ASIAN SESAME CHICKEN SALAD

ASIAN SESAME CHICKEN SALAD

A copycat recipe for Panera’s Asian Sesame Chicken Salad. Crispy, fresh romaine, sliced almonds, sesame seeds, tender sliced grilled chicken, and wonton strips — all topped with a sweet and tangy Asian sesame vinaigrette. So much goodness all packed into ONE salad!

INGREDIENTS:

SESAME VINAIGRETTE:

1. 1/2 cup rice vinegar
2. 1/4 cup sugar
3. 2 whole cloves garlic, smashed
4. 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
5. 1/4 cup canola oil
6. 2 tablespoons soy sauce
7. 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds

SALAD:

1. 4 hearts romaine lettuce, chopped (or spring mix)
2. 1 (15 oz can) mandarin oranges, drained
3. 1/2 cup wonton strips (see notes)
4. 1/3 cup sliced almonds
5. 1/3 cup chopped cilantro
6. 12 ounces cooked grilled chicken, sliced or diced (see note)

DIRECTIONS:

1. FOR THE DRESSING: Place the rice vinegar in a small saucepan over medium heat and allow it to just come to a gentle boil, add the sugar and garlic cloves and let the sugar dissolves, about 1 minute. Remove the rice vinegar mixture from the stove and discard the garlic cloves. Place the rice vinegar mixture in a mason jar and add the sesame oil, canola oil, soy sauce and toasted sesame seeds. Allow the dressing to come to room temperature, about 10-15 minutes. Screw on the lid and give it a good shake until the dressing mixes together. Please note, homemade salad dressing will separate as it sits, just give it a good shake before pouring onto the salad.
2. ASSEMBLE THE SALAD: In a large bowl, combine all the ingredients for the salad and top with the sesame vinaigrette. Serve immediately.

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