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Bowl of Panera-style chicken salad with grapes and pecans on a wooden table with bread.

Panera Chicken Salad Recipe for Lunchbox Garden Lunches

Make your own Panera-style chicken salad at home for a fraction of the cost. This budget-friendly recipe is perfect for packed lunches and garden picnics.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Resting Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 3 cups cooked chicken shredded or diced
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1/2 cup chopped celery
  • 1/2 cup red seedless grapes halved
  • 1/3 cup toasted pecans chopped
  • 1/4 cup finely diced red onion
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Method
 

  1. In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, honey, and lemon juice until smooth.
  2. Add the cooked chicken, celery, grapes, pecans, and red onion. Stir gently until everything is evenly coated.
  3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let flavors meld.
  5. Serve chilled or at room temperature on bread, lettuce cups, or with crackers.