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This Panera Fuji Apple Salad copycat is my not-so-secret weapon for easy weeknight dinners or impressive brunches. It brings together crisp greens, juicy chicken, crunchy apples and pecans, and tangy cheese under that signature sweet-tart vinaigrette. Every bite tastes just like the cafe original but with the satisfaction of having made it yourself.
The first time I served this at a family picnic everyone asked for seconds. My kids especially love crunching the apple chips right on top.
Ingredients
- Spring salad mix: choose a sturdy mix for the best crunch and vibrant greens
- Rotisserie chicken: use juicy breast meat for tender strips and buy fresh if possible
- Apple chips: these add sweetness and crunch select a brand with simple ingredients
- Gorgonzola cheese: brings tangy creaminess look for pre-crumbled to save time
- Shaved parmesan cheese: for a nutty salty punch and beautiful shards
- Grape tomatoes: slice in half to bring pop and color choose plump firm ones
- Pecan halves: for that irresistible buttery crunch toast lightly if you want extra flavor
- Red onion: thinly sliced for sharp flavor soak in water to mellow if you like
- Dried sweetened cranberries: balance the savory and sweet choose plump berries
- Panera fuji apple vinaigrette dressing: store-bought or homemade to finish everything off
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep the Salad Base:
- Add washed and dried spring salad mix into a large roomy serving bowl to guarantee everything tosses together easily and the greens stay crisp
- Arrange the Toppings:
- Layer the sliced rotisserie chicken evenly over the salad greens so each forkful gets plenty of protein
- Add Apple Chips:
- Scatter apple chips over the chicken so they keep their crunch rather than getting soggy underneath the dressing
- Finish with Cheese Tomatoes Pecans Onion and Cranberries:
- Spread on the crumbled gorgonzola cheese shaved parmesan grape tomatoes pecan halves red onion slices and dried cranberries distributing them evenly so every bite is filled with flavor and texture
- Toss and Dress:
- Gently toss the salad to combine all ingredients without bruising the greens Just before serving drizzle fuji apple vinaigrette lightly over the top or let everyone dress their own bowl to taste
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You Must Know
- High in lean protein and healthy fats
- Super customizable for different diets
- Holds up well if you prep in advance but wait to add dressing and apple chips
Pecans are my personal favorite here I remember my grandma always kept a tin just for snacking and toasting a handful makes every salad feel special This is the salad I crave when I want something light but still totally satisfying
Storage Tips
Wrap the salad tightly and refrigerate up to two days but always keep the dressing and apple chips separate until serving to avoid wilted greens and soggy crunch. You can store sliced chicken and cheese toppings separately if you want to keep maximum freshness throughout the week.
Ingredient Substitutions
No gorgonzola Substitute feta or crumbled goat cheese for a similar creamy tang. Try roasted almonds or walnuts instead of pecans. For a vegetarian salad skip the chicken and add extra nuts or cooked quinoa for staying power. A simple honey vinaigrette can step in if you cannot find Fuji apple dressing.
Serving Suggestions
This salad is perfect as a main dish for lunch or dinner. It is also a show-stopper for brunch spreads—just set all components out and let guests assemble their own bowl. Pair it with crusty bread and a chilled white wine for a special treat.
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Cultural and Historical Context
Salads like this became popular across North America thanks to the rise of cafe chains in the early two thousands blending fresh greens with proteins fruits and savory elements for a satisfying all-in-one meal. The Fuji apple salad in particular showcases how classic European cheese and nut combinations pair beautifully with American apples and greens.
Recipe FAQs
- → What kind of chicken works best for this salad?
Rotisserie chicken breast adds quick protein and pairs well with the sweet and tangy flavors.
- → Can I substitute the gorgonzola cheese?
Yes, feta or blue cheese are great alternatives that provide a similar tangy bite.
- → What dressing complements this blend best?
Fuji apple vinaigrette is classic, but balsamic vinaigrette can also complement these flavors.
- → How do I keep the salad fresh for serving?
Wait to toss the salad with dressing until just before serving to preserve crispness.
- → Are there any nut-free options for this dish?
Omit pecans or replace them with roasted seeds, such as pumpkin or sunflower, for a crunch.