The Ultimate Hunt for Applebee’s Oriental Chicken Salad Dressing: Where to Buy It & How to Make It

Hey there, fellow food enthusiasts! Today I’m diving into a question that’s been floating around the internet for ages where can I buy Applebee’s Oriental Chicken Salad Dressing? If you’re anything like me, you’ve probably found yourself craving that sweet, tangy, and slightly spicy flavor that makes Applebee’s Oriental Chicken Salad so darn irresistible

I’ve spent way too many hours searching for this elusive dressing, and I’m excited to share everything I’ve discovered. Whether you’re looking to purchase the real deal or whip up a copycat version in your kitchen, I’ve got you covered!

The Truth About Buying Applebee’s Oriental Chicken Salad Dressing

Let’s cut to the chase – can you actually buy the exact Applebee’s Oriental Chicken Salad Dressing? Well, the answer is… complicated.

The Official Word

According to my research, Applebee’s doesn’t officially sell their Oriental Chicken Salad Dressing in retail stores. The restaurant chain keeps their commercial recipe a closely guarded secret, which is why you won’t find bottles labeled “Applebee’s Oriental Chicken Salad Dressing” sitting on grocery store shelves.

Direct from the Source?

However there’s a glimmer of hope! According to one source, you can purchase the dressing directly at Applebee’s restaurants for about $3.50 for 16 ounces. This seems to vary by location though, as other sources suggest this is rare and depends entirely on individual restaurant management and policies.

If you’re determined to try this route, I’d recommend:

• Calling your local Applebee’s to inquire about dressing availability
• Being super nice when asking (always helps!)
• Visiting during non-peak hours if you plan to ask in person

The Online Marketplace Gamble

Some folks claim they’ve spotted the dressing on online marketplaces like eBay or Craigslist. But I gotta warn ya – proceed with extreme caution if you go this route. There’s no guarantee of authenticity, and food safety becomes a serious concern with unverified sellers.

Taste-Alike Alternatives: Commercial Options

If you can’t get your hands on the real thing the next best option is finding a commercial dressing that captures a similar flavor profile.

Look for Asian-style vinaigrettes or Oriental dressings that feature these key ingredients:

• Soy sauce (preferably low-sodium)
• Rice vinegar
• Sesame oil
• Ginger
• Garlic
• Honey or sugar

Some commercial brands to try:

• Kraft Asian Toasted Sesame Dressing
• Marzetti Asian Sesame Dressing
• Ken’s Steakhouse Asian Sesame Dressing

Through a bit of trial and error, you might find one that satisfies your Applebee’s craving. The key is looking for that perfect balance of sweet, savory, and slightly tangy flavors.

DIY Magic: Making Your Own Copycat Version

After tons of research and experimentation, I’m convinced that the BEST way to enjoy Applebee’s Oriental Chicken Salad Dressing at home is to make it yourself! Not only is it fresher, but you can tweak it to perfection.

My Go-To Copycat Recipe

Here’s a copycat recipe that comes remarkably close to the original:

Ingredients:

• 3 tablespoons honey
• 1½ tablespoons rice vinegar
• ¼ cup mayonnaise
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• ⅛ teaspoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon low-sodium soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, finely grated
• 1 small clove garlic, minced

Instructions:

1. Whisk all ingredients together in a bowl until smooth and well-combined.
2. For best results, refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before using to allow flavors to meld.
3. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.

Pro Tips for Nailing the Flavor

From my own kitchen experiments, I’ve learned a few tricks:

• Use fresh ginger and garlic – The pre-minced stuff in jars just doesn’t have the same punch
• Emulsify properly – Whisk vigorously or use an immersion blender for that smooth restaurant texture
• Taste and adjust – Don’t be afraid to tweak the sweetness or tang to your preference
• Let it rest – The flavors truly develop after sitting in the fridge for a bit

Beyond the Salad: Creative Uses for Your Dressing

Once you’ve mastered making (or finding) the perfect Oriental dressing, don’t limit yourself to just salads! This versatile sauce works amazingly well as:

• A marinade for chicken, tofu, or fish
• A dipping sauce for spring rolls or potstickers
• A stir-fry sauce (just add a little cornstarch to thicken)
• A drizzle for rice bowls
• A sandwich spread

FAQs About Applebee’s Oriental Chicken Salad Dressing

Why is Applebee’s Oriental Chicken Salad so high in calories?

The high calorie count is mainly due to the fried chicken, sweet dressing, and crunchy toppings like fried noodles and almonds. These components contribute a significant amount of fat and sugar, making it a calorie-dense meal despite being a “salad.”

How long does homemade Oriental Chicken Salad Dressing last?

Homemade dressing typically stays fresh for up to one week when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Can I freeze homemade Oriental Chicken Salad Dressing?

Freezing isn’t recommended as the texture may change upon thawing. The ingredients can separate, making re-emulsification difficult.

What are the main ingredients in Applebee’s Oriental Chicken Salad Dressing?

While the exact recipe is proprietary, the dressing likely includes soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, ginger, garlic, honey or sugar, and potentially some other spices and seasonings.

What type of soy sauce works best in homemade versions?

Low-sodium soy sauce is generally recommended to avoid the dressing becoming overly salty. You can always add a pinch of salt later if needed.

My Personal Quest for the Perfect Dressing

I’ve been obsessed with Applebee’s Oriental Chicken Salad since college (maybe too many late-night study break dinners!). When I moved to a town without an Applebee’s nearby, I became determined to recreate that magical dressing.

My first attempts were… well, let’s just say less than stellar. Too sweet, too vinegary, not enough depth. But after tweaking and experimenting, I finally landed on a version that makes my taste buds sing the same happy song they did at Applebee’s.

The best part? My homemade version actually tastes fresher than what I remember from the restaurant. Plus, I can control the ingredients, avoiding preservatives and weird additives.

When All Else Fails: The Full Applebee’s Experience

If you’re craving the complete experience, don’t forget the other components that make Applebee’s Oriental Chicken Salad so crave-worthy:

• Crispy chicken tenders – You can use frozen ones or make your own with panko breadcrumbs
• Fresh Asian greens – A mix of romaine, cabbage, and cilantro works well
• Crunchy toppings – Sliced almonds and crispy chow mein noodles
• Colorful veggies – Carrots, red bell peppers, and green onions

Combine all these elements with your homemade or store-bought dressing, and you’ll have a restaurant-quality meal right in your own kitchen!

The Bottom Line

While buying the exact Applebee’s Oriental Chicken Salad Dressing remains somewhat elusive, with the right ingredients and a little kitchen creativity, you can absolutely satisfy your craving. Whether you luck out and find it at your local Applebee’s for purchase, discover a similar commercial alternative, or master your own homemade version, that distinctive sweet-tangy flavor can be yours to enjoy anytime.

Have you tried making your own version of this iconic dressing? Or have you found a store-bought alternative that hits the spot? I’d love to hear about your experiences in the comments below!

Until next time, happy cooking and happy eating!

P.S. If anyone from Applebee’s is reading this… please consider bottling and selling your Oriental Chicken Salad Dressing nationwide. You’d make a lot of salad enthusiasts very happy!