Applebee’s Oriental Chicken Salad

What makes this salad recipe so delicious is the tangy Asian salad dressing. This is sure to be one of your favorite dinner salads.

Applebee’s Oriental Chicken Salad is a popular menu item that combines crispy chicken, fresh vegetables, and a tangy Asian-inspired dressing. This salad is known for its delicious combination of flavors and textures, making it a favorite among many customers.

The salad features crispy breaded chicken tenders, which are cooked to perfection and provide a satisfying crunch. These tender and flavorful chicken pieces are then placed on a bed of mixed greens, including chopped romaine lettuce, green cabbage, and red cabbage. The combination of these fresh greens adds a refreshing and crisp element to the salad.

To complement the greens and chicken, the salad is topped with shredded carrots, chopped green onions, toasted sliced almonds, and chow mein noodles. These additional ingredients provide a delightful mix of textures, from the crunchy almonds and chow mein noodles to the crispness of the vegetables.

The Oriental Chicken Salad is further enhanced by its unique dressing. The dressing is a blend of honey, rice wine vinegar, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and sesame oil, creating a sweet and tangy flavor profile with a hint of nuttiness. This dressing adds a burst of flavor to the salad, tying all the ingredients together and creating a harmonious taste experience.

Whether enjoyed as a light lunch or a satisfying dinner, Applebee’s Oriental Chicken Salad offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures. It is a go-to choice for those seeking a refreshing salad with a touch of Asian-inspired flair.

SERVES: 4

INGREDIENTS:

• 4 frozen breaded chicken tenderloins

FOR DRESSING

• 6 tablespoons honey
• 3 tablespoons rice wine vinegar
• ½ cup mayonnaise
• 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
• ¼ teaspoon sesame oil

FOR SALAD

• 2 cups chopped green cabbage
• 2 cups chopped red cabbage
• 6 cups chopped romaine lettuce
• 1 shredded carrot
• 2 chopped green onions
• ¼ cup toasted sliced almonds
• 2/3 cup chow mein noodles

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Preheat the oven and cook chicken tenders according to package directions.
2. Combine all the ingredients for the dressing in a small bowl. Stir well and chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes.
3. Combine all the salad ingredients and toss with the dressing.

VARIATIONS:

• Grilled Chicken: Instead of using breaded chicken tenders, grill marinated chicken breast slices and use them as a healthier alternative. The grilled chicken adds a smoky flavor to the salad.
• Vegetarian Option: Skip the chicken altogether and replace it with tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian version of the salad. Marinate and cook the tofu or tempeh before adding it to the salad for a protein-packed alternative.
• Asian Slaw: Swap out the mixed greens for a crunchy Asian slaw mix. Use shredded cabbage, carrots, bell peppers, and bean sprouts as the base for the salad. Toss in the dressing and top with chow mein noodles and toasted almonds for added crunch.
• Add Fresh Fruit: For a refreshing twist, incorporate fresh fruits like mandarin oranges, sliced strawberries, or pineapple chunks to the salad. The sweetness of the fruits pairs well with the tangy dressing and adds a burst of flavor.
• Sesame Ginger Dressing: Instead of the traditional dressing, make a homemade sesame ginger dressing. Combine soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, grated ginger, honey, and garlic for a zesty and aromatic dressing that complements the salad ingredients.
• Spicy Kick: If you enjoy heat, add some sliced jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the salad for a spicy kick. This adds a layer of heat and complexity to the dish.