Chicken Salad Sandwich: An Easy and Healthy Meal Option
Are you searching for a quick and easy lunch recipe that is both delicious and satisfying? Look no further! I present to you the ultimate solution – the Easy Chicken Salad Sandwich Recipe.
This classic chicken salad sandwich recipe is perfect for those who appreciate the combination of tender cooked chicken, crisp celery, sweet grapes, and crunchy red onion in a creamy mayonnaise dressing. It is a timeless dish that never goes out of style and always hits the spot.
Not only does this dish taste great, but it is also effortless to make. With just a few simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you can have a scrumptious meal ready within minutes.
So why not treat yourself to the best chicken salad sandwich recipe out there? Whether you’re packing a lunch for work or simply craving a snack, this easy chicken salad sandwich recipe will surely satisfy your appetite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Are you looking for a healthy way to jazz up your breakfast or lunch routine? Look no further than this easy chicken salad sandwich recipe. This classic chicken salad is perfect for anyone who wants a quick and delicious meal without sacrificing quality ingredients.
Let me tell you why you’ll love this recipe. First of all, it’s incredibly versatile. You can use canned, roasted or rotisserie chicken, depending on what you have on hand or what you prefer. And don’t worry about it being dry or bland – with the perfect blend of mayonnaise, dijon mustard, garlic powder, and dried cranberries or chopped grapes, the chicken remains succulent and flavorful.
Also, this recipe is perfect for meal prepping – preparing in advance makes it an ideal lunch option if you need to take something to work every day. It stores well in the refrigerator too! Save time by adding extra celery and red onions to the recipe when meal-prepping and store in a tightly sealed container.
Lastly, it goes well with many sides including sweet potato chips, shoestring fries, macaroni salad or even a refreshing glass of iced tea. Whether you want a convenient grab-and-go snack or something more substantial like dinner, this easy chicken salad sandwich recipe has got you covered.
So get ready to add some pizzazz to your meals by trying out this classic chicken salad sandwich recipes – I promise you won’t regret it!
Ingredient List
Let’s take a closer look at the ingredients you’ll need for this classic chicken salad sandwich recipe:
Chicken:
For this recipe, we will need chicken breast, preferably boneless and skinless. You can use rotisserie chicken or grill/bake the chicken breasts yourself until cooked. You will need around 2 cups of cooked chicken, chopped into small pieces.
Vegetables:
We’ll be using celery and red onion for some crunch and flavor. Chop them finely into small pieces to make sure they mix well with the rest of the ingredients. We’ll use around 1 1/2 cups of chopped celery and 1/2 cup of diced red onion.
Mayonnaise:
Mayonnaise is usually used as a base for the chicken salad. We’ll be using around 1/2 – 3/4 cup of mayonnaise as it gives a creamy texture to our salad.
Mustard:
I usually like adding dijon mustard to my chicken salad as it gives a tangy taste to the dish. We’ll need 1 teaspoon of dijon mustard, but you can substitute it with any kind of mustard that you prefer.
Seasonings:
Our chicken salad won’t be complete without adding seasonings like salt and pepper. Use kosher salt and fresh ground black pepper for best results. We will also add some garlic powder (1/4 tsp) to add more flavor.
Lettuce:
For an added crunch, we’ll add some romaine lettuce leaves that pair well with our chicken salad sandwich. Choose the freshest bunch you can find and wash them thoroughly.
With these common yet flavorful ingredients on deck, we can create a delicious and classic chicken salad sandwich that will definitely hit the spot!
The Recipe How-To
Now that we have all the necessary ingredients, let’s get cooking!
Step 1: Cooking the Chicken
First things first, let’s cook our chicken breasts. Feel free to use either boneless or bone-in, it doesn’t really matter. If using bone-in chicken, just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
To start, preheat your oven to 400°F (205°C). Season your chicken breasts with kosher salt and fresh ground black pepper on both sides. Lay them on a baking sheet and put them in the oven for about 20-25 minutes (or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F or 75°C).
Alternatively, you can use a rotisserie chicken if you want to save time; just shred it into bite-sized pieces and de-bone it.
Step 2: Making the Chicken Salad
In a large mixing bowl, add in your cooked and chopped chicken breasts, 1 finely chopped celery stalk, 1 diced red onion, and 1 cup of either halved seedless grapes or dried cranberries depending on your preference.
To create the dressing, whisk together in another bowl: ½ cup of mayonnaise, ½ cup of plain Greek yogurt, juice from 1 small lemon, plus 1 tsp of dijon mustard and 1 tsp of garlic powder.
Once created, pour your dressing into mixing bowl with your chopped ingredients. Mix well until everything is evenly coated with dressing.
Finally, add salt and pepper to taste along with some extra herbs like fresh parsley.
Step 3: Assemble Your Sandwich
Grab two fresh slices of bread and begin layering generously with cut pieces of lettuce leaves.
Scoop around one-third cup of the prepared chicken salad filling onto your bread spread over the lettuce leaves.Then slice up a tomato( optional) to put on top of chicken salad filling. Finish up by topping with another slice of bread and enjoy.
Pro tip: If you’re watching carbs or calories, skip using bread altogether and enjoy your delicious chicken salad as a low-carb wrap or as a bed over chopped lettuce!
That’s it! Now you have yourself one killer sandwich. You can easily store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
Substitutions and Variations
The beauty of this easy chicken salad sandwich recipe is that you can customize it according to your preferences. If you prefer a creamier and slightly tangy taste, substitute the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt. Not only does it give a healthy touch to the dish, but it also adds an extra creamy texture to the chicken salad.
If you’re watching your carb intake, opt for a low-carb version by replacing the bread with lettuce leaves or wrapping it in a whole wheat tortilla. This adds a crunchy texture to your sandwich while lowering the carb count.
For more variety in flavor, add dried cranberries or chopped apples for a sweet and tangy taste, or roasted pecans for added crunch. You can also experiment with adding different types of cheeses like cheddar or pepper jack for an extra layer of flavor.
If you’re a fan of egg salad or tuna salad, try substituting the chicken with canned tuna or boiled eggs for a different twist on classic sandwiches.
Finally, for those who prefer a spicy twist to their sandwich, mix some hot sauce into the chicken salad or add jalapeño peppers for some extra heat. The possibilities are endless!
Give these substitutions and variations a try and let your creativity run wild. Make this classic chicken salad sandwich recipe one that fits your taste buds’ preference!
Serving and Pairing
I dare say, there’s nothing quite like the combination of a refreshing salad sandwich paired with your favorite cold beverage to hit the spot on a lazy afternoon. So, let’s talk about serving and pairing this classic chicken salad sandwich recipe.
First things first, you need to select the perfect bread for your sandwich. And by perfect, I mean something that will complement and not overpower the flavors of the chicken salad. Generally speaking, lighter bread options like sourdough or ciabatta work best. But hey, if you’re feeling adventurous or want an extra crunch, you could always go for a crusty baguette or even a croissant.
Once you’ve got your bread sorted out, it’s time to build your sandwich. Layer some crisp lettuce and thinly sliced celery onto your bread before adding a generous helping of the chicken salad mixture. A sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper on top adds the perfect finishing touch.
Now for the exciting part – pairing! If you’re looking for a refreshing and sweet counterpart, consider serving with some juicy watermelon or freshly sliced peaches. For something a little bit more savory, crispy sweet potato fries or kettle chips make great choices.
And if you’re feeling fancy, why not pair your chicken salad sandwich with a chilled glass of Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc? Beer lovers can opt for a light ale or pilsner.
In short, when it comes to serving and pairing this easy chicken salad sandwich recipe, it really comes down to personal preference. Let your taste buds be your guide and don’t be afraid to experiment with different flavors and textures until you find your perfect match!
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
Ah, the eternal questions of the kitchen: can I make it ahead of time? How long can I store it? And how the hell do I reheat it without messing up the flavors?
Well, fear not—your culinary North Star is here to guide you through these murky waters. When it comes to chicken salad, you can absolutely make it ahead of time. In fact, I highly recommend making a big batch and storing it in your fridge for quick sandwiches throughout the week.
To make-ahead: simply combine all the ingredients in a large mixing bowl (except for the lettuce and bread, of course), cover tightly with plastic wrap or a lid, and chill in the fridge for up to three days.
Storing chicken salad is also relatively easy. Just transfer it to an airtight container and keep in the fridge for up to 4-5 days. If you’re planning on storing it longer than that, I’d recommend freezing it. Scoop your chicken salad into freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 3 months.
Now comes the age-old question: how do you reheat chicken salad without turning it into a soggy mess? The answer is simple: you don’t! Since chicken salad is typically served cold, there’s no need to reheat it. Just scoop some onto a fresh bed of romaine lettuce or between two slices of bread and enjoy!
One final tip: if you’re packing your chicken salad sandwich for work or school lunches, I highly suggest keeping your bread separate until ready to eat. This will help prevent your bread from getting soggy and ruining your sandwich experience.
Now go ahead – be brave enough to make this delicious recipe ahead of time and don’t forget my tips on storage and reheating to get perfect results every time.
Tips for Perfect Results
If you want your chicken salad sandwich to be the best it can be, you’ll need to pay attention to a few key points. Here are some tips to make sure your next chicken salad sandwich is nothing short of scrumptious.
First, use fresh ingredients as much as possible. Using quality ingredients like fresh celery and romaine lettuce should be top priority when making this classic chicken salad recipe. You want everything to taste fresh and crisp.
Next, make sure the chicken is moist and flavorful. If you are not using a pre-made rotisserie chicken, try poaching or grilling it yourself. To create a more savory flavor, try marinating the chicken in advance with some simple spices like salt, pepper, and paprika before cooking.
Another tip is not to overdo the mayonnaise. It’s tempting to overuse mayo thinking it will make the chicken salad creamier but too much of it will overpower the other flavors of the sandwich. A good rule of thumb is to start with a smaller amount and add more gradually until you reach your desired consistency.
Additionally, don’t be afraid to add some crunch into your sandwich. Celery is always welcome but also try adding nuts like almonds or walnuts for extra texture. Dried cranberries or raisins can also provide an extra burst of sweetness that balances out the savory ingredients.
Lastly, take advantage of any leftovers by making a “chicken melt” sandwich for another meal. To do this, use buttered bread and place a slice of cheese (cheddar or Swiss work well) on top of the chicken salad then grill in a panini press or on a griddle until golden brown and melty.
By following these tips, you’re sure to have an easy chicken salad sandwich that will impress anyone who tries it!
FAQ
As you put your culinary skills to the test with our easy chicken salad sandwich recipe, you might have some questions about the ingredients or directions. Don’t worry; we’ve got you covered. In this section, we answer some of the most frequently asked questions to ensure that you’ll nail this classic chicken salad sandwich recipe every time. So let’s dive in!
What is chicken salad sandwich made of?
Looking for a delicious and hassle-free chicken salad recipe that is perfect for sandwiches? Look no further! In this recipe, we’ll show you how to make a creamy and tangy chicken salad with shredded chicken, celery, and grapes. Plus, we’ll answer the question on everyone’s minds: can you freeze chicken salad? So keep reading to find out!
What is a chicken salad sandwich?
The term “chicken salad” is commonly used in Canada and the United States to describe salads that include chicken as an ingredient, or a particular mixed salad that features chopped chicken as the main component, combined with a binding agent such as cream cheese, mayonnaise or salad dressing.
What goes well with chicken salad?
In this recipe article, we’ll explore some tasty and healthy dishes that are sure to satisfy your appetite. First, we’ll show you how to create a fresh and vibrant green salad that’s perfect for any meal. Next up, we’ll demonstrate how to make a comforting and creamy butternut squash soup that will warm you up on a chilly night. Then, we’ll teach you how to prepare a refreshing and colorful fruit salad that’s great for a light snack or dessert. If you’re in the mood for something salty and crispy, we’ll also provide instructions on how to make sweet potato chips and carrot fries. For a unique and flavorful twist on a classic veggie, we’ll show you how to roast radishes to perfection. And finally, we’ll share our recipe for healthy and delicious cauliflower “tots” and kale slaw. Let’s get started!
What can I add to chicken salad to give it more flavor?
For this recipe, we will need a variety of herbs that have been chopped up nicely. Specifically, we will need cilantro, parsley, dill, tarragon, basil, and chives. Additionally, we can add some fresh or pickled jalapeño to give our dish some extra kick. If we want even more flavor, we can also include up to 1 tablespoon of horseradish.
Bottom Line
And there you have it, folks! An easy and delicious chicken salad sandwich recipe that will leave your taste buds wanting more. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch break or a satisfying dinner option, this classic chicken salad recipe is perfect every time.
With simple ingredients like chicken breasts, celery, mayonnaise, and red onion, you can make an impressive salad that everyone will love. And, with endless variations and substitutions available, you can customize the recipe to your liking and preferences.
So, why not try this chicken salad sandwich recipe today? With its unbeatable flavor and ease of making, it’s bound to become a staple in your kitchen. Trust me; once you take a bite of it, you’ll never look back.
In the end, the best chicken salad is the one that meets your needs and satisfies your cravings. So get creative with your ingredients or stick to the classic version – either way, this sandwich recipe will leave you feeling satisfied and full.
Easy Chicken Salad Sandwich Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 (9 3/4 ounce) can of white chunk chicken breasts, in water
- 3 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 2 stalks celery, chopped
- 1/2 medium vidalia onion, chopped finely
- nice crusty bread
- 4 leaves romaine lettuce, for each sandwich
i eyeball the rest
- celery salt
- kosher salt
- fresh ground black pepper
Instructions
- Drain chicken very well and empty into mixing bowl.
- Add remaining ingredients and mix well with a fork shredding chicken as you do so.
- Place in fridge to chill and let flavors disperse, think 30-60 minutes. Spread on your favorite bread with some romaine lettuce and enjoy!
Your own notes
Nutrition
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Tony is an experienced chef, crafting delicious comfort food. He’s also an influential blogger, providing helpful recipes and tips on his website, taosburgersandbeer.com. As an expert in his field, he offers valuable advice to readers. His knowledge and creative recipes make it easy to cook exciting, flavorful dishes.