Applebee's Asian Chicken Salad Copycat Recipe: Crunchy Wonton Strips and Sweet Chili Magic

This Applebee's Asian Chicken Salad copycat recipe delivers the exact same crunchy wonton strips, sweet chili dressing, and crisp-tender chicken you love from the restaurant—only better. 🌟 After analyzing the restaurant's flavor profile and testing multiple variations, I've perfected a method that recreates their signature texture and balance of sweet, tangy, and umami notes in your own kitchen.

The secret lies in properly browning the chicken strips for maximum crispiness while keeping the centers juicy, then tossing them with a dressing that's perfectly sweet without being cloying.

I use a blend of rice vinegar and sesame oil to replicate that authentic Asian flavor profile, while fresh edamame and shredded carrots add the right amount of crunch and freshness.

This isn't just a copy—it's a refined version that maintains all the restaurant's appeal while being easier to prepare at home.

What you'll end up with is a salad that looks just like the restaurant version—vibrant greens, crisp wonton strips, perfectly cooked chicken, and all the signature toppings. The dressing clings beautifully to every ingredient, creating that signature sweet-chili flavor that makes this salad so addictive.

Each bite delivers the perfect balance of textures and flavors that keep people coming back for seconds.

Perfect for meal prep or serving as a main dish, this recipe serves four with minimal leftovers—just enough to satisfy a craving without overwhelming your fridge. The best part?

You'll have dinner on the table in under 30 minutes, with only one pot to clean when you're done. Let's get started on recreating this restaurant favorite at home.

Ingredients for applebee's asian chicken salad copycat

Crispy chicken, crunchy wontons, and a dressing that hits that sweet-chili magic—this copycat delivers the restaurant vibe at home.

The chicken breast is your star—boneless, skinless cuts are easiest, but thighs work too (they stay juicier). Look for fresh, plump breasts at the store—Trader Joe's or Costco have great prices. Cut them into 1-inch strips while still cold for cleaner slices. The wonton strips? Grab the Kikkoman brand—they're the closest to Applebee's texture. If you can't find them, wonton wrappers cut into strips and pan-fried work in a pinch (just add a pinch of cornstarch for crispiness).

No sesame oil? Toasted sesame oil from the Asian aisle is a must—it's what gives that authentic restaurant taste. Can't find it? A tiny splash of peanut oil (just ½ tsp) adds a similar nuttiness. The edamame should be lightly salted—if you grab frozen, thaw it in cold water for 5 minutes. For the carrots, a box grater gives the finest shreds, but a mandoline works if you're fancy. The honey should be pure, mild honey—avoid that cheap, overly processed stuff (you know what I mean).

Store the dressing in a sealed jar in the fridge for up to 5 days—it keeps perfectly. The wonton strips lose crispiness fast, so keep them in an airtight container and eat within 2 days. The chicken strips reheat beautifully—toss them in a dry pan for 1-2 minutes to revive the crisp. This salad preps in 10 minutes and eats in 5—perfect for busy weeknights when you're craving that restaurant flavor without the wait.

Step-by-step instructions for Applebee's Asian chicken salad copycat recipe

Here's how to nail that signature crunch and sweet-spicy balance at home!

Cut the 1.5 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast into 1-inch strips—this size ensures even cooking and great texture. Heat 1 tablespoon sesame oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the chicken strips in a single layer and cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they reach 165°F internally and develop a light golden color.

Here's the thing—don't overcrowd the pan. If you need to cook in batches, that's fine, but keep the heat consistent. The chicken should be fully cooked through but still juicy. Once done, remove it from the pan and set aside. You'll want it to cool slightly before combining with the salad—this prevents the spinach from wilting when everything comes together.

In a small bowl, combine 0.5 cup rice vinegar, 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce, 2 tablespoons honey, 2 cloves minced garlic cloves, 1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger root, 0.5 teaspoon red chili flakes, 0.5 teaspoon salt, and 0.25 teaspoon black pepper. Whisk vigorously until everything is fully incorporated and the mixture is smooth—this ensures the dressing coats every bite evenly.

Taste the dressing before adding it to the salad. You want a perfect balance of tangy, sweet, and slightly spicy. If it needs more depth, add a splash of water or a pinch more soy sauce. The dressing should be vibrant and glossy—this is your secret to that restaurant-quality shine. Set it aside while you prep the rest of the salad.

In a large bowl, combine 6 cups fresh baby spinach, 0.5 cup shredded carrots, 0.5 cup shelled edamame, and 1.5 oz crispy wonton strips. Gently toss everything together with your hands or a large spoon—you want to distribute the ingredients evenly without crushing the spinach or breaking the wonton strips. The edamame should be lightly salted but not soggy; if it is, pat it dry with a paper towel before adding.

This is where the magic happens. The crispy wonton strips add that signature Applebee's crunch, while the edamame brings a satisfying chew. Don't skip the tossing step—even distribution ensures every bite has the perfect mix of textures and flavors. Keep the bowl ready; you're about to add the star of the show.

Add the cooked chicken strips to the salad bowl and pour the dressing over everything. Using your hands or a large spoon, toss gently but thoroughly until every piece of chicken, spinach, and wonton strip is coated in the sweet chili dressing. You'll see the spinach start to wilt slightly—that's perfect, as it softens just enough to make the salad more palatable without losing its freshness.

Here's a pro tip: Work quickly but don't rush. You want the dressing to distribute evenly, but you don't want to over-toss and turn the salad into a mushy mess. The wonton strips should still have some crunch, and the chicken should retain its texture. Taste as you go—adjust the dressing if needed, adding a splash more if the salad seems dry.

Transfer the salad to serving plates and sprinkle each portion with 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds. The sesame seeds add a nutty crunch and a beautiful finish. Serve immediately while the wonton strips are still crispy and the dressing is glossy. This salad is best enjoyed fresh—waiting too long will make the wontons soft and the dressing pool at the bottom.

Real talk: This copycat recipe is a game-changer. The balance of sweet, spicy, tangy, and crunchy hits all the right notes. Don't be afraid to adjust the chili flakes if you prefer less heat, or add a squeeze of lime for extra brightness. Pair it with a side of garlic bread or a simple cucumber salad for the ultimate meal!

Serving suggestions for leftovers

Presentation Perfection

Serve this salad in wide, shallow bowls to showcase the vibrant colors and textures—think white ceramic or glass for that restaurant-style presentation. I like using 10-inch round bowls because they give each guest a generous portion while keeping the components visible.

For an extra touch, arrange the crispy wonton strips in a sunburst pattern around the edge of the bowl before adding the greens. This creates visual appeal and ensures everyone gets their share of that signature crunch. 🌟

Garnish Like a Pro

Don’t skip the toasted sesame seeds—they’re the final flourish that elevates this dish from homemade to restaurant-quality. Sprinkle them evenly over the top just before serving, using about 1 tablespoon per bowl.

For added drama, add a few thinly sliced green onions (about 2 tbsp per bowl) in a small pile at the center. This not only looks beautiful but also adds a fresh, oniony brightness that cuts through the richness of the dressing.

Pro move: Use a fine-mesh sieve to dust the sesame seeds for an even, professional finish.

Meal Pairing Ideas

This salad stands alone as a satisfying meal, but pairing it with the right sides can turn it into a full restaurant experience. Serve with warm garlic bread—I love using a baguette sliced into thick pieces, brushed with garlic-infused olive oil, and toasted until golden.

For a lighter option, a cucumber salad with rice vinegar, sugar, and sesame seeds complements the Asian flavors beautifully. If you're craving something heartier, add steamed jasmine rice on the side for a complete Asian-inspired feast. 🍚

Dressing on the Side

For those who prefer to control their sweetness or spice level, offer the dressing on the side in small shot glasses or ramekins. This is especially useful if you have kids or sensitive palates at the table.

Just whisk the dressing together fresh and portion it into 2-tablespoon servings per person. Label it with a cute note like "Sweet Chili Magic—Add More if You Dare!" to set the playful tone. Trust me, this small detail will make your copycat salad feel even more special. ✨

Make-Ahead Tips

While this salad is best enjoyed fresh, you can prep components ahead of time to save effort on busy days. Store the dressing in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days—it keeps beautifully.

Assemble the salad base (spinach, carrots, edamame) in advance and refrigerate it separately. When ready to serve, toss everything together with the dressing and add the chicken and wonton strips just before serving to maintain their crispness.

This way, you’ll spend only 5 minutes at the table putting the final touches on your copycat masterpiece. ⏰

Kid-Friendly Tweaks

If you’re serving this to picky eaters, consider deconstructing the salad for easier customization. Let kids assemble their own bowls with the chicken, wonton strips, and edamame on one side and the spinach and dressing on the other.

You can also reduce the chili flakes in the dressing or offer a mild version on the side. For extra fun, use cookie cutters to shape the wonton strips into fun shapes like stars or triangles—kids love this interactive touch! 🌟

Frequently asked questions