Name: Delicious Copycat Applebee’s Oriental Chicken Salad Made Easy
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 3 TBSP Honey (You can use maple syrup for variety.); 1.5 TBSP Rice Wine Vinegar (Apple cider vinegar also works well.); 0.25 cup Mayonnaise (Greek yogurt makes for a lighter twist.); 1 tsp Dijon Mustard (Substitute with spicy brown mustard for extra kick.); 0.125 tsp Sesame Oil (Omit for a lighter taste.); 3 cups Romaine Lettuce, chopped (Any leafy green works.); 0.5 cup Red Cabbage, chopped (Green cabbage can be used in a pinch.); 0.5 cup Napa Cabbage, chopped (Regular cabbage is a good alternative.); 1 Carrot, shredded (Try bell peppers if you prefer.); 3 TBSP Sliced Almonds (Substitute sunflower seeds for a nut-free option.); 2-3 Crispy Fried Chicken Breasts (Feel free to use grilled chicken for a healthier vibe.); Crunchy Chow Mein Noodles (Tortilla strips can add a fun twist.)

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As I stood in my kitchen, the satisfying sizzle of frying chicken brought back memories of cozy dinners at my favorite restaurant. This Copycat Applebee’s Oriental Chicken Salad is my secret weapon for channeling that nostalgic flavor right at home. Picture crisp lettuce mingling with crunchy veggies, tender fried chicken, and a delightful homemade dressing that’s both light and rich. What makes this dish a winner for busy weeknights is its easy preparation and vibrant taste – it’s not just a salad, but a family-friendly feast that pleases even the pickiest eaters. Once you make this salad, it may just become your go-to for those weeknight cravings. What secret ingredients do you think will make your version shine?

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Why is This Salad a Game-Changer?

Freshness and Flavor: The combination of crispy chicken and vibrant vegetables creates a salad that’s bursting with flavor, making it a crowd-pleaser at any table.

Quick and Easy: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.

Versatile Options: Customize it easily! Add tofu for a vegetarian twist or throw in some seasonal fruit for extra sweetness.

Family-Friendly Appeal: Packed with textures and tastes that kids love, it’s a surefire way to keep the whole family happy, just like my Garlic Butter Chicken recipe!

Make-Ahead Convenience: Prep the ingredients ahead of time, and you’ll have a quick meal ready to go. Store leftovers for a refreshing lunch the next day!

This Copycat Applebee’s Oriental Chicken Salad is sure to become a staple in your mealtime rotation!

Copycat Applebee’s Oriental Chicken Salad Ingredients

• Elevate your home cooking with these ingredients!

For the Dressing

3 TBSP Honey – Sweetness that ties the dressing together; you can use maple syrup for variety.
1 1/2 TBSP Rice Wine Vinegar – Adds a tangy kick to balance flavors; apple cider vinegar also works well.
1/4 cup Mayonnaise – Provides creamy richness; Greek yogurt makes for a lighter twist.
1 tsp Dijon Mustard – Introduces a delightful tang; substitute with spicy brown mustard for extra kick.
1/8 tsp Sesame Oil – Imparts a nutty aroma; omit for a lighter taste.

For the Salad Base

3 cups Romaine Lettuce, chopped – The crunchy foundation of your salad; any leafy green works.
1/2 cup Red Cabbage, chopped – Brings color and crunch; green cabbage can be used in a pinch.
1/2 cup Napa Cabbage, chopped – Offers a milder flavor and delightful crunch; regular cabbage is a good alternative.
1 Carrot, shredded – Adds a sweet crunch; try bell peppers if you prefer.

For the Toppings

3 TBSP Sliced Almonds – Gives a nutty crunch; substitute sunflower seeds for a nut-free option.
2-3 Crispy Fried Chicken Breasts – The star protein; feel free to use grilled chicken for a healthier vibe.
Crunchy Chow Mein Noodles – For that extra crunch; tortilla strips can add a fun twist.

Remember, these ingredients come together to create the perfect Copycat Applebee’s Oriental Chicken Salad!

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

Step 1: Prepare Dressing
In a small mixing bowl, combine 3 tablespoons of honey, 1½ tablespoons of rice wine vinegar, ¼ cup of mayonnaise, 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard, and ⅛ teaspoon of sesame oil. Whisk these ingredients together until smooth, ensuring there are no lumps of mayonnaise. Once combined, cover the bowl and refrigerate the dressing for at least 15 minutes to chill and allow the flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 2: Chop Vegetables
While the dressing chills, prepare your fresh vegetables. Rinse and chop 3 cups of romaine lettuce, ½ cup of red cabbage, and ½ cup of Napa cabbage. Using a grater, shred 1 carrot and add it to a large salad bowl. The vibrant colors and crisp textures will create a refreshing base for your Copycat Applebee’s Oriental Chicken Salad—set this aside as you move to the next step.

Step 3: Prepare Chicken
Take 2-3 crispy fried chicken breasts and dice them into bite-sized pieces. The chicken should be golden and crunchy on the outside, providing a delightful contrast to the fresh veggies. Fold these chicken pieces gently into the salad bowl, ensuring an even distribution of flavors and textures throughout the salad.

Step 4: Assemble Salad
It’s time to bring everything together for your salad masterpiece! Sprinkle 3 tablespoons of sliced almonds and a handful of crunchy chow mein noodles over the top of the salad mixture. Drizzle generously with the chilled Oriental dressing and use tongs to toss everything lightly, making sure each ingredient is beautifully coated and mixed well.

Step 5: Serve
Once your Copycat Applebee’s Oriental Chicken Salad is well mixed and colorful, it’s ready to be served! You can plate individual servings or serve it family-style in the mixing bowl. The beautiful contrast of crunchy vegetables, crispy chicken, and a tangy dressing makes for a satisfying meal that’s fresh and delicious. Enjoy immediately for the best texture and flavor!

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Tips for the Best Copycat Applebee’s Oriental Chicken Salad

Dress for Success: Always chill the dressing before serving to enhance flavor and consistency. A well-mixed dressing ensures every bite is deliciously savory.
Texture Matters: To achieve the ideal crunch, add the chow mein noodles last. This helps maintain their crispness until serving.
Chicken Choices: Use freshly cooked fried chicken for the best taste. If using frozen, ensure it’s crispy and fully cooked beforehand; soggy chicken can ruin your salad!
Veggie Variations: Feel free to mix in seasonal vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas for added color and nutrition. Just make sure to cut them into bite-sized pieces.
Nuts and Seeds: Toast the almonds lightly for a richer flavor—and if allergies are a concern, sunflower seeds make for a perfect nut-free alternative in this Copycat Applebee’s Oriental Chicken Salad.

What to Serve with Copycat Applebee’s Oriental Chicken Salad

Complement this vibrant salad with delicious sides that enhance its flavors and textures.

Grilled Lemon Chicken: Tender, zesty chicken enhances the flavors of the salad and provides an extra protein boost.
Crispy Garlic Bread: The warmth and crunch of garlic bread make it a delightful accompaniment, perfect for scooping up extra dressing.
Fruit Salad: A refreshing medley of seasonal fruits adds sweetness and a splash of color, balancing the savory salad beautifully.
Asian-Inspired Slaw: A crunchy slaw with sesame dressing will echo the flavors of the salad, creating a harmonious meal.
Sweet Chili Glazed Shrimp: Juicy shrimp with a sweet kick delivers a flavorful twist, making your dining experience even more exciting.
Chilled Sake or White Wine: Pair with chilled beverages to enhance your meal, offering a refreshing contrast to the richness of the dish.
Coconut Jasmine Rice: This subtly sweet and fragrant rice is a wonderful side that complements the Oriental flavors and adds a satisfying texture.

Make Ahead Options

These Copycat Applebee’s Oriental Chicken Salad ingredients can be prepped in advance to save you precious time on busy weeknights! You can prepare the dressing up to 3 days beforehand; simply whisk together honey, rice wine vinegar, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and sesame oil, then refrigerate it in an airtight container. Additionally, the chopped vegetables can be prepped 24 hours in advance—just store them in a sealed container to keep them fresh and crisp. When you’re ready to serve, simply dice the crispy fried chicken and toss everything together with the dressing, ensuring that this delightful salad remains just as delicious as when freshly made!

Copycat Applebee’s Oriental Chicken Salad Variations

Feel free to personalize this delicious salad to suit your taste buds and dietary needs!

Vegetarian: Replace chicken with marinated tofu for a satisfying plant-based version that’s equally delicious and filling.
Nut-Free: Swap sliced almonds for pumpkin seeds, maintaining that delightful crunch without the worry of allergies.
Fruity Twist: Toss in some fresh mandarin oranges or apple slices for a burst of sweetness that brightens every bite.
Dressing Upgrade: Add a splash of soy sauce to the dressing for an extra layer of umami that enhances the overall flavor profile.
Heat It Up: Sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to give your salad a spicy kick that will wake up your senses.
Grain Boost: Incorporate quinoa or farro into the salad for added protein and texture, making it even more filling.
Crunchy Veggie Add-ins: Consider adding radishes or bell peppers for an extra crunch and a beautiful pop of color.
Asian Influence: Substitute chow mein noodles with crushed sesame crackers for a fun, textured alternative that complements the flavors perfectly.

With these variations, your Copycat Applebee’s Oriental Chicken Salad can transform to suit any occasion or craving. For more easy crowd-pleasers, check out my Bbq Chicken Tostadas or a quick yet delectable Sunshine Salad.

Storage Tips for Copycat Applebee’s Oriental Chicken Salad

Fridge: Store leftover salad in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To maintain freshness, keep the dressing separate until ready to serve.

Dressing: The homemade dressing can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Ensure it’s in a tightly sealed jar or container to preserve its flavor and consistency.

Vegetables: If you have leftover chopped veggies, store them in an airtight container and consume within 2–3 days for optimal crunch.

Reheating: If you used crispy fried chicken, reheat it in the oven to maintain its crunch before adding it back to the salad for the best experience.

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Copycat Applebee’s Oriental Chicken Salad Recipe FAQs

How do I pick the best chicken for this salad?
Absolutely! For the best taste, opt for freshly cooked crispy fried chicken. If you’re in a pinch and choose frozen chicken, ensure it’s thoroughly cooked and crispy, as soggy chicken can detract from your salad. For a healthier alternative, consider using grilled chicken instead—just make sure it’s seasoned well for maximum flavor!

What’s the best way to store leftover salad?
Very good question! Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge, and it should stay fresh for up to 3 days. Remember, to keep your salad crispy, it’s best to store the dressing separately and combine it just before serving. That way, you can enjoy the same great texture on day two!

How long can I keep the homemade dressing?
You can enjoy your homemade dressing for up to 1 week when stored in a tightly sealed jar or container in the refrigerator. Just give it a good shake before using, as some ingredients may settle at the bottom.

Can I freeze this salad?
I wouldn’t recommend freezing the entire salad, as the fresh vegetables won’t hold up well after thawing. However, you can freeze the cooked chicken on its own for up to 3 months. Just make sure to cool the chicken completely before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap or placing it in a freezer-safe bag.

Are there any dietary considerations to keep in mind?
Absolutely! If you’re preparing this salad for pets, all ingredients should be safe for them in small quantities, but always avoid giving them any dressing, especially if it contains mustard or mayonnaise. Additionally, keep in mind that some folks may have nut allergies; if that’s the case, simply swap the almonds for sunflower seeds for a nut-free alternative.

How do I keep my vegetables fresh for this salad?
Very easily! Store your chopped vegetables in an airtight container and consume them within 2 to 3 days for the best crunch. If you’re prepping ahead of time, I often recommend washing and chopping the veggies but keeping them stored separately from the dressing until you’re ready to serve. This way, they’ll remain crisp and vibrant!