Southern Pecan Chicken Tender Salad from O'Charley's features crispy, golden chicken tenders atop fresh mixed greens, tossed with toasted pecans, shredded cheese, and tomatoes, all drizzled with a tangy dressing for a satisfying blend of crunchy and savory flavors.
Equipments
- Mixing bowls
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Salad spinner
- Tongs
- Frying pan or deep fryer
- Baking sheet (optional for toasting pecans)
- Cheese grater
- Plate or salad bowl
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) chicken tenders
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 cups vegetable oil (for frying)
- 6 cups mixed salad greens
- 1 cup grape tomatoes
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1/2 cup pecan halves
- 2 tablespoons butter (for toasting pecans)
- Salad dressing of choice (honey mustard or ranch recommended)
Chicken tenders are best marinated in buttermilk to ensure they stay juicy and tender after frying. When coating the chicken, evenly mix the flour with salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder for a well-balanced flavor. Toasting pecans in butter releases their natural oils and enhances crunchiness, adding a rich depth to the salad. Use fresh mixed greens and ripe grape tomatoes to keep the salad crisp and vibrant. Your Southern Pecan Chicken Tender Salad from O'Charley's copycat menu will offer the perfect combination of crispy chicken, toasted pecans, fresh vegetables, and tangy dressing for an authentic taste experience.
Instructions
- Marinate chicken tenders in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C), if toasting pecans.
- Toss pecan halves with melted butter; toast on a baking sheet for 8–10 minutes or until fragrant. Let cool.
- Combine flour, salt, black pepper, paprika, and garlic powder in a mixing bowl.
- Heat vegetable oil in frying pan or deep fryer to 350°F (175°C).
- Dredge marinated chicken tenders in seasoned flour mixture.
- Fry chicken tenders until crispy and golden brown, about 4–6 minutes, turning as needed. Drain on paper towel.
- Wash and dry mixed salad greens using salad spinner.
- Halve grape tomatoes using knife and cutting board.
- Grate cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese if not pre-shredded.
- Assemble salad: Arrange salad greens on plate or salad bowl.
- Top with grape tomatoes, toasted pecans, and shredded cheeses.
- Slice or leave chicken tenders whole, then place atop salad.
- Drizzle with salad dressing of choice.
- Toss lightly with tongs (optional) and serve immediately.
Substitution
Southern Pecan Chicken Tender Salad from O'Charley's combines crispy chicken tenders, fresh greens, toasted pecans, shredded cheese, and tomatoes, dressed with a tangy honey mustard or ranch. If buttermilk is unavailable, you can substitute with regular milk mixed with a tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to tenderize the chicken. For frying, a deep fryer yields the crispiest tenders, but a heavy frying pan with vegetable oil also works well. Toasting pecans enhances their flavor, but you can skip this step if short on time; your salad will still be delicious. When assembling, using salad tongs helps evenly distribute ingredients and dressing for balanced bites.
Tips
Remember to marinate your chicken tenders in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes to ensure they stay juicy and tender during frying. Heating the vegetable oil to a consistent 350degF (175degC) is key for achieving a crispy, golden exterior without greasy absorption. Toast the pecans in the oven on a baking sheet at 350degF for 8-10 minutes to enhance their crunch and flavor; stir occasionally to prevent burning. Use a salad spinner to thoroughly dry your mixed greens, helping the dressing adhere better and keep your salad crisp.
Nutritions
Southern Pecan Chicken Tender Salad provides a balanced mix of protein from the crispy chicken tenders and healthy fats from toasted pecans. The fresh mixed greens and grape tomatoes supply essential vitamins and dietary fiber, supporting digestion and immunity. Shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese contribute calcium and additional protein, enhancing the nutritional profile. Your choice of honey mustard or ranch dressing can add calories and flavor, so selecting a lighter option may better align with dietary goals.
Storage
To maintain the freshness of your Southern Pecan Chicken Tender Salad, store the assembled salad without dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Keep the crispy chicken tenders separately wrapped in paper towels inside a container to prevent sogginess. Toasted pecans should be stored in a sealed container at room temperature to preserve their crunch for several days.
Variation or Alternatives
You can substitute grilled chicken tenders seasoned with smoked paprika for a healthier option that adds a subtle smoky flavor. Swap mixed greens for baby spinach or arugula to introduce a peppery note to the salad. Toast pecans in a dry skillet instead of the oven for quicker preparation while still achieving a rich, nutty aroma. Use crumbled blue cheese in place of shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack to enhance the salad's savory depth.
Allergies
The Southern Pecan Chicken Tender Salad contains common allergens such as dairy from the buttermilk, shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses, and butter used to toast the pecans. Tree nuts are present in the pecans, which can trigger severe allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. You should carefully check ingredient labels or consult the restaurant if you have allergies to nuts, dairy, or gluten found in the all-purpose flour.
Why this recipe?
Southern Pecan Chicken Tender Salad from O'Charley's is loved for its crispy, golden chicken tenders perfectly complemented by toasted pecans and fresh garden greens, delivering a satisfying blend of textures and flavors. The salad combines savory, nutty, and slightly sweet elements with a zesty dressing that enhances every bite. Making a copycat version allows you to recreate this iconic dish at home, customizing ingredients to your taste while enjoying the same rich satisfaction. Your homemade Southern Pecan Chicken Tender Salad offers a fresh, crave-worthy experience without the wait.