As I settled down to enjoy my homemade Panera-inspired Chicken Walnut Sandwich, I couldn’t help but think of the delightful sides that complement a hearty sandwich. Pair it with a light salad, perhaps a refreshing cucumber tomato salad bursting with flavors.
A side of sweet potato fries adds a lovely crunch and sweetness to your plate. Or, for those who love a warm touch, a bowl of homemade minestrone soup warms both the heart and the belly.
Each of these combinations elevates the experience and takes your lunch or dinner to another level.
Let’s take a culinary adventure. Today, I want to share my take on the cherished Panera Chicken Walnut Sandwich.
This delicious marvel blends the comforts of shredded chicken, crunchy walnuts, and a tangy homemade dressing, all nestled between slices of wholesome bread.
It’s a recipe I often turn to when I want something quick yet satisfying. Trust me, if you need a lunchtime pick-me-up, this is it. With easy-to-follow steps, you’ll become a pro in no time.
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Why This Recipe Works?
1. Delightful Flavor Combination:
The marriage of tender chicken and crunchy walnuts creates a textural imbalance that’s utterly satisfying.
Then there’s the creamy yogurt and hint of honey dressing that ties the dish together beautifully. Each bite delivers a burst of flavor, ensuring you won’t forget this sandwich anytime soon.
2. Nutritious Ingredients:
This recipe is loaded with wholesome ingredients. Rotisserie chicken adds protein without the hassle of cooking from scratch. The walnuts bring healthy fats to the table, and the Greek yogurt packs a punch of probiotics. This sandwich is not just tasty; it’s nourishing.
3. Easy to Prepare:
Let’s be real—time is precious. This recipe allows busy folks, like yourself, to whip up a scrumptious meal in under 30 minutes. The steps are straightforward, and you likely have most of the ingredients in your pantry.
4. Versatile and Customizable:
Whether you prefer your sandwich with hearty rye bread or crisp lettuce wraps, this recipe adapts to your needs. Feel free to mix in your favorite veggies for added crunch or swap the dressing ingredients for something spicier. The options are endless.
How Does It Taste Like?
Imagine this: you take a bite of the sandwich, and the soft, shredded chicken meets the crunchy walnuts. The dressing is rich yet light, creating a luxurious feel with every morsel. A hint of tang lingers on your palate, infused by lemon juice and spices. It’s a symphony of flavors and textures that will keep you coming back for more.
What Sets This Recipe Apart from Other Variations?
What makes my version shine is its foundation on simplicity and health. Many versions online lean heavily on mayo, making them feel greasy.
My recipe swaps heavy mayo for Greek yogurt, which delivers creaminess without compromising your waistline. Instead of relying on overly processed dressings, my blend incorporates fresh, whole ingredients.
This approach not only maximizes taste but also enhances nutritional value.
The Ingredients
To create this masterpiece, gather the following items:
Salad
- 1 cup finely chopped celery stalks
- ½ cup minced red onion
- 1 cup halved seedless red grapes
- 3 cups shredded rotisserie chicken breast
- ¼ cup toasted almond slivers
Dressing
- Juice of ½ a fresh lemon
- 1 cup fat-free plain Greek yogurt
- ⅓ cup light mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard, ideally with a hint of spice
- 1 tbsp maple syrup or honey
- 1 tsp apple cider vinegar
- ½ tsp kosher salt
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp freshly cracked black pepper
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
Sandwich
- Fresh tomato slices
- Crisp lettuce or baby spinach leaves
- 2 tbsp sweet and spicy relish
- Dill pickle slices or bread-and-butter pickles (optional)
- 8 slices of thick-cut dark rye or multigrain bread
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dressing
Start with the dressing, as it’s the essence of your sandwich. In a medium bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, light mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, lemon juice, kosher salt, onion powder, black pepper, and chopped parsley.
Mix until smooth and creamy. This will be the magic sauce that brings everything together.
Step 2: Combine the Salad Ingredients
In a large bowl, toss together the chopped celery, minced red onion, halved grapes, shredded chicken, and toasted almond slivers. Ensure everything is evenly coated with the dressing. This combo of ingredients makes for a delightful crunch and sweetness.
Step 3: Assemble the Sandwich
Grab your slices of rye or multigrain bread. Layer the sandwiches with a generous scoop of the chicken walnut mixture. Add fresh tomato slices and crisp lettuce or spinach. If you fancy a little sweetness, spoon on some relish. Let’s be honest, who doesn’t like a little extra flavor?
Step 4: Serve
Cut the sandwiches in half or quarters if you prefer bite-sized pieces. Pair with your chosen sides for a delightful meal. Sit back and relish the satisfaction of a sandwich crafted with love.
Notes
- Chicken Quality: Using rotisserie chicken is a game changer. However, you can poach chicken breasts if you prefer homemade.
- Crunch Factor: Toast your almonds for an added depth of flavor.
- Bread Choice: Try different bread types like sourdough or whole grain for varying tastes.
- Dressing: Feel free to adjust the Dijon mustard and honey to match your preferred spiciness and sweetness.
- Meal Prep: This sandwich can be assembled in advance and stored in the fridge for a busy week ahead.
Nutrition Information
panera chicken walnut sandwich recipe nutrition facts
How Do You Store This Sandwich?
To maintain its freshness, wrap your assembled sandwiches tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container. They can be refrigerated for up to three days. For longer storage, keep the salad mixture separate from the bread and only assemble when ready to enjoy.
Sides for Chicken Walnut Sandwich
1. Crunchy Coleslaw:
A bright, tangy coleslaw complements the richness of the sandwich. Toss together shredded cabbage, carrots, and a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
2. Potato Chips:
It’s hard to resist the crunch of classic potato chips. Opt for kettle-cooked varieties for an extra crispy bite.
3. Fresh Fruit Salad:
A mix of seasonal fruits can add a sweet, refreshing touch to the meal. Consider berries, melons, and pineapple for a colorful and nutritious side.
What Alternatives Can You Use for the Ingredients?
1. Greek Yogurt:
If you’re not a fan, opt for sour cream or tahini. Both offer tasty alternatives while maintaining the creamy texture.
2. Chicken:
Substitute shredded turkey for a different protein preference. This is perfect if you have leftover turkey from the holidays.
3. Nuts:
If anyone has a nut allergy, sunflower seeds can replace walnuts while providing a satisfying crunch and flavor.
4. Bread:
For gluten-free options, use gluten-free bread or lettuce wraps for a light, refreshing touch.
Equipment
- Medium bowl
Ingredients
Salad
- 1 cup finely chopped celery stalks
- ½ cup minced red onion
- 1 cup halved seedless red grapes
- 3 cups shredded rotisserie chicken breast
- ¼ cup toasted almond slivers
Dressing
- Juice of ½ a fresh lemon
- 1 cup fat-free plain Greek yogurt
- ⅓ cup light mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard with a hint of spice
- 1 tbsp maple syrup or honey
- 1 tsp apple cider vinegar
- ½ tsp kosher salt
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp freshly cracked black pepper
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
Sandwich
- Fresh tomato slices
- Crisp lettuce or baby spinach leaves
- 2 tbsp sweet and spicy relish
- Dill pickle slices or bread-and-butter pickles optional
- 8 slices of thick-cut dark rye or multigrain bread
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dressing
- Start with the dressing, as it’s the essence of your sandwich. In a medium bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, light mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, lemon juice, kosher salt, onion powder, black pepper, and chopped parsley.
- Mix until smooth and creamy. This will be the magic sauce that brings everything together.
Step 2: Combine the Salad Ingredients
- In a large bowl, toss together the chopped celery, minced red onion, halved grapes, shredded chicken, and toasted almond slivers. Ensure everything is evenly coated with the dressing. This combo of ingredients makes for a delightful crunch and sweetness.
Step 3: Assemble the Sandwich
- Grab your slices of rye or multigrain bread. Layer the sandwiches with a generous scoop of the chicken walnut mixture. Add fresh tomato slices and crisp lettuce or spinach. If you fancy a little sweetness, spoon on some relish. Let’s be honest, who doesn’t like a little extra flavor?
Step 4: Serve
- Cut the sandwiches in half or quarters if you prefer bite-sized pieces. Pair with your chosen sides for a delightful meal. Sit back and relish the satisfaction of a sandwich crafted with love.
Notes
- Chicken Quality: Using rotisserie chicken is a game changer. However, you can poach chicken breasts if you prefer homemade.
- Crunch Factor: Toast your almonds for an added depth of flavor.
- Bread Choice: Try different bread types like sourdough or whole grain for varying tastes.
- Dressing: Feel free to adjust the Dijon mustard and honey to match your preferred spiciness and sweetness.
- Meal Prep: This sandwich can be assembled in advance and stored in the fridge for a busy week ahead.
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make this sandwich vegetarian?
Yes! You can replace chicken with chickpeas. Simply mash the chickpeas and mix them with the salad ingredients for a fulfilling plant-based option.
2. Can I freeze the sandwich?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the chicken walnut mixture. Just ensure you mix it and thaw thoroughly before assembling with fresh bread.
3. Is this sandwich kid-friendly?
Absolutely! With its mild flavors and pleasant textures, kids will find this sandwich appealing. Plus, you can tailor the ingredients to your child’s taste.
4. How can I spice this up?
Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the dressing for a spicy kick. Alternatively, sprinkle some red pepper flakes in the chicken mixture.
Conclusion
There you have it—your guide to crafting a delightful Panera-inspired Chicken Walnut Sandwich. With its refreshing flavors, easy preparation, and wholesome ingredients, it’s bound to become a favorite in your kitchen.
So, roll up your sleeves, put on your apron, and let’s make lunchtime exciting again! Trust me, this sandwich will impress your taste buds and those of your family and friends.
Happy cooking!