ fiber: 2 g ・ sugar: 7 g ・ Vitamin A: 230 iu ・ Vitamin C: 5 mg ・ calcium: 51 mg ・ iron: 3 mg
Nutrition information is automatically calculated using common ingredients and is an estimate rather than a guarantee. See the home ingredients label for more accurate results.
This post was originally published on June 10th, 2020. Updated with new text and images.
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