Name: Delicious Applebee’s Oriental Chicken Salad Made at Home
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 2 pieces Chicken breast (Boneless); 1 cup Breadcrumbs (Panko recommended); 1 piece Egg (Or flaxseed mixture if avoiding eggs); 4 cups Mixed greens (Your favorite leafy greens); 2 cups Cabbage (Green, purple, or napa varieties); 1/2 cup Sliced almonds (Or substitute with peanuts); 1/4 cup Sesame oil (Toasted for deeper taste); 2 tablespoons Soy sauce (Low-sodium recommended); 1 tablespoon Sugar (Feel free to use alternative sweeteners)

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At the crossroads of busy weekday nights and culinary comfort, I discovered something incredible: a homemade version of Applebee’s Oriental Chicken Salad. This vibrant dish combines crispy breaded chicken with a colorful medley of fresh greens and crunchy cabbage, all topped off with a drizzle of tangy sesame dressing. The best part? It’s not only a quick meal solution perfect for busy nights, but also a delightful crowd-pleaser for casual get-togethers. Each bite offers the familiar tastes of your favorite restaurant salad, allowing you to relish the flavors at home without sacrificing quality. Stick around; I promise, once you try this recipe, you might find yourself craving it more often than your usual takeout!

Why Make This Applebee’s Salad at Home?

Simplicity at Its Best: Whip up this dish in under 30 minutes! Even beginner cooks can create this restaurant favorite with ease.

Crispy Delight: The combination of fried chicken and crunchy almonds provides a satisfying texture that will have your taste buds dancing.

Freshness Delivered: A crisp bed of mixed greens and cabbage adds a refreshing crunch, making every bite a delight.

Versatile for All: Looking for a vegetarian option? Simply swap chicken with tofu or chickpeas for a delicious twist.

Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, this salad is sure to impress your guests, just like my other favorites, the Hawaiian Chicken Salad and Buffalo Chicken Salad.

You’ll love the homemade taste that rivals the restaurant experience!

Applebee’s Oriental Chicken Salad Ingredients

• To recreate the restaurant experience, gather these essentials for a flavorful dish.

For the Crispy Chicken

Chicken breast – The star of the salad; choose boneless for easy cooking.
Breadcrumbs – Adds essential crunch; consider using panko for extra crispiness.
Egg – Binds the breadcrumbs to the chicken; if avoiding eggs, a flaxseed mixture works great.

For the Salad Base

Mixed greens – Provides a fresh backbone for the dish; feel free to mix in your favorite leafy greens.
Cabbage – For crunch; green, purple, or napa varieties can enhance the texture.

For the Topping

Sliced almonds – These add a delightful nutty flavor; substitute with peanuts for a different crunch.

For the Dressing

Sesame oil – Key for providing the signature flavor; use toasted sesame oil for a deeper taste.
Soy sauce – Adds salty depth; opt for low-sodium to cut back on salt.
Sugar – Balances out the savory elements; feel free to use alternative sweeteners if desired.

Enjoy crafting a homemade version of Applebee’s Oriental Chicken Salad with these fresh and simple ingredients!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Applebee’s Oriental Chicken Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Begin by heating oil in a deep skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). While the oil heats, bread your chicken breast by dipping it first in beaten egg and then coating it with breadcrumbs. Carefully place the chicken in the hot oil, frying for about 5–6 minutes on each side until it’s golden brown and crispy. Use tongs to ensure even cooking.

Step 2: Mix the Greens
While the chicken fries, grab a large bowl and combine your mixed greens with shredded cabbage. Aim for a vibrant mix of colors to enhance the visual appeal of your Applebee’s Oriental Chicken Salad. Toss the greens gently to distribute them evenly. This colorful base will add freshness and a satisfying crunch to every bite of your homemade salad.

Step 3: Add the Almonds
Once your greens are evenly mixed, add the sliced almonds to the bowl. Sprinkle them over the top to maintain their crunchiness and distribute their nutty flavor through the salad. The almonds will not only enhance the texture but also provide a delightful contrast to the crispy chicken that will soon be added, making the entire dish really pop.

Step 4: Slice the Chicken
After frying, remove the chicken from the skillet and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. Allow it to cool for a few moments, then slice it into strips. This slicing will make it easy to distribute the crispy chicken throughout your Applebee’s Oriental Chicken Salad, ensuring each serving gets a generous portion.

Step 5: Whisk the Dressing
In a medium bowl, whisk together sesame oil, soy sauce, and sugar until the mixture is combined and slightly thickened. This homemade dressing is crucial for bringing the flavors of the salad together, so whisk thoroughly to incorporate all ingredients fully. The sweet and savory notes will beautifully complement the fresh greens and crispy chicken in your salad.

Step 6: Toss and Serve
Pour the dressing over the mixed greens and almonds, and toss gently to coat everything evenly. Once the salad is well-dressed, top it with the sliced chicken, allowing the warmth of the chicken to slightly wilt the greens for an inviting presentation. Serve your freshly prepared Applebee’s Oriental Chicken Salad immediately for the best flavor and texture.

How to Store and Freeze Applebee’s Oriental Chicken Salad

Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keep the fried chicken separate from the dressed salad to maintain crispiness.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the chicken separately from the salad components. The chicken will stay fresh for up to 2 months; just thaw and reheat before serving.

Reheating: To reheat the chicken, place it in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes until crispy. Avoid reheating the salad to retain its fresh quality.

Make-Ahead: You can assemble the salad up to 2 hours ahead but dress it just before serving to keep the greens crisp and vibrant.

Applebee’s Oriental Chicken Salad Variations

Feel free to let your creativity shine and adapt this delightful salad to your taste!

Vegetarian Delight: Replace the chicken with crispy tofu or chickpeas for a protein-packed vegetarian option.
Tofu can soak up flavors beautifully, creating a savory experience similar to the original chicken.
Sweet Boost: Add fresh fruits like mandarin oranges or sliced strawberries for a refreshing sweetness.
These fruits will complement the savory elements perfectly, adding a burst of flavor in every bite!
Nutty Swap: Use peanuts instead of almonds for a different nutty flavor and unique crunch.
This alternative can tie in beautifully with Asian flavors, giving your salad a new twist to savor.
Extra Crunch: Toss in shredded carrots or cucumber for additional texture and freshness.
Their crispness will elevate the salad, balancing perfectly with the fried chicken and dressing.
Spicy Kick: Drizzle in some Sriracha or add sliced jalapeños if you’re looking for a bit of heat.
This twist can awaken your taste buds, making the salad even more exciting without overwhelming it.
Homemade Dressing: Experiment with a creamy dressing by mixing mayonnaise with sesame oil and soy sauce.
A creamy dressing brings a rich texture while still keeping the essential flavors intact.
Herb Infusion: Sprinkle in fresh herbs, like cilantro or mint, to add a refreshing layer of flavor.
These herbs can brighten up the dish, creating a delightful taste profile that’s sure to impress!

For a broader range of delicious salads, check out my favorites like the Chicken Bacon Salad or the Mediterranean Chicken Pasta Salad. Enjoy experimenting!

What to Serve with Copycat Applebee’s Oriental Chicken Salad

Create a delightful dining experience by pairing this refreshing salad with complementary dishes that enhance its vibrant flavors.

Crispy Breadsticks: Serve warm breadsticks with a buttery finish to soak up any leftover dressing and add a comforting touch.
Miso Soup: This light and savory soup offers a gentle contrast to the salad’s crunch, balancing textures beautifully.
Sweet Potato Fries: Their natural sweetness and crispy exterior provide a satisfying bite, making a hearty side that pairs perfectly.
Grilled Asparagus: The slight char and freshness of asparagus elevate the meal, introducing a seasonal element that enhances flavor profiles.
Fruit Salad: A mix of fresh fruits adds a sweet and juicy contrast, brightening the plate and cleansing the palate between bites.
Chilled White Wine: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or light Pinot Grigio pairs wonderfully with the salad, complementing its tangy sesame dressing.
Chocolate Mousse: End your meal on a sweet note with a rich chocolate mousse, contrasting the salad’s lightness and adding a dash of indulgence.

Tips for the Best Applebee’s Oriental Chicken Salad

• Fry in Batches: Avoid overcrowding the pan while frying the chicken, which can lead to uneven cooking and soggy breading.

• Use Hot Oil: Ensure your oil is hot enough before adding the chicken; this enhances the crunchiness and locks in flavors.

• Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh greens and crunchy cabbage to elevate the taste and texture of your Applebee’s Oriental Chicken Salad.

• Adjust the Dressing: For a lighter version, feel free to use less sugar or a low-fat alternative in the dressing while maintaining its delicious flavor.

• Serve Immediately: For the best experience, serve the salad right after tossing it with the dressing to keep the textures fresh and vibrant.

Make Ahead Options

These Copycat Applebee’s Oriental Chicken Salad components are perfect for meal prep! You can prepare the salad base (mixed greens, cabbage, and almonds) up to 3 days in advance. Simply refrigerate them in an airtight container to maintain freshness. The crispy chicken can be breaded and fried up to 24 hours ahead as well; just store it in a separate container to ensure it remains crunchy. When you’re ready to serve, slice the chicken and toss all ingredients with the dressing to bring it together. This way, you’ll experience the same delicious flavors without last-minute stress on busy weeknights!

Applebee’s Oriental Chicken Salad Recipe FAQs

What kind of chicken should I use for this salad?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, boneless chicken breasts are the ideal choice. If you’re short on time, rotisserie chicken is a fantastic alternative—just shred it and toss it into your salad.

How can I ensure the salad stays fresh when stored?
Very! To keep leftovers fresh, store the fried chicken separately in an airtight container for up to 3 days, while the dressed salad can begin to wilt. Just portion it out right before serving to maintain that satisfying crunch!

Can I freeze the chicken for later use?
Definitely! To freeze, allow the cooked chicken to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe bag. It’ll last up to 2 months—just remember to thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes to regain its crispy texture.

What if I want to make this salad vegetarian?
Very good question! To make a delicious vegetarian version of Applebee’s Oriental Chicken Salad, simply replace the chicken with tofu or chickpeas, both of which provide great protein. You can marinate and roast the tofu for extra flavor!

How can I troubleshoot sogginess in my salad?
If your salad ends up soggy, try this tip: always keep the fried chicken separate until serving, and dress the salad right before enjoying it. Also, using fresh and crisp vegetables ensures a delightful crunch throughout.

What should I consider regarding allergies when making this salad?
Absolutely! If you or your loved ones have allergies, be cautious with the sesame dressing—soy sauce can contain gluten, and almonds can be an allergen for some. Consider using tamari, a gluten-free soy sauce, and substitute almonds with sunflower seeds for a safe, nut-free alternative.