California Chicken Salad from O'Charley's features tender grilled chicken, crisp mixed greens, juicy grape tomatoes, creamy avocado slices, and crunchy walnuts, all tossed in a zesty citrus vinaigrette for a refreshing and flavorful meal.
Equipments
- Grill or grill pan
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Salad bowl
- Mixing bowl
- Salad tongs or serving spoons
- Measuring spoons
- Whisk
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 6 cups mixed salad greens
- 1 cup grape tomatoes
- 1 large avocado
- 1/2 cup walnuts
- 1/4 cup fresh orange juice
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
When preparing your California Chicken Salad, ensure the chicken breasts are grilled to juicy perfection using olive oil, salt, and pepper for seasoning. Use fresh mixed salad greens and sweet grape tomatoes to maintain the salad's crisp texture and vibrant flavor. Ripe avocado slices add creaminess, while walnuts bring a satisfying crunch, creating a balanced combination of textures. The citrus vinaigrette, made with fresh orange juice, lemon juice, honey, Dijon mustard, and extra-virgin olive oil, enhances the salad with zesty and refreshing notes. Your California Chicken Salad from O'Charley's copycat menu will deliver an authentic taste experience with these carefully selected ingredients.
Instructions
- Instructions:
- Preheat grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
- Brush chicken breasts with 1 tablespoon olive oil.
- Season chicken with salt and black pepper on both sides.
- Grill chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, until cooked through and juices run clear.
- Remove chicken from grill and let rest for 5 minutes.
- Slice grilled chicken into strips.
- Rinse and dry mixed salad greens.
- Halve grape tomatoes.
- Pit, peel, and slice avocado.
- Roughly chop walnuts if desired.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together orange juice, lemon juice, honey, Dijon mustard, and extra-virgin olive oil to make citrus vinaigrette.
- Add salad greens, grape tomatoes, avocado, and walnuts to salad bowl.
- Drizzle with prepared citrus vinaigrette.
- Toss salad gently to combine.
- Top salad with sliced grilled chicken.
- Serve immediately.
Substitution
California Chicken Salad from O'Charley's copycat menu combines smoky grilled chicken with fresh mixed greens, bright grape tomatoes, creamy avocado, and crunchy walnuts, all dressed in a tangy citrus vinaigrette. You can substitute chicken breasts with turkey or tofu for a different protein option while maintaining the dish's texture and flavor balance. If fresh orange juice is unavailable, bottled orange juice or a mix of orange zest and lemon juice works well without compromising zestiness. Walnuts may be replaced with almonds or pecans for a similar crunch, and avocado can be swapped with cucumber or bell pepper for added freshness. Using a grill pan instead of an outdoor grill provides a convenient indoor cooking alternative without sacrificing the grilled taste.
Tips
Ensure your grill or grill pan is properly preheated to medium-high heat to achieve a perfect sear on the chicken breasts without drying them out. Let the grilled chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing to allow juices to redistribute, keeping the meat tender and juicy. When preparing the citrus vinaigrette, whisk the ingredients thoroughly to emulsify the mixture for a smooth, balanced flavor. Gently toss the salad to avoid bruising the delicate avocado slices and mixed greens, which will maintain the fresh texture of your California Chicken Salad.
Nutritions
California Chicken Salad offers a balanced mix of lean protein from grilled chicken breasts and heart-healthy fats found in avocado and walnuts. The fresh mixed greens and grape tomatoes contribute fiber, vitamins A and C, and antioxidants essential for immune support. The citrus vinaigrette made with fresh orange juice, lemon juice, and extra-virgin olive oil adds flavor while providing vitamin C and monounsaturated fats. You can enjoy a satisfying meal that supports muscle repair, heart health, and overall wellness.
Storage
Store leftover California Chicken Salad in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent sogginess. Keep the salad refrigerated and consume within 1-2 days to enjoy optimal texture and flavor. You can store the grilled chicken separately to preserve its juiciness before adding it to your salad when ready to serve.
Variation or Alternatives
For a variation, swap walnuts with toasted pecans or sliced almonds to add different nutty flavors and textures. You can substitute grilled chicken breasts with grilled shrimp or tofu for a pescatarian or vegetarian option. Consider replacing the citrus vinaigrette with a balsamic vinaigrette or a yogurt-based dressing to change the salad's tanginess and creaminess. If fresh citrus juice is unavailable, bottled juice can be used, but adjust sweetness and acidity to your taste.
Allergies
California Chicken Salad contains common allergens such as walnuts, which can trigger severe allergic reactions in individuals with tree nut allergies. The salad also includes Dijon mustard, which may pose a risk for those sensitive to mustard seed allergens. You should exercise caution and verify ingredient suitability if you have food allergies or sensitivities.
Why this recipe?
The California Chicken Salad menu from O'Charley's restaurant is popular due to its fresh ingredients, including crisp mixed greens, ripe avocado slices, juicy grilled chicken, and a zesty citrus dressing that creates a balanced and flavorful meal. The combination of textures and healthful components appeals to diners seeking a nutritious yet satisfying option. Making a copycat version at home allows you to customize the flavors and control ingredient quality, ensuring a restaurant-quality dish tailored to your preferences. You'll appreciate the cost savings and the ability to recreate the vibrant taste anytime with familiar ingredients.