Applebees oriental chicken salad recipe: a delightful dish featuring crisp greens, juicy chicken, and a tangy dressing, perfect for a light yet satisfying meal.
This vibrant salad combines crispy fried chicken with fresh greens, crunchy noodles, and a distinctive sesame-ginger dressing, creating a symphony of flavors and textures. It’s a refreshing and satisfying meal that balances savory and sweet elements.
Imagine biting into succulent pieces of fried chicken, their crispy coating giving way to tender meat, all mingling with the cool, crisp lettuce and the satisfying crunch of toasted almonds and fried wonton strips. The tangy-sweet dressing, with its notes of ginger and sesame, ties everything together, creating a flavor explosion that is both familiar and exciting.
While its origins may not be strictly “oriental,” this salad draws inspiration from Asian flavors and ingredients, offering a Westernized take on classic tastes. Its widespread popularity speaks to its universal appeal and ability to satisfy diverse palates.
This recipe’s appeal lies in its versatility. It can be easily adapted to suit individual preferences, whether it’s adjusting the sweetness of the dressing, swapping out the protein, or adding extra vegetables. It’s a perfect choice for a quick lunch, a light dinner, or even a potluck gathering.
Variations often include additions like mandarin oranges, edamame, or different types of nuts for added texture and flavor. Some prefer using grilled chicken instead of fried, while others experiment with different dressing recipes to find their perfect balance. Regional twists might incorporate local produce or unique flavor combinations.
Ready to recreate this iconic salad in your own kitchen? Follow along for a detailed guide to creating a dish that is sure to become a new favorite.
Flavorful Sesame Dressing
The flavorful sesame dressing is the linchpin of any successful attempt to recreate the applebees oriental chicken salad recipe. It isn’t merely a condiment; it’s the flavor bridge that unifies the diverse ingredients, transforming them into a cohesive and memorable dish. Its absence or a poorly executed substitute will inevitably result in a dish that misses the mark.
The specific combination of ingredients in this dressing sesame oil, rice vinegar, soy sauce, ginger, and a touch of sweetness creates a complex flavor profile. The sesame oil lends a nutty richness, while the rice vinegar provides a tangy counterpoint. Soy sauce contributes umami, deepening the overall flavor, and ginger adds a subtle warmth and spice. This intricate balance is crucial; too much of one ingredient can throw off the entire flavor profile.
Mastering the art of this flavorful sesame dressing is paramount. Achieving the correct balance ensures the salad’s distinct character. Without it, the dish lacks its soul, falling short of the beloved classic. Experimentation is encouraged, but understanding the fundamental role of each ingredient is the key to success.
Crispy Chicken Texture
The allure of this salad experience is significantly heightened by the contrast between the fresh, crisp vegetables and the satisfying crunch of the chicken. This texture is not merely a superficial element; it’s integral to the overall enjoyment of the dish.
- Breading TechniquesAchieving the ideal crispiness requires careful attention to the breading process. A light, even coating of seasoned flour or panko breadcrumbs provides the perfect surface for developing a golden-brown crust. Double-dredging or using a cornstarch mixture can enhance the crispness further. Understanding how the choice of breading affects the final texture is paramount.
- Frying TemperatureMaintaining the correct oil temperature during frying is crucial. Too low, and the chicken will absorb excess oil, resulting in a soggy texture. Too high, and the breading will burn before the chicken cooks through. The ideal temperature range ensures that the chicken cooks evenly and develops a perfectly crisp exterior. A deep-fry thermometer is a valuable tool.
- Chicken Size and ShapeThe size and shape of the chicken pieces influence cooking time and crispness. Smaller, uniformly sized pieces cook more quickly and evenly, ensuring a consistent texture throughout. Thinly sliced chicken breasts or tenders are ideal choices for achieving maximum crispness in a short amount of time. Avoiding overcrowding the frying pan is important.
- Resting TimeAllowing the fried chicken to rest briefly on a wire rack after frying is essential. This allows excess oil to drain away and helps the breading to maintain its crispness. Resting prevents the chicken from becoming soggy and ensures that each bite delivers the desired textural contrast.
In essence, crispy chicken texture transforms the applebees oriental chicken salad recipe from a simple salad into a truly satisfying culinary experience. It demonstrates how the proper technique can enhance a flavor profile and enrich meal enjoyment, making it a must-have for any home chef.
Fresh, Crunchy Veggies
No recreation of this salad is complete without a generous helping of fresh, crunchy vegetables. This element is not merely a garnish; it’s a vital component that contributes both flavor and texture, elevating the dish from ordinary to extraordinary.
- Lettuce BaseCrisp romaine or iceberg lettuce provides a cool, refreshing foundation for the salad. The lettuce’s subtle flavor allows the other ingredients to shine, while its satisfying crunch adds a delightful textural contrast to the chicken and dressing. Choosing the freshest, crispest lettuce is key to achieving the desired effect.
- Cabbage and CarrotsShredded cabbage and carrots introduce a vibrant splash of color and a touch of sweetness. Their slightly earthy notes complement the richness of the chicken and the tanginess of the dressing. These vegetables also contribute essential nutrients, making the salad a more wholesome and balanced meal. The vibrant color improves visual appeal.
- Bean Sprouts or EdamameFor an extra layer of crunch and a boost of protein, bean sprouts or shelled edamame are excellent additions. Bean sprouts offer a delicate, slightly nutty flavor, while edamame provides a more substantial bite. Both options enhance the salad’s nutritional value and add a unique textural element. Offers interesting contrasting textures.
- Optional GarnishesThinly sliced cucumbers, bell peppers, or scallions can be added for additional flavor and visual appeal. These optional garnishes allow for customization and personalization, catering to individual preferences. Fresh herbs like cilantro or mint can also be incorporated for a burst of freshness. Experiment with different combinations of garnishes to elevate the flavor profile.
The thoughtful inclusion of fresh, crunchy veggies transforms this salad into a symphony of textures and flavors. The interplay between the crisp vegetables, the crunchy chicken, and the tangy dressing is what makes this recipe so irresistible. A well-balanced salad will be both visually appealing and satisfying to eat, making it a perfect choice for a light lunch or a refreshing dinner. These crunchy fresh components are key.
Recipe Metadata
- Categories: Main Dishes, Summer Recipes
- Courses: Lunch, Dinner, Soups and Salads
- Cuisines: American, Asian-Inspired
- Keywords: Salad, Chicken, Sesame Dressing, Quick and Easy
Estimated Cost: $18.00 total
Preparation Time & Yield
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Recipe Yield: Serves 4 people
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- 8 cups mixed salad greens
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1 cup shredded red cabbage
- 1/2 cup sliced green onions
- 1/2 cup toasted sliced almonds
- 1/2 cup crispy wonton strips
- 1/2 cup sesame ginger dressing (see dressing recipe below)
Sesame Ginger Dressing Ingredients
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1: Prepare the Chicken: Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. In a shallow dish, combine the flour, salt, and pepper. In a separate dish, beat the eggs. In a third dish, place the panko breadcrumbs. Dredge each piece of chicken in the flour mixture, then dip it in the beaten eggs, and finally coat it with the panko breadcrumbs, ensuring each piece is fully coated.
- Step 2: Fry the Chicken: Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot (around 350F or 175C), carefully add the breaded chicken pieces in a single layer, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and place it on a wire rack to drain excess oil.
- Step 3: Make the Sesame Ginger Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the vegetable oil, rice vinegar, soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, grated ginger, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes (if using). Whisk until all ingredients are well combined and the dressing is emulsified. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
- Step 4: Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the mixed salad greens, shredded carrots, shredded red cabbage, and sliced green onions. Toss gently to combine.
- Step 5: Dress and Serve: Divide the salad mixture among four plates. Top each salad with the crispy fried chicken pieces, toasted sliced almonds, and crispy wonton strips. Drizzle generously with the sesame ginger dressing. Serve immediately.
Optional Tips: For a lighter version, bake the breaded chicken instead of frying. Preheat the oven to 400F (200C), place the breaded chicken on a baking sheet, and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through and golden brown. Alternatively, grill the chicken for a smoky flavor. Adjust the dressing ingredients to suit individual taste preferences. Add a splash of lime juice for extra tang, or more honey for added sweetness.
Nutritional Information
Approximate nutritional values per serving:
| Nutrient | Amount Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 550 kcal |
| Fat | 30g |
| Saturated Fat | 5g |
| Cholesterol | 100mg |
| Sodium | 700mg |
| Carbohydrates | 45g |
| Fiber | 5g |
| Sugar | 20g |
| Protein | 30g |
Essential Cooking Equipment
- Large skillet or deep fryer
- Mixing bowls (various sizes)
- Whisk
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Shallow dishes (for breading)
- Wire rack
- Tongs or slotted spoon
- Deep-fry thermometer (optional, but recommended)
Variations
The applebees oriental chicken salad recipe offers considerable room for adaptation. These modifications can cater to dietary needs, personal preferences, or regional ingredient availability.
- Ingredient Swaps: Grilled or baked tofu can replace the chicken for a vegetarian option. Quinoa or brown rice can substitute the salad greens for a heartier base. Honey-roasted peanuts or cashews offer an alternative to almonds. Rice noodles or chow mein noodles can replace wonton strips.
- Regional Twists: A Korean-inspired variation might incorporate kimchi and gochujang into the dressing. A Southeast Asian version could include chopped peanuts, fresh mint, and a lime-based dressing. A Southwestern adaptation could feature black beans, corn, and a chipotle-lime dressing.
- Dietary Adjustments: To reduce the fat content, bake the chicken instead of frying. Use a sugar substitute like stevia or erythritol in the dressing for a lower-sugar option. Gluten-free panko breadcrumbs and tamari (gluten-free soy sauce) can adapt the recipe for gluten-free diets.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is ideally suited for a light lunch or a refreshing dinner, especially during warmer months. Consider serving it as a main course or as a side dish at a potluck or barbecue. The salad can be plated individually or served family-style in a large bowl. Complementary pairings include a crisp white wine or a light iced tea. For a more substantial meal, serve with a side of steamed rice or spring rolls.
Storage Tips
For optimal freshness, store the components of the salad separately. The cooked chicken should be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The dressing can be stored in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The mixed greens and vegetables should be stored in a separate airtight container in the refrigerator, ideally with a paper towel to absorb excess moisture. Avoid assembling the salad until just before serving to prevent the greens from becoming soggy. Once assembled, the salad is best consumed immediately. Leftovers, if any, should be discarded due to potential moisture absorption and loss of crispness.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Question 1: Can the chicken be prepared in advance?
The chicken can be cooked ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator. However, it is best reheated before adding to the salad to maintain crispness. - Question 2: Can the dressing be made ahead of time?
Yes, the dressing can be prepared several days in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Allow it to come to room temperature or shake well before using. - Question 3: Can I use pre-shredded cabbage and carrots?
Pre-shredded vegetables can be used as a time-saving shortcut. However, freshly shredded vegetables generally offer superior flavor and texture. - Question 4: What is the best way to prevent the salad from becoming soggy?
The best way to prevent a soggy salad is to store the components separately and assemble just before serving. Avoid adding the dressing until the last minute. - Question 5: Can I use a different type of oil for frying the chicken?
Yes, other high-heat oils such as canola oil, peanut oil, or grapeseed oil can be used as alternatives to vegetable oil.
Summary & Final Thoughts
This recipe offers a delightful combination of textures and flavors, from the crispy chicken and crunchy vegetables to the tangy-sweet sesame ginger dressing. It’s a satisfying meal that’s easy to customize to your liking and perfect for any occasion.
Whether you want to swap out ingredients, adjust the spice level, or experiment with different toppings, this recipe is incredibly versatile. Feel free to make it your own and adapt it to suit your preferences.
We encourage you to give this recipe a try and experience the deliciousness for yourself! Don’t forget to share your results with us, leave a comment, or explore our other exciting recipes for more culinary inspiration.
Happy cooking! Let us know how yours turns out!
Easy Applebees Oriental Chicken Salad Recipe Secret
Equipment
- Large skillet or deep fryer
- Mixing Bowls (various sizes)
- Whisk
- Cutting board
- Chef's knife
- Shallow dishes (for breading)
- Wire Rack
- Tongs or slotted spoon
- Deep-fry thermometer (optional, but recommended)
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- 8 cups mixed salad greens
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1 cup shredded red cabbage
- 1/2 cup sliced green onions
- 1/2 cup toasted sliced almonds
- 1/2 cup crispy wonton strips
- 1/2 cup sesame ginger dressing (see dressing recipe below)
- Sesame Ginger Dressing Ingredients
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1: Prepare the Chicken: Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. In a shallow dish, combine the flour, salt, and pepper. In a separate dish, beat the eggs. In a third dish, place the panko breadcrumbs. Dredge each piece of chicken in the flour mixture, then dip it in the beaten eggs, and finally coat it with the panko breadcrumbs, ensuring each piece is fully coated.
- Step 2: Fry the Chicken: Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot (around 350F or 175C), carefully add the breaded chicken pieces in a single layer, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and place it on a wire rack to drain excess oil.
- Step 3: Make the Sesame Ginger Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the vegetable oil, rice vinegar, soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, grated ginger, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes (if using). Whisk until all ingredients are well combined and the dressing is emulsified. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
- Step 4: Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the mixed salad greens, shredded carrots, shredded red cabbage, and sliced green onions. Toss gently to combine.
- Step 5: Dress and Serve: Divide the salad mixture among four plates. Top each salad with the crispy fried chicken pieces, toasted sliced almonds, and crispy wonton strips. Drizzle generously with the sesame ginger dressing. Serve immediately. Optional Tips: For a lighter version, bake the breaded chicken instead of frying. Preheat the oven to 400F (200C), place the breaded chicken on a baking sheet, and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through and golden brown. Alternatively, grill the chicken for a smoky flavor. Adjust the dressing ingredients to suit individual taste preferences. Add a splash of lime juice for extra tang, or more honey for added sweetness.
Notes
Variations
The applebees oriental chicken salad recipe offers considerable room for adaptation. These modifications can cater to dietary needs, personal preferences, or regional ingredient availability.
- Ingredient Swaps: Grilled or baked tofu can replace the chicken for a vegetarian option. Quinoa or brown rice can substitute the salad greens for a heartier base. Honey-roasted peanuts or cashews offer an alternative to almonds. Rice noodles or chow mein noodles can replace wonton strips.
- Regional Twists: A Korean-inspired variation might incorporate kimchi and gochujang into the dressing. A Southeast Asian version could include chopped peanuts, fresh mint, and a lime-based dressing. A Southwestern adaptation could feature black beans, corn, and a chipotle-lime dressing.
- Dietary Adjustments: To reduce the fat content, bake the chicken instead of frying. Use a sugar substitute like stevia or erythritol in the dressing for a lower-sugar option. Gluten-free panko breadcrumbs and tamari (gluten-free soy sauce) can adapt the recipe for gluten-free diets.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is ideally suited for a light lunch or a refreshing dinner, especially during warmer months. Consider serving it as a main course or as a side dish at a potluck or barbecue. The salad can be plated individually or served family-style in a large bowl. Complementary pairings include a crisp white wine or a light iced tea. For a more substantial meal, serve with a side of steamed rice or spring rolls.
Storage Tips
For optimal freshness, store the components of the salad separately. The cooked chicken should be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The dressing can be stored in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The mixed greens and vegetables should be stored in a separate airtight container in the refrigerator, ideally with a paper towel to absorb excess moisture. Avoid assembling the salad until just before serving to prevent the greens from becoming soggy. Once assembled, the salad is best consumed immediately. Leftovers, if any, should be discarded due to potential moisture absorption and loss of crispness.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Question 1: Can the chicken be prepared in advance?
The chicken can be cooked ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator. However, it is best reheated before adding to the salad to maintain crispness. - Question 2: Can the dressing be made ahead of time?
Yes, the dressing can be prepared several days in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Allow it to come to room temperature or shake well before using. - Question 3: Can I use pre-shredded cabbage and carrots?
Pre-shredded vegetables can be used as a time-saving shortcut. However, freshly shredded vegetables generally offer superior flavor and texture. - Question 4: What is the best way to prevent the salad from becoming soggy?
The best way to prevent a soggy salad is to store the components separately and assemble just before serving. Avoid adding the dressing until the last minute. - Question 5: Can I use a different type of oil for frying the chicken?
Yes, other high-heat oils such as canola oil, peanut oil, or grapeseed oil can be used as alternatives to vegetable oil.
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