Copycat Panera Bread Strawberry Poppyseed Salad
Ingredients
- 2 boneless
skinless chicken breasts, about 1 lb. total
- 1 tsp. sodium-free lemon pepper
- Kosher salt
- 2 tbsp. distilled white vinegar
- 1/2 tsp. finely grated orange zest
- 1 tbsp. fresh orange juice
- 1 tsp. Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp. poppy seeds
- 3/4 tsp. granulated sugar
- 1/2 tsp. dried minced onions
- 1/3 c. vegetable oil
- 1 head romaine
chopped, 10-oz.
- 1 Mandarin oranges in light syrup
drained, 10.5 oz.-can
- 3/4 c. pineapple chunks
- 3/4 c. strawberries
quartered
- 1/2 c. blueberries 
- 1/3 c. toasted pecans
roughly chopped
Directions
- 1
Prepare a grill for medium-high heat; heat 5 minutes (or preheat a grill pan over medium-high heat). Place chicken between 2 pieces of plastic wrap and pound with a meat mallet into 1/2"-thick pieces. Season chicken all over with lemon pepper and 3/4 teaspoon salt.
- 2
Grill chicken, turning halfway through, until golden brown and just cooked through, about 5 minutes per side. Transfer to a cutting board and let cool slightly.
- 3
In a medium bowl, whisk vinegar, orange zest, orange juice, mustard, poppy seeds, granulated sugar, dried onions, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Slowly stream in oil, whisking constantly, until dressing is smooth and emulsified.
- 4
In a large bowl, toss romaine with one-third of dressing; season with salt. Thinly slice chicken against the grain and arrange over lettuce. Top with oranges, pineapple, strawberries, blueberries, and pecans. Serve with remaining dressing alongside.
Copycat Panera Bread Strawberry Poppyseed Salad
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About this Recipe
Craving the vibrant, refreshing taste of Panera Bread's famous Strawberry Poppyseed Salad without leaving your home? This copycat recipe brings those bright, irresistible flavors directly to your kitchen, letting you enjoy your favorite seasonal salad any time you like.
What truly makes this salad shine is the iconic poppyseed dressing, a perfectly balanced blend of tangy vinegar, sweet orange, and a hint of Dijon mustard, all studded with those characteristic poppy seeds. Paired with tender chicken, crisp romaine, and an abundance of fresh fruit, it’s a harmonious symphony of textures and tastes that’s both satisfying and light. You’ll love how quickly this comes together, bringing restaurant-quality freshness to your table in a flash.
Prepare for a delightful medley of flavors with every bite. You'll experience the juicy sweetness of fresh strawberries and blueberries, complemented by the tropical tang of Mandarin oranges and pineapple chunks. The crisp romaine provides a refreshing crunch, while the savory chicken breast adds a satisfying protein boost. Finishing it all off are toasted pecans, lending a subtle nutty warmth and crucial texture. This salad is a feast for the senses, perfect for a sunny afternoon or a light, wholesome meal.
Customization & Variations
One of the best parts about making your own salad is tailoring it to your preferences. To make this a vegetarian Copycat Panera Bread Strawberry Poppyseed Salad, simply omit the chicken breast entirely. You can swap out the toasted pecans for walnuts, sliced almonds, or even sunflower seeds if you prefer. Feel free to experiment with other fresh berries like raspberries or blackberries, or add sliced peaches for a different summery twist.
This Copycat Panera Bread Strawberry Poppyseed Salad is ideal for a fresh lunch, a light dinner, or as an impressive side dish for a casual gathering. Serve it in a large, shallow bowl to showcase all the beautiful colors and textures.