Asian Chicken Salad from Au Bon Pain features tender grilled chicken, crisp mixed greens, shredded carrots, and crunchy wonton strips, all tossed in a tangy sesame-ginger dressing, delivering a refreshing and flavorful combination.
Equipments
- Grill or grill pan
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Salad spinner or colander
- Mixing bowls
- Vegetable peeler or box grater
- Tongs
- Whisk
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breast
- 8 cups mixed salad greens
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1 cup crunchy wonton strips
- 2 tablespoons sesame seeds
- 1/2 cup sliced scallions
- For the Sesame-Ginger Dressing:
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons toasted sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
- 1 tablespoon grated fresh garlic
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 tablespoon sriracha (optional)
- 1/4 cup canola oil
- Salt
- Black pepper
Using boneless, skinless chicken breast ensures tender, easy-to-grill protein that pairs well with crisp mixed greens and shredded carrots in this dish. Low-sodium soy sauce in the sesame-ginger dressing helps control salt levels while maintaining authentic Asian flavors. Freshly grated ginger and garlic contribute bold aromatic notes essential for capturing the salad's vibrant taste profile. Crunchy wonton strips provide a satisfying texture contrast, enhancing each refreshing bite. Your version of the Asian Chicken Salad from Au Bon Pain copycat menu will stand out when you focus on these key ingredient details.
Instructions
- Instructions:
- Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
- Season chicken breasts with salt and black pepper.
- Grill chicken 5-6 minutes per side, or until fully cooked.
- Remove chicken from grill and let rest for 5 minutes.
- Slice grilled chicken into thin strips.
- Wash and dry mixed greens using a salad spinner or colander.
- Shred carrots with a vegetable peeler or box grater.
- Slice scallions thinly with a chef’s knife.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together all ingredients for the sesame-ginger dressing: soy sauce, rice vinegar, toasted sesame oil, honey, grated ginger, grated garlic, lime juice, sriracha (if using), canola oil, salt, and black pepper.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine mixed greens, shredded carrots, sliced scallions, and sesame seeds.
- Add grilled chicken strips to the salad.
- Drizzle dressing over salad ingredients.
- Toss gently with tongs until well combined.
- Top salad with crunchy wonton strips.
- Serve immediately.
Substitution
Asian Chicken Salad from Au Bon Pain copycat menu highlights grilled chicken, crisp mixed greens, shredded carrots, and crunchy wonton strips combined with a tangy sesame-ginger dressing. You can substitute boneless, skinless chicken thighs if you prefer darker meat, as they offer more flavor and remain juicy during grilling. If wonton strips are unavailable, toasted almonds or crispy tortilla strips provide a satisfying crunch. The dressing's sesame oil can be replaced with peanut or olive oil for a different yet complementary taste profile. Adjust the sriracha quantity or omit it to suit your spice preference while maintaining the salad's signature tangy flavor.
Tips
Ensure your grill or grill pan is properly preheated to medium-high before cooking chicken to achieve a flavorful char without drying it out. Let the grilled chicken rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing to retain its juices and tenderness. Use a salad spinner or colander to thoroughly wash and dry your mixed greens to prevent a soggy salad. When making the sesame-ginger dressing, whisk all ingredients vigorously to emulsify the oils and achieve a balanced, tangy flavor that complements your salad perfectly.
Nutritions
Asian Chicken Salad provides a balanced meal rich in lean protein from the grilled chicken breast, which supports muscle repair and growth. The mixed salad greens and shredded carrots supply dietary fiber, vitamins A and C, and antioxidants, promoting digestion and immune health. Sesame seeds offer healthy fats and minerals like calcium and magnesium, while the sesame-ginger dressing includes heart-healthy oils and flavorful spices that contribute to overall wellness. By choosing this salad, you enhance your nutrition with a variety of essential nutrients in a single, delicious dish.
Storage
Store leftover Asian Chicken Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days to maintain freshness. Keep the crunchy wonton strips separate and add them just before serving to preserve their texture. Your sesame-ginger dressing can be refrigerated in a sealed jar for up to one week for easy meal prep.
Variation or Alternatives
You can substitute grilled chicken breast with grilled tofu or shrimp for a different protein option that maintains the Asian flavor profile. Swap crunchy wonton strips for toasted almonds or sesame crackers to add texture while accommodating gluten-free preferences. For a lighter dressing variation, replace canola oil with extra virgin olive oil or omit honey for a less sweet taste. Consider marinating the chicken in soy sauce and ginger before grilling to enhance depth of flavor and tenderness.
Allergies
Your Asian Chicken Salad from Au Bon Pain contains common allergens such as soy from the low-sodium soy sauce and sesame from both the sesame seeds and toasted sesame oil. The crunchy wonton strips may include wheat, posing a risk for gluten allergies. Individuals with sensitivities to garlic, ginger, or honey should also exercise caution when consuming this salad.
Why this recipe?
The Asian Chicken Salad from Au Bon Pain features a unique blend of crisp greens, grilled chicken, crunchy wonton strips, and a tangy ginger dressing, delivering a perfect balance of flavors and textures that satisfy health-conscious diners. Its fresh, vibrant ingredients offer a nutritious meal option rich in protein and antioxidants, appealing to those seeking both taste and wellness. Creating a copycat version allows you to enjoy the same delicious taste at home while controlling ingredient quality and customization to fit your dietary preferences. This salad's distinctive fusion of Asian-inspired flavors makes it a standout menu item worth replicating for your next healthy meal.