Chicken salad sandwiches are a classic, versatile dish that can be enjoyed any time of the day. Whether you’re packing a lunch for work, preparing a picnic, or just looking for a quick and delicious meal at home, these five chicken salad sandwich recipes are sure to please. Each recipe brings its unique twist, offering a variety of flavors and textures.
1. Classic Chicken Salad Sandwich
The Classic Charm
The classic chicken salad sandwich is simple, creamy, and delicious. It’s made with tender chicken, crunchy celery, and a creamy mayonnaise dressing.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, diced
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup celery, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 slices of bread (whole wheat, white, or your preference)
- Lettuce leaves
Directions:
- Prepare the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the diced chicken, mayonnaise, celery, red onion, Dijon mustard, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Assemble the Sandwich: Spread the chicken salad onto four slices of bread. Top with lettuce leaves and place the remaining slices of bread on top.
FAQ:
- Can I use rotisserie chicken? Yes, rotisserie chicken works perfectly for this recipe.
- How do I store leftovers? Store the chicken salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
- Can I use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise? Yes, Greek yogurt is a healthier alternative and adds a tangy flavor.
- What type of bread is best? Whole wheat, sourdough, or any sturdy bread works well. Toasting the bread adds extra texture.
- Can I add other ingredients? Yes, you can add ingredients like grapes, nuts, or apples for extra flavor and texture.
2. Avocado Chicken Salad Sandwich
Creamy and Nutritious
Adding avocado to your chicken salad not only makes it creamy but also adds healthy fats and a delicious flavor.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, diced
- 1 ripe avocado, mashed
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 slices of bread
- Lettuce leaves
Directions:
- Prepare the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the diced chicken, mashed avocado, mayonnaise, red onion, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Assemble the Sandwich: Spread the avocado chicken salad onto four slices of bread. Top with lettuce leaves and place the remaining slices of bread on top.
FAQ:
- Can I skip the mayonnaise? Yes, you can use only avocado for a healthier option.
- How do I keep the avocado from browning? The lime juice helps prevent browning, but you can also store the salad in an airtight container with plastic wrap pressed directly on the surface.
- Can I use other citrus juices? Yes, lemon juice works well too.
- What type of bread is best? Whole grain or rye bread pairs nicely with the avocado flavor.
- Can I add other ingredients? Yes, you can add ingredients like tomatoes, cucumbers, or jalapeños for extra flavor.
3. Curried Chicken Salad Sandwich
A Flavorful Twist
Curried chicken salad adds a unique and flavorful twist to the traditional chicken salad. The curry powder brings a warm and spicy flavor that’s perfectly balanced by sweet raisins and crunchy almonds.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, diced
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon curry powder
- 1/4 cup raisins
- 1/4 cup almonds, sliced
- 1/4 cup celery, finely chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 slices of bread
- Lettuce leaves
Directions:
- Prepare the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the diced chicken, mayonnaise, curry powder, raisins, almonds, celery, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Assemble the Sandwich: Spread the curried chicken salad onto four slices of bread. Top with lettuce leaves and place the remaining slices of bread on top.
FAQ:
- Can I use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise? Yes, Greek yogurt works well and adds a tangy flavor.
- Can I skip the raisins? Yes, you can omit the raisins or substitute with dried cranberries.
- What type of bread is best? Whole wheat or naan bread pairs nicely with the curry flavor.
- Can I make this salad ahead of time? Yes, store in the refrigerator for up to three days.
- Can I add other ingredients? Yes, you can add ingredients like chopped apples, grapes, or shredded carrots for extra flavor and texture.
4. Pesto Chicken Salad Sandwich
Fresh and Herby
Pesto chicken salad is a fresh and herby take on the classic chicken salad. The pesto adds a burst of flavor and a beautiful green color.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, diced
- 1/4 cup pesto
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 slices of bread
- Lettuce leaves
Directions:
- Prepare the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the diced chicken, pesto, mayonnaise, red onion, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Assemble the Sandwich: Spread the pesto chicken salad onto four slices of bread. Top with lettuce leaves and place the remaining slices of bread on top.
FAQ:
- Can I use homemade pesto? Yes, homemade pesto will add a fresher flavor.
- Can I skip the mayonnaise? Yes, you can use only pesto for a healthier option.
- What type of bread is best? Ciabatta or focaccia pairs nicely with the pesto flavor.
- Can I make this salad ahead of time? Yes, store in the refrigerator for up to three days.
- Can I add other ingredients? Yes, you can add ingredients like sun-dried tomatoes, mozzarella, or pine nuts for extra flavor.
5. Buffalo Chicken Salad Sandwich
Spicy and Tangy
Buffalo chicken salad adds a spicy and tangy twist to the traditional chicken salad. It’s perfect for those who love a bit of heat.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, diced
- 1/4 cup buffalo sauce
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup celery, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup green onions, finely chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 slices of bread
- Lettuce leaves
Directions:
- Prepare the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the diced chicken, buffalo sauce, mayonnaise, celery, green onions, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Assemble the Sandwich: Spread the buffalo chicken salad onto four slices of bread. Top with lettuce leaves and place the remaining slices of bread on top.
FAQ:
- Can I use ranch or blue cheese dressing instead of mayonnaise? Yes, both work well and add extra flavor.
- Can I control the heat level? Yes, adjust the amount of buffalo sauce to suit your taste.
- What type of bread is best? A sturdy bread like ciabatta or a sub roll pairs nicely with the spicy flavor.
- Can I add other ingredients? Yes, you can add ingredients like shredded carrots, blue cheese crumbles, or pickles for extra flavor.
- How do I store leftovers? Store the chicken salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
If you enjoyed these chicken salad sandwich recipes, please share them with your friends and family. Don’t forget to subscribe to our blog for more delicious recipes, cooking tips, and culinary inspiration. Happy cooking!
