Make Applebee’s Oriental Chicken Salad at Home

If you’re looking for a salad that combines crunch, sweetness, and savory flavors all in one bite, this Applebee’s Oriental Chicken Salad copycat recipe is perfect for you. It’s a delicious, easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for lunch or a light dinner.

With fresh ingredients and a tasty homemade dressing, this salad is sure to become a favorite. Let’s dive into this straightforward, refreshing recipe that will make you feel like a chef in your own kitchen!

Fresh Ingredients for a Flavorful Salad

To recreate this Applebee’s Oriental Chicken Salad, you’ll need some fresh ingredients that add color, texture, and flavor:

• Romaine lettuce: 5 cups, chopped
• Red cabbage: 1 1/2 cups, shredded
• Carrots: 1 1/2 cups, shredded
• Chicken tenders: 8 pieces, cooked and crispy
• Toasted sliced almonds: 1/3 cup
• Chow mein noodles: 1/3 cup
• Green onions: 2, chopped

For the Dressing:

• Plain Greek yogurt: 1/2 cup
• Honey: 2 tablespoons
• Rice vinegar: 1 tablespoon
• Dijon mustard: 2 teaspoons
• Sesame oil: 1/4 teaspoon
• Kosher salt: 1/8 teaspoon

Step-by-Step Guide to Making the Salad

1. Prepare the Dressing

The dressing is a key component of this salad, providing a sweet and tangy flavor that ties all the ingredients together.

• Combine Ingredients: In a small bowl or a large measuring cup, mix together the plain Greek yogurt, honey, rice vinegar, Dijon mustard, sesame oil, and kosher salt.
• Adjust to Taste: Taste the dressing and add more salt if needed. If the dressing is too thick, you can thin it out by stirring in 1 to 2 tablespoons of milk until you reach your desired consistency.

2. Assemble the Salad

• Mix the Greens: In a large mixing bowl, toss the chopped romaine lettuce, shredded red cabbage, and shredded carrots together until well combined.
• Add the Chicken: Arrange the crispy chicken tenders on top of the salad. You can slice the tenders if you prefer bite-sized pieces.
• Drizzle with Dressing: Pour the prepared dressing over the salad. Be sure to distribute it evenly so every bite is flavorful.
• Finish with Toppings: Sprinkle the chow mein noodles, toasted almonds, and chopped green onions on top for added crunch and flavor.

3. Serve Immediately

This salad is best enjoyed fresh to maintain the crispness of the lettuce and the crunch of the toppings. Serve it right after assembling and enjoy a delicious, restaurant-quality meal at home!

Tips and Variations

• Customize Your Chicken: While chicken tenders are great for this recipe, you can also use grilled chicken for a healthier option or even tofu for a vegetarian twist.
• Add More Veggies: Feel free to add more vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas for extra crunch and nutrition.
• Make It a Wrap: Turn this salad into a wrap by adding the ingredients to a large tortilla for a fun, portable meal.

Quick and Easy, Perfect for Any Day

This Applebee’s Oriental Chicken Salad copycat recipe is simple to make and perfect for any day when you want a quick, delicious meal that’s both healthy and satisfying. With its blend of fresh vegetables, crispy chicken, and a sweet-tangy dressing, this salad is sure to brighten up your lunch or dinner. Enjoy making this easy, homemade version of a restaurant favorite!