applebees oriental chicken salad recipe
The Best applebees oriental chicken salad recipe
Applebee’s Oriental Chicken Salad is one of those dishes that feels like a little comfort in a bowl—simple, balanced, and just the right amount of flavorful without being heavy. I’ve been making a version of this at home for years, and it’s always a hit, especially during school nights when the kids are starving but still want something light. The key is the mix of tender chicken, crunchy veggies, and that sweet-savory sauce that makes everything taste fresh. It’s not just a meal; it’s a way to get more greens and protein without feeling like you’re forcing them to eat their veggies. My kids—especially my picky eater—will eat this straight out of the bowl because it’s so satisfying, but it’s also great for when we’re hosting a small get-together or just need a quick, impressive dish for dinner.
What really makes this recipe work is how easy it is to customize. If you’re serving it for a family dinner, you can double the sauce or add some extra nuts for crunch. For a casual weeknight, it’s just as good without the fuss. The health benefits are pretty solid too—lean protein from the chicken, fiber from the veggies, and a dose of healthy fats from the nuts and dressing. It’s not some extreme diet food, but it’s not junk either. I’ve had my husband and kids ask for it more than once, and honestly, I don’t mind. It’s that kind of dish that makes you feel good about what you’re eating without overcomplicating things. Plus, the way the flavors come together—bitter greens, sweet sauce, crunchy toppings—it’s like a little flavor explosion in every bite.
Applebee’s Oriental Chicken Salad Recipe
A flavorful and refreshing salad featuring tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and a tangy oriental dressing. Perfect for a quick and healthy meal.
🥘Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tsp grated ginger
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 4 cups mixed greens (romaine, iceberg, or spinach)
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1 cup sliced cucumbers
- 1 cup sliced bell peppers (red, green, or yellow)
- 1 cup sliced red onions
- 1 cup mandarin orange segments (optional)
- 3 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tsp grated ginger
- 1 tsp sriracha (optional)
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds
👨🍳Directions
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1 Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces and place them in a bowl.
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2 In the same bowl, mix olive oil, soy sauce, honey, grated ginger, minced garlic, and sesame oil. Pour the marinade over the chicken and stir to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes.
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3 Preheat a pan over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for 6-8 minutes until fully cooked through and slightly charred. Remove from pan and set aside.
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4 While the chicken cooks, prepare the salad base by washing and drying the greens. Chop carrots, cucumbers, bell peppers, and red onions into bite-sized pieces. Arrange greens in a large serving bowl.
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5 In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, sesame oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, and sriracha. Stir in sesame seeds.
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6 Add the cooked chicken to the salad bowl and pour the dressing over the top. Toss gently to combine everything evenly. Add mandarin orange segments if using.
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7 Serve immediately or chill for up to 30 minutes before serving.
🔧Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Cooking pan
- Salad spinner (optional)
- Whisk
- Food processor (optional for chopping)
- Serving bowls
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Watch Video Of How Applebee’s Oriental Chicken Salad Recipe Works
This Applebee’s-style Oriental Chicken Salad is a perfect crowd-pleaser for any occasion—whether it’s a casual family dinner or a relaxed get-together. The mix of tender chicken, crunchy veggies, and that tangy-sweet dressing makes it easy to serve, and it’s always a hit with kids and adults alike because it’s light yet satisfying. Plus, it’s simple to prep ahead, so you won’t be stuck in the kitchen last minute when guests arrive.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Applebee’s Oriental Chicken Salad
What is the key ingredient that defines Applebee’s Oriental Chicken Salad?
The key ingredient that defines Applebee’s Oriental Chicken Salad is the marinated chicken breast, which is seasoned with a blend of Asian-inspired flavors like soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and sesame oil. This gives the dish its distinct tangy, savory, and slightly sweet profile.
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How does the salad differ from a typical Western-style chicken salad?
Applebee’s Oriental Chicken Salad replaces traditional mayonnaise-based dressing with a light, citrusy dressing made from a mix of rice vinegar, honey, sesame oil, and a touch of soy sauce. It also incorporates fresh herbs like cilantro and scallions, along with crisp vegetables like shredded carrots, cucumber, and snap peas, creating a fresher, more vibrant taste compared to a classic mayonnaise-based salad.
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Can I request substitutions for the chicken in the salad?
While Applebee’s typically serves grilled or baked chicken breast in this dish, you can often ask for substitutions like turkey breast, shrimp, or even a veggie option (such as grilled tofu or roasted chickpeas)—though availability may vary by location. It’s best to call ahead or mention it to your server to ensure they can accommodate your request.
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What side dishes pair well with the Oriental Chicken Salad at Applebee’s?
The salad’s light, fresh flavors work beautifully with a variety of sides, including: – Garlic bread or garlic butter toast – Mashed potatoes or roasted sweet potatoes – Grilled vegetables (like zucchini or asparagus) – A simple green salad (with a different dressing) – Crispy fried rice or a stir-fry Many locations also offer applebee’s signature baked potato bar or mac & cheese as great options.
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Is the dressing in the Oriental Chicken Salad gluten-free?
The dressing in Applebee’s Oriental Chicken Salad contains soy sauce, which is typically gluten-free, but it’s important to note that some soy sauces (especially those labeled “gluten-free” or made with tamari) may still be cross-contaminated in commercial kitchens. For a fully gluten-free experience, you can ask for a separate dressing (like a simple lemon-vinegar dressing) or confirm with your server if the restaurant uses tamari instead of regular soy sauce.
