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This crisp and satisfying rendition of Panera’s Fuji Apple Salad brings sweet apple flavor crunchy greens and plenty of protein right to your kitchen table. It is a colorful family favorite that feels special but could not be easier to make at home. The tangy vinaigrette brings all the flavors together for a bright lunch or dinner.
I first tried assembling this salad for a weekend lunch and everyone was so enthusiastic it became our go-to crowd-pleaser for casual gatherings.
Ingredients
- Spring salad mix: fresh and washed for a crisp base choose a bright mix for color
- Rotisserie chicken: sliced for protein and heartiness pick a fresh breast for tender texture
- Apple chips: sweet and crunchy dried apple slices use a trusted brand with real apple flavor
- Crumbled gorgonzola cheese: adds tang and creaminess try to get a rich blue with good marbling
- Shaved parmesan cheese: salty richness optional but I love the savory finish
- Grape tomatoes: halved for juicy bursts and color pick tomatoes that feel firm and sweet
- Pecan halves: toasty and rich for satisfying crunch opt for whole halves for the best bite
- Red onion: thinly sliced adds sharpness pick one that feels heavy and has tight skin
- Dried sweetened cranberries: chewiness and sweet flavor look for plump berries without excess sugar
- Panera fuji apple vinaigrette: tangy signature finish available in the chilled produce area for closest match
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Build the Greens:
- Start by adding the fresh salad mix to a large wide bowl. Fluff it gently with clean dry hands to let air in and keep the greens from getting flat. This keeps every bite uplifted and light.
- Layer the Chicken:
- Scatter the sliced rotisserie chicken evenly over the greens. If using chicken straight from the fridge let it sit out for five minutes so it is not too cold.
- Add Sweet and Crunchy Elements:
- Sprinkle apple chips on top of the chicken. Follow with the crumbled gorgonzola and shaved parmesan to distribute creaminess and tang across the bowl.
- Add the Colorful Toppings:
- Place grape tomato halves around the edge and in the center. Add pecan halves for crunch then the slices of red onion in little rings. Space dried cranberries over the salad for chewy sweetness in every serving.
- Toss for Balance:
- Gently toss the entire salad together with clean large tongs or two big spoons. Aim for even distribution so each serving gets a bit of everything.
- Dress and Serve:
- Just before serving drizzle your desired amount of Panera fuji apple vinaigrette over the salad. Toss again lightly or serve dressing on the side for each person to pour separately.
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My favorite element in this salad is the apple chips. Their sweetness and crunch echo my memories of autumn apple picking trips with my family when I would slip dried apples into my lunchbox for snack time. I love that one salad can capture those flavors in every bite and make a simple meal feel special.
Storage Tips
Store any leftover salad without the dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. If preparing ahead for meal prep keep the vinaigrette separate in a small jar to prevent the greens from getting soggy. For best crunch add apple chips right before eating.
Ingredient Swaps
If you do not have rotisserie chicken any simply seasoned cooked chicken will work including grilled or roasted leftovers. Blue cheese or feta can swap in for gorgonzola. Walnuts or sliced almonds can be used in place of pecans. For a dairy free version try using a vegan cheese alternative and skipping the parmesan.
Perfect Pairings
Serve this salad with a side of warm sourdough bread or mini baguettes for a Panera style experience at home. It also pairs beautifully with lemonade or a crisp apple cider for extra apple flavor. Some like to add grilled shrimp or roasted chickpeas for added protein.
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A Bit of Salad History
Inspired by the popular Panera bread cafe item this salad celebrates American cafe cuisine’s love for blending savory with a touch of sweetness. The use of apple chips brings a bit of culinary creativity drawing from both traditional fruit salads and contemporary bistro flavors.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! Swap gorgonzola with feta or blue cheese for a different flavor profile, or omit for a milder taste.
- → Is rotisserie chicken required?
No, any cooked and sliced chicken works. Leftover grilled or baked chicken makes a great substitute.
- → What if I can't find Fuji apple vinaigrette?
You may use any tangy vinaigrette, such as balsamic or apple cider, to complement the salad ingredients.
- → How should leftovers be stored?
Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for best freshness, ideally for up to 3 days.
- → Can this salad be prepped ahead?
Prepare the salad components in advance but combine and dress just before serving to maintain crispness.
- → Are the apple chips essential?
While they add great crunch and flavor, you can omit or substitute with fresh apple slices if preferred.