While I often prefer the unique charm of local eateries, there are a few chain restaurant gems that hold a special place in my heart – think Cafe Rio or the famous rolls from Texas Roadhouse. However, many chain dining experiences often fall short, serving reheated dishes and less-than-fresh produce. That’s why I’ve dedicated myself to perfecting homemade versions of these beloved classics. Today, I’m thrilled to share a recipe that truly captures the magic of a restaurant favorite: the irresistible **Copycat Applebee’s Oriental Chicken Salad**.
Applebee’s might not have been a frequent stop for my family, but I distinctly remember those occasional visits. And every single time, my mom would gravitate towards two things: their famous Oriental Chicken Salad and those delectable blonde brownies. Naturally, perfecting this salad at home has been a culinary mission, and I’m equally eager to tackle a copycat version of those brownies soon!
This homemade Oriental Chicken Salad isn’t just a meal; it’s a vibrant, flavorful experience. It combines crisp, fresh greens, succulent chicken, and a medley of crunchy toppings, all brought together by a dressing that perfectly balances sweet, tangy, and savory notes. The secret truly lies in the dressing, which we’ve meticulously recreated to mirror Applebee’s signature taste. Forget wilted lettuce and bland flavors; this recipe ensures a fresh and satisfying meal every time. It’s perfect for a light lunch, a quick dinner, or even as a standout dish for entertaining guests. You’ll definitely want to save this recipe to your favorites on Pinterest – it’s a keeper!
Why Make a Copycat Applebee’s Oriental Chicken Salad at Home?
Recreating your favorite restaurant dishes at home offers numerous advantages. Firstly, you gain complete control over the quality and freshness of your ingredients. No more questioning how long the lettuce has been sitting or what exactly went into that dressing. You choose the freshest produce, the best quality chicken, and premium spices. Secondly, it’s often more economical. Eating out frequently can add up, but making meals like this Oriental Chicken Salad at home allows you to enjoy a gourmet experience without the hefty price tag. Lastly, there’s immense satisfaction in preparing a dish that tastes just like the original – or even better – from the comfort of your own kitchen. This Applebee’s Oriental Chicken Salad recipe is a testament to that.
The Signature Dressing: A Symphony of Flavors
The dressing is undoubtedly the star of this homemade Oriental Chicken Salad. It’s what transforms a simple chicken salad into an unforgettable culinary delight. Applebee’s ginger dressing is known for its distinctive blend of sweet, savory, and slightly spicy notes, with a creamy texture that coats every ingredient beautifully. Our copycat version meticulously balances mayonnaise for creaminess, rice wine vinegar for tang, honey and sugar for sweetness, Dijon mustard for a subtle kick, and sesame oil and ground ginger for that unmistakable Asian-inspired aroma and flavor. The combination creates a dressing that is both refreshing and deeply satisfying, enhancing every bite of the salad.
What Is Napa Cabbage?
Napa cabbage, often referred to as Chinese cabbage, is a crucial component in achieving the authentic texture and flavor of this Applebee’s Oriental Chicken Salad. Unlike traditional green cabbage, Napa cabbage has an oblong shape with thick, crisp white stems and delicate, frilly yellow-green leaves. Its texture is notably softer and its flavor sweeter than green cabbage, making it an ideal choice for salads where a milder crunch is desired. It readily absorbs dressing, adding a wonderful crispness without overpowering other ingredients. When selecting Napa cabbage, look for firm heads with crisp, vibrant leaves and no signs of wilting or discoloration.
Are Almonds Good For You?
Beyond adding a delightful crunch and nutty flavor, almonds bring a powerhouse of nutrition to this Oriental Chicken Salad recipe. These small but mighty nuts are an excellent source of healthy fats, particularly monounsaturated fats, which are known to support heart health. They are also packed with fiber, aiding in digestion and promoting satiety, and protein, essential for muscle repair and growth. Furthermore, almonds provide significant amounts of magnesium, important for nerve and muscle function, and vitamin E, a potent antioxidant that helps protect cells from damage. Including a handful of sliced almonds not only elevates the taste and texture of your salad but also boosts its nutritional profile, making it a truly wholesome meal.
Is Chicken Healthy?
When it comes to lean protein, chicken stands out as a healthy choice, especially when compared to red meat. While red meats like beef, pork, and lamb can be part of a balanced diet, they generally contain higher levels of saturated fats. Saturated and trans fats are known to raise blood cholesterol levels, which can increase the risk of heart disease. Chicken, particularly skinless breast, offers a lower-fat, high-protein alternative. Incorporating chicken into your diet provides essential amino acids for muscle maintenance, B vitamins for energy, and minerals like selenium and phosphorus. Choosing lean cuts and preparing it healthily, like baking or grilling, ensures you maximize its nutritional benefits in dishes like our Applebee’s Oriental Chicken Salad copycat.
Copycat Applebee’s Oriental Chicken Salad
Copycat Applebee’s Oriental Chicken Salad
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 4 Frozen Chicken Strips, baked or a homemade crunchy chicken fingers recipe
For the Dressing
- 1/4 Cup Mayonnaise
- 1 1/2 Tablespoons Rice Wine Vinegar, good quality
- 2 Tablespoons Honey
- 1 Tablespoon Sugar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon Mustard
- 1/8 teaspoon Sesame Oil
- Pinch Ground Ginger
- Salt to taste
For the Salad
- 2 Cups Romaine, chopped
- 1 Cup Iceburg Lettuce, chopped
- 1/2 Cup Matchstick Carrots, store-bought or freshly julienned
- 1 Cup Napa Cabbage, chopped
- 1 Cup Red Cabbage, chopped
- 2 Tablespoons Sliced Almonds
- 1/4 Cup Chow Mein Noodles
Instructions
For the chicken
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Cook the chicken according to package directions, or prepare your preferred crunchy chicken fingers recipe. Ensure the chicken is fully cooked and golden brown.4 Frozen Chicken Strips
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Once cooked, let it cool slightly and then slice into bite-sized pieces. Set aside.
For the dressing
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In a blender or food processor, combine all the dressing ingredients: mayonnaise, rice wine vinegar, honey, sugar, Dijon mustard, sesame oil, a pinch of ground ginger, and salt to taste. Blend until the mixture is completely smooth and emulsified.1/4 Cup Mayonnaise, 1 1/2 Tablespoons Rice Wine Vinegar, 2 Tablespoons Honey, 1 Tablespoon Sugar, 1 teaspoon Dijon Mustard, 1/8 teaspoon Sesame Oil, Pinch Ground Ginger, Salt to taste
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Transfer the dressing to a mason jar or airtight container and refrigerate until ready to serve. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
To assemble the salad
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In a large salad bowl, combine the chopped Romaine lettuce, Iceberg lettuce, matchstick carrots, Napa cabbage, and red cabbage. Toss gently to distribute the vegetables evenly.2 Cups Romaine, 1 Cup Iceburg Lettuce, 1/2 Cup Matchstick Carrots, 1 Cup Napa Cabbage, 1 Cup Red Cabbage
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Arrange the sliced chicken pieces over the salad greens. Sprinkle with sliced almonds and chow mein noodles for an extra layer of crunch and flavor.1/4 Cup Chow Mein Noodles, 2 Tablespoons Sliced Almonds
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Just before serving, generously drizzle the homemade Oriental ginger dressing over the salad. Toss lightly to ensure all ingredients are coated.
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Serve immediately and enjoy your authentic Applebee’s Oriental Chicken Salad experience at home!
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
This Applebee’s Oriental Chicken Salad copycat recipe is a true crowd-pleaser, offering a vibrant combination of textures and flavors that will transport you straight back to your favorite casual dining spot. The crisp freshness of the various lettuces and cabbages provides a satisfying base, while the matchstick carrots add a hint of sweetness and an extra layer of crunch. The star of the show, of course, is the perfectly cooked chicken, whether you opt for convenient frozen strips or a homemade crunchy version, lending a hearty protein boost to the dish. But it’s the interplay of the tender chicken with the delicate crunch of sliced almonds and the irresistible crispness of chow mein noodles that truly elevates this salad. Each spoonful is a delightful medley of textures and a burst of the sweet and tangy ginger dressing, creating a balanced and incredibly satisfying meal.
Preparing this salad is also a fantastic way to engage with fresh ingredients and customize it to your liking. Feel free to add other vegetables you enjoy, such as bell peppers, cucumbers, or snow peas, to further enhance the color and nutrient content. For those who prefer a spicier kick, a tiny dash of sriracha or red pepper flakes can be added to the dressing. If you’re looking for an even healthier alternative, consider grilling or baking plain chicken breast seasoned with a little salt and pepper, then slicing it for your salad. This homemade Oriental Chicken Salad is versatile, delicious, and a perfect testament to the joys of home cooking.
More Copycat Recipes to Try at Home
If you loved recreating the Applebee’s Oriental Chicken Salad, you’re in for a treat! Our site is a treasure trove of restaurant copycat recipes that let you enjoy your favorite dishes without leaving your home. From savory delights to decadent desserts, we’ve got you covered. Here are a few other popular recipes that our readers absolutely adore:
Copycat Arby’s Beef N Cheddar
Craving that iconic, cheesy roast beef sandwich? Our Arby’s Beef N Cheddar copycat recipe delivers all the flavor of the original, with tender roast beef and gooey cheddar sauce on a toasted onion bun. It’s surprisingly simple to make and tastes just like you remember!
Cafe Rio Sweet Pork Quesadilla
For a taste of Mexican-inspired goodness, try our Cafe Rio Sweet Pork Quesadilla copycat. The sweet, tender pork wrapped in a crispy quesadilla is an absolute delight. This recipe is a fan favorite and perfect for a family dinner.
Copycat WaffleLove Recipe
Bring the gourmet food truck experience home with our WaffleLove copycat recipe. These authentic Liege waffles are rich, dense, and studded with pearl sugar, creating a caramelized exterior that’s simply irresistible. A perfect breakfast or dessert treat!
Chili’s Copycat Molten Lava Cake
And for a grand finale, indulge in our Chili’s Molten Lava Cake copycat. This rich chocolate cake with a molten center is pure bliss, especially when served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. It’s an impressive dessert that’s surprisingly easy to master.
Final Thoughts on Your Homemade Applebee’s Oriental Chicken Salad
Crafting this Copycat Applebee’s Oriental Chicken Salad at home is more than just making a meal; it’s about reclaiming the joy of dining on a beloved classic with the added benefits of freshness and quality you can trust. The harmonious blend of crisp greens, savory chicken, crunchy nuts, and crispy noodles, all brought together by that perfectly balanced sweet-and-tangy ginger dressing, makes for a truly unforgettable culinary experience. Whether you’re a long-time fan of the original or simply looking for a new, exciting salad recipe, this homemade version promises to delight your taste buds and earn a permanent spot in your recipe collection. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and embark on this delicious culinary adventure. You’ll be amazed at how easily you can recreate restaurant-quality magic right in your own kitchen!