Applebees Oriental Chicken Salad Recipe

Applebee’s Oriental Chicken Salad is a fan favorite for its perfect mix of crispy chicken, crunchy greens, and sweet-savory dressing. This copycat recipe brings the same restaurant flavor straight to your kitchen. Quick to prepare, full of texture, and easy to customize it’s a dish worth mastering. Keep reading to learn how to make it step by step.

Why This Copycat Applebees Oriental Chicken Salad Recipe Stands Out:

Applebee’s Oriental Chicken Salad has earned a spot as one of the chain’s most popular menu items. It’s not just another chicken salad it’s a balanced combination of crisp breaded chicken, fresh greens, crunchy almonds, and a creamy-sweet oriental dressing. Every bite delivers contrasting textures and flavors, making it both satisfying and refreshing.

What makes this copycat version special is how easily you can recreate it at home without sacrificing taste. You control the freshness of the vegetables, the crispiness of the chicken, and the exact sweetness of the dressing. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or just upgrade your lunch routine, this recipe captures everything you love about the original.

Key Ingredients You’ll Need:

The beauty of Applebee’s Oriental Chicken Salad is its simple ingredient list—easy to find, yet full of flavor. Here’s what you’ll need to recreate the dish at home:

For the Salad Base

• Napa cabbage or coleslaw mix: adds crispness and a mild bite.
• Romaine or iceberg lettuce: for extra crunch and volume.
• Shredded carrots and red cabbage: brighten the salad with color and texture.
• Green onions: a fresh, mild onion flavor that ties everything together.
• Toasted almonds: provide nutty crunch.
• Crispy chow mein noodles: that signature crispy element Applebee’s uses.

For the Chicken

• Boneless chicken breast or tenders: lean and easy to bread.
• Flour, egg, and breadcrumbs or panko: for coating the chicken before frying or baking.
• Seasonings: salt, pepper, garlic powder, and a touch of paprika for flavor.
• Oil for frying: or a light spray of oil if baking for a healthier version.

For the Oriental Dressing

• Mayonnaise: forms the creamy base.
• Honey: balances tang with sweetness.
• Rice vinegar: adds that essential mild acidity.
• Dijon mustard or dry mustard: gives a subtle sharpness.
• Sesame oil: just a drop for authentic flavor.

Ingredient swaps:

Use grilled chicken if you prefer it lighter. Swap peanuts or cashews for almonds if that’s what you have on hand. For gluten-free, use rice flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs and tamari instead of soy sauce if your dressing includes it.

The Signature Oriental Dressing:

The dressing is what gives Applebee’s Oriental Chicken Salad its signature flavor—creamy, tangy, and slightly sweet with just a hint of sesame. Making it at home is quick, and you only need a few pantry staples.

How to Make It

• Combine the base ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, honey, and rice vinegar until smooth.
• Add the flavor boosters: Mix in Dijon mustard (or dry mustard) for sharpness and just a touch of sesame oil for that nutty aroma.
• Whisk until creamy: The dressing should have a pourable consistency, thick enough to cling to the salad but not too heavy.
• Taste and adjustL: Add more honey if you like it sweeter or a splash more vinegar for extra tang.

Why This Dressing Works

• Balanced flavor: The sweetness from honey offsets the acidity of rice vinegar.
• Creamy texture: Mayonnaise coats every bite of salad evenly.
• Hint of sesame: Just a few drops of sesame oil give it a restaurant-style finish without overpowering the flavor.

Make It Ahead

This dressing keeps well in the fridge for up to 5 days in an airtight container. If it thickens after chilling, simply whisk in a teaspoon of water before serving.

Preparing the Crispy Chicken:

The crispy chicken is the heart of Applebee’s Oriental Chicken Salad—it adds savory crunch and makes the salad feel like a full meal. Here’s how to make it at home:

Choose the Right Cut

Boneless chicken breasts work best for slicing into strips. Chicken tenders are also a great option for quick cooking.

Bread the Chicken

• Prep your coating stations: Place flour in one bowl, beaten eggs in another, and breadcrumbs (or panko) mixed with a little salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika in a third.
• Coat the chicken: Dredge each piece in flour, dip in egg, then press into breadcrumbs for a thick, even crust.

Cook Until Golden

• Frying: Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat and cook chicken 3–4 minutes per side until crispy and fully cooked.
• Baking: For a lighter option, bake breaded chicken on a parchment-lined tray at 400°F (200°C) for 18–20 minutes, flipping once. Lightly spray with oil before baking for extra crunch.
• Air frying: Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 12–14 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Slice and Serve

Once the chicken is cooked through and golden brown, let it rest for a few minutes. Then slice into strips or bite-sized pieces so it’s ready to top the salad.

Quick Tips:

Keep the oil temperature steady so the crust crisps without burning. If making ahead, store chicken separately and reheat in the oven or air fryer to keep it crunchy. Use seasoned breadcrumbs or add grated Parmesan for extra flavor.

Assembling the Salad Step by Step:

Once your dressing is ready and the chicken is perfectly crispy, it’s time to put everything together. The key is to layer the ingredients so every bite has crunch, flavor, and that creamy-sweet finish.

Start With the Base

In a large bowl, combine shredded napa cabbage, romaine or iceberg lettuce, carrots, and red cabbage. Toss lightly to mix for even color and crunch.

Add the Texture Boosters

Sprinkle in toasted almonds for a nutty bite. Add crispy chow mein noodles for that restaurant-style crunch. Mix in sliced green onions for freshness.

Dress the Salad Lightly

Drizzle half of the oriental dressing over the greens and toss until lightly coated. Save the remaining dressing to drizzle over the top when serving.

Top With Crispy Chicken

Arrange sliced chicken strips neatly on top of the salad. For extra flavor, lightly brush or drizzle the chicken with a spoonful of dressing before serving.

Final Touches

Add an extra sprinkle of almonds or noodles right before serving for extra crunch. Serve immediately to keep everything crisp and fresh.

Tips for Perfect Assembly:

Keep dressing separate until serving if you’re prepping ahead—this prevents soggy greens. Layer don’t dump building the salad in layers keeps it looking and tasting restaurant-quality.

• Portion control: Toss only what you’ll eat right away; store leftover ingredients separately.

Recipe Variations and Healthy Swaps:

One of the best things about this copycat Applebee’s Oriental Chicken Salad is how flexible it is. You can tweak the ingredients to fit your taste, dietary needs, or what you have in the pantry.

Lighter Options

• Grilled chicken instead of fried: Swap crispy breaded chicken for grilled breast strips to reduce calories and fat.
• Low-fat dressing: Use light mayonnaise or Greek yogurt in the dressing for a creamy texture with fewer calories.
• Less sugar: Cut the honey in half if you prefer a tangier, less sweet flavor.

Add More Vegetables

Mix in bell peppers, cucumbers, or edamame for added crunch and nutrition. Swap romaine for spinach or kale for an extra vitamin boost.

Nut and Allergen-Friendly Versions

• Nut-free option: Leave out almonds or replace with crispy sunflower seeds.
• Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and chow mein noodles or replace with crispy rice noodles.

Flavor Twists

• Spicy kick: Add a pinch of chili flakes or sriracha to the dressing.
• Citrus note: A squeeze of fresh orange or lime juice brightens the flavor.
• Asian-inspired proteins: Try sesame-crusted tofu or teriyaki chicken for a different twist.

Make-Ahead Tips and Storing Leftovers:

This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but with a few smart tricks, you can prep it in advance without losing its crunch.

Making Components Ahead

• Dressing: Whisk and refrigerate in a sealed container for up to 5 days. Stir well before using, and add a splash of water if it thickens.
• Chicken: Cook and bread the chicken up to 2 days ahead. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat in an oven or air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5–8 minutes to restore crispiness.
• Salad base: Chop cabbage, lettuce, carrots, and green onions up to 24 hours ahead. Store separately in paper towel–lined containers to keep moisture away.

Assembling in Advance

For packed lunches or quick dinners, layer the greens, almonds, and chow mein noodles in a container, but keep chicken and dressing separate. Add them just before eating to prevent sogginess.

Storing Leftovers

If already dressed, the salad will stay fresh for up to 1 day in the fridge, but it may lose some crunch. If undressed, the salad base lasts 2–3 days when stored in a sealed container. Always store chicken separately to keep the breading from softening.

Nutrition Facts and Health Insights:

Applebee’s Oriental Chicken Salad is flavorful and satisfying, but understanding its nutrition can help you decide how it fits into your diet—especially if you’re making this copycat version at home.

Typical Nutrition Profile (Restaurant Style)

A full-size serving from Applebee’s can contain approximately:

• Calories: 1400–1500
• Protein: 60–65 g
• Carbohydrates: 100–110 g
• Fat: 85–90 g

Much of the calorie load comes from the fried chicken and creamy dressing.

Homemade Copycat Version

When you make it yourself, you control the ingredients:

Lighter breading or grilled chicken cuts both fat and calories significantly. Adjusting the dressing (using light mayo or less honey) can save 100+ calories per serving. Extra veggies add bulk and fiber without adding many calories.

Is It Healthy?

• High in protein: The chicken makes it satisfying and filling.
• Packed with fresh veggies: Cabbage, lettuce, and carrots add vitamins, minerals, and crunch.
• Higher in fat and sugar: Creamy dressing and crispy breading increase calorie content.

How to Make It Healthier

Grill or air-fry chicken instead of deep-frying. Serve dressing on the side or drizzle lightly. Add more greens to balance the ratio of chicken to veggies.

Serving Suggestions:

Applebee’s Oriental Chicken Salad is filling on its own, but pairing it with the right sides or presenting it creatively can make it even better.

What to Serve With It

• Fresh fruit: Sliced oranges, pineapple, or melon complement the salad’s sweet dressing.
• Light soups: A clear broth or miso soup balances the richness of the chicken.
• Crusty bread or rolls: Great for soaking up extra dressing.
• Iced tea or lemonade: Refreshing drinks that pair perfectly with the salad’s sweet-sour flavor profile.

Turn It Into a Different Meal

• Oriental chicken wrap: Roll the salad in a tortilla for a portable lunch.
• Bowl-style meal: Serve over brown rice or quinoa to make it heartier.
• Party platter: Arrange the components separately for a build-your-own salad bar.

Presentation Tips

Use a wide, shallow bowl to show off the colors and textures. Sprinkle a few extra almonds and chow mein noodles on top right before serving to keep that fresh crunch. Serve the dressing on the side if guests prefer to control how much they use.

Final Tips for Perfect Results Every Time:

Even with a simple recipe, a few small tricks can take your Applebee’s Oriental Chicken Salad from good to unforgettable.

Keep Ingredients Fresh

Use crisp greens and freshly shredded cabbage—wilted vegetables make the salad flat. Toast almonds right before serving to bring out their flavor.

Get the Chicken Just Right

Maintain medium heat when frying so the breading crisps without burning.  Rest chicken a few minutes before slicing to keep juices inside. For grilling or air frying, brush with a light coat of oil to mimic the golden crust of fried chicken.

Balance the Dressing

Taste before serving if it’s too tangy, add a touch more honey; if too sweet, add a splash of vinegar. Toss lightly rather than drowning the greens to avoid sogginess.

Assemble at the Last Minute

Keep dressing and chicken separate until you’re ready to serve. Add crispy toppings, like chow mein noodles, just before eating so they stay crunchy.

Short on Time?

Use pre-breaded frozen chicken tenders as a shortcut. Buy a bagged coleslaw mix instead of chopping cabbage from scratch.

Conclusion

Applebees Oriental Chicken Salad Recipe

Discover how to make the delicious Applebee's Oriental Chicken Salad recipe at home with crispy chicken, fresh greens, and a tangy Asian-inspired dressing.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 35 minutes mins

Servings: 6

Course: Appetizer, Main Course, Salad

Cuisine: American

Ingredients Method

Ingredients

  

• For the Salad:
• 4 cups romaine lettuce chopped
• 2 cups Napa cabbage chopped
• 1 1/2 cups red cabbage thinly sliced
• 3/4 cup julienned carrots
• 3 green onions sliced
• 1/4 cup toasted sliced almonds
• 1 cup chow mein noodles
• For the Chicken:
• 2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup buttermilk
• 1 cup crushed cornflakes
• 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 3/4 teaspoon salt
• Oil for deep-frying alternatively, you can fry the chicken strips in a pan
• For the Oriental Salad Dressing:
• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 1/2 cup honey
• 1/3 cup Chinese rice vinegar
• 4 teaspoons Dijon mustard
• 4 teaspoons quality toasted sesame oil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Method

 

1. To make the dressing, place all the dressing ingredients in a container with a lid and shake until thoroughly combined. Refrigerate until ready to use.
2. Combine all the salad ingredients, reserving the green onions. Cover and refrigerate.
3. Using a deep fryer or a skillet, heat the oil to 375 degrees F.
4. Whisk the eggs and buttermilk together in a medium bowl. Using another medium shallow bowl, combine the crushed cornflakes, flour and salt.
5. Dip the chicken strips into the egg mixture, then dredge in the cornflake mixture, coating all sides.
6. Working in batches, fry the chicken strips until deep golden brown, about 7-8 minutes. Drain on paper towels and slice into bite-sized pieces.
7. Arrange the salad on the plates, top with some sliced chicken in the center, sprinkle with toasted almonds, chow mein noodles, green onions, and serve with the Oriental salad dressing.