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Applebees Chicken Salad

Applebees Chicken Salad

The ultimate comfort food comes alive in this Applebees Chicken Salad. Crispy chicken, fresh greens, and a delightful dressing create a perfect balance for an easy weeknight dinner. You'll want to make this salad tonight!
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Salads
Cuisine: American
Calories: 420
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups frozen crispy chicken strips See note 1
  • 1 package hearts of romaine salad See note 2
  • 8 ounces coleslaw mix 1/2 of 1 package, see note 3
  • 1 can mandarin oranges
  • 1/3 cup crispy chow mein noodles See note 4
  • 1/3 cup sliced almonds See note 5
  • 1/3 cup mayo
  • 3 tablespoons honey
  • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
  • 1/4 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
  • 1-1/2 teaspoons Dijon-style mustard
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/8 teaspoon pepper

Equipment

  • Large bowl

Method
 

  1. Cook the chicken strips according to package directions, preferably using an air fryer for that perfect crisp. Let cool to warm, then thinly slice or chop.
  2. While the chicken is cooking, whisk together the mayo, honey, rice vinegar, toasted sesame oil, Dijon mustard, and season with salt and pepper. Taste and adjust any seasoning.
  3. In a large bowl, combine romaine lettuce, coleslaw mix, drained mandarin oranges, and sliced chicken. Toss together to combine.
  4. Drizzle dressing over the salad and toss well to coat. Divide chow mein noodles and almonds evenly among individual servings.
  5. Enjoy your salad immediately while fresh! Store dressing separately if making in advance.

Notes

  • Use Tyson® Crispy Chicken Strips: or any preferred brand. Cook in the oven or air fryer, not the microwave. Slice the chicken for even distribution. Aim for about 8 ounces (~2 cups or 4–5 tenders) total.
  • Plain Romaine: This is just plain romaine lettuce that has been chopped.
  • Coleslaw Mix: Use a mix with only green cabbage, red cabbage, and carrots (don’t grab a prepared coleslaw mixed with dressing).
  • Crunchy Noodles: These are found in the international or dry pasta aisle.
  • Sliced Almonds: I like getting toasted sliced almonds.
  • Storage: Dressed salad doesn’t store well. For leftovers or make-ahead, store the dressing separately from the salad. Keep chicken, almonds, and chow mein noodles separate from the lettuce/coleslaw and dressing.