Applebee’s Asian Chicken Salad copycat

Introduction

This Applebee’s Asian Chicken Salad copycat recipe is a masterclass in ease, flavor, and creativity, utilizing everyday ingredients to recreate a restaurant favorite in the comfort of your own home. The beauty of this dish lies in its perfect balance of crunchy, sweet, savory, and tangy elements, all of which come together to create a salad that’s not just a meal, but an experience. Whether you’re a fan of Asian-inspired cuisine or just looking to spice up your lunch routine, this recipe is sure to delight. With its straightforward preparation and impressive results, it’s ideal for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs alike.

Why This Works

• Flavor balance and ingredient accessibility: The combination of grilled chicken, crispy noodles, and a variety of vegetables, all tied together with a zesty Asian-inspired dressing, creates a flavor profile that’s both complex and approachable. The ingredients are readily available in most supermarkets, making this dish accessible to anyone.
• Ease of preparation: Despite its impressive presentation and complex flavors, this salad is surprisingly easy to prepare. The steps are straightforward, and the components can be prepared ahead of time, making it a great option for busy weeknights or special occasions.
• Impressive results with minimal effort: The layering of textures and flavors in this salad creates a dish that looks and tastes like it was prepared in a professional kitchen, yet it requires minimal effort and specialized skills. This makes it perfect for entertaining guests or simply treating yourself to a high-quality meal at home.

Ingredients

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 cup mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
• 1 cup sliced red bell pepper
• 1 cup sliced carrots
• 1 cup crispy fried noodles (or chow mein noodles)
• 1/2 cup chopped cilantro
• 1/4 cup chopped scallions
• 1/4 cup toasted almonds or cashews
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for some heat)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Step 1: Prepare the Chicken – In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, grated ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using). Add the chicken pieces and marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off. Grill the chicken until cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per side. Let the chicken rest before slicing it into strips.
2. Step 2: Prepare the Salad Components – While the chicken is cooking, prepare the other components of the salad. Slice the bell peppers and carrots. If using fried noodles, fry them according to the package instructions and set aside. Chop the cilantro, scallions, and toast the almonds or cashews.
3. Step 3: Assemble the Salad – In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, sliced bell peppers, carrots, crispy noodles, chopped cilantro, scallions, and toasted nuts.
4. Step 4: Dress and Serve – In a small bowl, whisk together the dressing ingredients (soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, and grated ginger). Slice the grilled chicken into strips and place it on top of the salad. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss to combine. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Handy Tips

• To add some crunch without the fried noodles, consider using toasted sesame sticks or chopped peanuts.
• For a spicy kick, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add sliced jalapeños to the salad.
• Substitute the chicken with grilled shrimp or tofu for a different protein option.
• Prepare all the components ahead of time and assemble the salad just before serving to keep everything fresh and crispy.

Heat Control

When grilling the chicken, aim for medium-high heat to achieve a nice sear on the outside while keeping the inside juicy. The ideal internal temperature for cooked chicken is 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked through. For the noodles, if frying, heat the oil to 350°F (180°C) for the best crispiness.

Crunch Factor

Achieving the right crunch factor in this salad can make all the difference. The combination of crispy noodles, toasted nuts, and fresh vegetables provides a satisfying texture that complements the softness of the chicken and mixed greens. To enhance the crunch, ensure that your nuts are freshly toasted and your vegetables are crisp. If using fried noodles, fry them just before assembling the salad to prevent them from becoming soggy.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

• Use a mandoline to slice the bell peppers and carrots thinly and evenly, which helps in achieving a uniform texture throughout the salad.
• For an extra crispy texture on the chicken, pat it dry with paper towels before grilling to remove excess moisture.
• Keep your knives sharp to prevent crushing the herbs when chopping, which can make them lose their flavor and aroma.
• Invest in a good quality chef’s knife for easier and more efficient chopping and slicing.

Storage Tips

• Store the salad components separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator to keep them fresh. The chicken, vegetables, and nuts can be stored for up to a day, while the mixed greens are best used fresh.
• Reheat the chicken gently before adding it to the salad to prevent the greens from wilting.
• The dressing can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Give it a good stir before using.
• Consider using glass containers for storing salad components, as they are non-reactive and can help preserve the flavors and textures of the ingredients.

Gift Packaging Ideas

If you’re considering gifting this salad, perhaps as part of a meal kit or for a potluck, think about presenting it in a way that maintains its freshness and appeal. Use a large, shallow container that can be sealed, such as a glass or plastic salad bowl with a lid. Add a packet of the crispy noodles on the side, along with a small jar of the dressing, allowing the recipient to assemble the salad fresh. Garnish with extra herbs or a sprinkle of toasted nuts for a pop of color and added fragrance.

Flavor Variations

• Different spices: Experiment with various Asian-inspired spices like sesame oil, five-spice powder, or sriracha to add depth and heat to the salad.
• Creative toppings: Add pickled ginger, diced mango, or sliced avocado to introduce new textures and flavors.
• Ingredient swaps: Substitute the chicken with beef, pork, or lamb for a different twist, or use different types of nuts or seeds for varied crunch.

Troubleshooting

• Texture problems: If the salad becomes soggy, it might be due to the noodles absorbing too much dressing or the vegetables releasing moisture. Solve this by adding the dressing just before serving and using fresher ingredients.
• Ingredient replacements: If an ingredient is not available, look for substitutes that offer similar textures and flavors. For example, swap almonds with cashews or pecans.
• Over/undercooking signs: Ensure the chicken is cooked through but not overcooked, which can make it dry. The internal temperature should be 165°F (74°C), and the juices should run clear.

FAQs

• Can I freeze it? – While you can freeze the chicken and some of the vegetables, it’s best to assemble the salad fresh for the best texture and flavor. Freezing can make the greens wilt and the noodles soggy.
• Is it gluten-free? – This recipe can be adapted to be gluten-free by using gluten-free soy sauce and ensuring that the noodles or any store-bought components are gluten-free.
• Can I double the recipe? – Yes, this recipe can easily be doubled or tripled for larger gatherings. Just ensure you have enough bowls and utensils for serving.

Conclusion

This Applebee’s Asian Chicken Salad copycat recipe is a versatile and delicious addition to any meal repertoire. With its blend of crunchy, sweet, and savory elements, it’s a dish that can be enjoyed at any time of the year. Feel free to experiment with the ingredients and flavors to make it your own, and don’t hesitate to share your creations with friends and family. The beauty of cooking lies not just in the eating, but in the sharing and the joy it brings to others. So, go ahead, get creative, and bon appétit!