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–+ servings

Copy Cat Panera Asian Sesame Salad

A light yet satisfying Asian sesame salad featuring crispy greens, tender chicken, and crunchy wonton strips, perfect for any meal.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course Dinner, Lunch, Salad
Cuisine American, Asian
Servings 4 servings
Calories 450 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken Marinade

  • 1 lb chicken breasts or tenders provides protein and texture
  • ¼ cup soy sauce adds umami flavor
  • 1 Tablespoon brown sugar brings sweetness
  • 2 Tablespoons seasoned rice vinegar adds acidity
  • ½ teaspoon salt enhances flavor
  • amount Oil for cooking, helps in browning

For the Salad Dressing

  • ¼ cup olive oil provides richness for dressing
  • ⅓ cup seasoned rice vinegar adds tanginess
  • 2 Tablespoons honey for sweetness
  • 3 Tablespoons sesame oil brings nutty flavor
  • 2 teaspoons soy sauce for additional depth
  • ½ teaspoon grated ginger optional, adds warmth
  • Pinch pinch salt or to taste

For the Salad

  • ¾ cup toasted sliced almonds adds crunch
  • 1 cup wonton strips provides texture
  • 2 romaine hearts chopped adds freshness
  • amount Toasted sesame seeds for garnish
  • amount Finely chopped cilantro adds brightness

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • In a mixing bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, brown sugar, and seasoned rice vinegar until the sugar dissolves to make the marinade.
  • Transfer the marinade to a ziplock bag or a shallow container with the chicken pieces, ensuring the chicken is well-coated. Seal and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
  • Make the dressing in a glass jar: combine the olive oil, seasoned rice vinegar, honey, sesame oil, soy sauce, and optional grated ginger. Shake until blended.

Cooking

  • Remove the chicken from the marinade, discarding excess liquid. Heat a pan over medium heat and coat with oil.
  • Cook the chicken in the pan for 4-5 minutes on each side until browned and cooked through (165°F).
  • Once cooked, let the chicken rest briefly before chopping into bite-sized pieces.

Assembly

  • In a large bowl, combine chopped romaine, sliced almonds, wonton strips, toasted sesame seeds, chopped cilantro, and chopped chicken.
  • Drizzle with dressing and toss gently to ensure even distribution.

Notes

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days. Dress the salad just before serving to retain texture.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 30gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 4gSodium: 900mgFiber: 2gSugar: 10g
Keyword Asian Sesame Salad, healthy salad, Light Meal, Panera Copycat, quick dinner
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