Looking for a quick, satisfying meal that everyone will love? A chicken salad sandwich might just be the answer. It’s simple, customizable, and can be enjoyed any time of day—whether for lunch, dinner, or even as a picnic treat.
Whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding a crowd, this recipe has everything you need to make the perfect chicken salad sandwich.
Chicken Salad Sandwich Recipe
A chicken salad sandwich is a comforting and hearty meal made by combining shredded or chopped chicken with a creamy, flavorful dressing. The chicken is typically mixed with ingredients like mayonnaise, mustard, and a variety of veggies, then served on bread, rolls, or even lettuce wraps.
It’s a versatile recipe, allowing you to switch up the ingredients based on personal preferences, dietary needs, or what’s in your fridge!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: If you’re short on time, this recipe takes about 20 minutes from start to finish.
- Customizable: Add or remove ingredients to suit your taste—add apples, grapes, nuts, or even curry powder to change things up.
- Affordable: You don’t need fancy ingredients to make this dish. Use what you have on hand!
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Chicken salad sandwiches are great for making in advance and enjoying throughout the week.
Ingredients for the Perfect Chicken Salad Sandwich
Let’s talk about what you’ll need to get started. This is a basic recipe, but feel free to mix and match based on your preferences.
Protein:
- Cooked Chicken: The star of the show! You can use leftover rotisserie chicken, grilled chicken breasts, or even canned chicken if you’re in a pinch.
Base for the Salad:
- Mayonnaise: This is the creamy base that holds everything together. You can substitute with Greek yogurt or avocado for a lighter version.
- Mustard: Adds a tangy kick. Dijon or yellow mustard both work well.
- Lemon Juice: A little acidity brightens up the flavor.
- Seasoning: Salt, pepper, and maybe some garlic powder or onion powder for depth.
Veggies:
- Celery: Adds a satisfying crunch. Dice it finely so it blends well into the salad.
- Onion: Red onions bring a mild flavor that complements the chicken. You can also use green onions for a milder taste.
- Pickles: Optional, but they add a nice tangy flavor and crunch.
Extras (optional):
- Grapes or Apples: For a sweet, refreshing twist.
- Nuts: Chopped walnuts or pecans can add a bit of crunch and flavor.
- Herbs: Fresh parsley or dill can elevate the dish.
Bread:
- Sandwich Bread: Any kind of bread works—white, whole wheat, sourdough, or even a roll. For a low-carb option, serve the chicken salad in lettuce wraps.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Ready to make your chicken salad sandwich? Here’s how to do it!
1. Prepare the Chicken
Start by cooking your chicken if you’re not using leftovers. If you’re using chicken breasts, season them lightly with salt, pepper, and a little olive oil, then cook on medium heat for about 7-8 minutes per side until fully cooked. Once cooled, chop or shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. If you’re using leftover chicken or canned chicken, just give it a rough chop.
2. Mix the Dressing
In a large bowl, combine 1/2 cup of mayonnaise with 1-2 teaspoons of mustard (depending on your preference). Add a squeeze of lemon juice, a pinch of salt, and a couple of cracks of black pepper. Stir everything together until smooth.
3. Add the Veggies and Extras
Add in your diced celery, onions, and pickles. If you’re using grapes, apples, or nuts, toss those in now as well. Mix everything together until it’s well combined.
4. Combine the Chicken and Dressing
Fold the shredded chicken into the dressing mixture until everything is evenly coated. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. You can always add a little more mayo or mustard if you want it creamier or tangier.
5. Assemble the Sandwich
Now for the fun part—building your sandwich! Spread the chicken salad generously onto one slice of bread. Top with another slice to complete your sandwich. You can also toast your bread lightly if you prefer a little crunch.
6. Serve and Enjoy!
Serve your chicken salad sandwich immediately, or wrap it up for lunch later. You can even serve it with some chips, pickles, or a fresh salad on the side.
Variations and Tips for the Best Chicken Salad Sandwich
Add Some Spice
If you like a little heat, try adding some finely chopped jalapeños, a dash of hot sauce, or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the chicken salad.
Go Low-Carb
Instead of traditional bread, serve your chicken salad on a bed of leafy greens like romaine or spinach. You can also use lettuce wraps to cut out the carbs.
Make It a Chicken Salad Croissant
For a fancier option, serve your chicken salad on a buttery croissant. It’s a great option for brunch or a more elegant lunch.
Make It Ahead of Time
This recipe is great for meal prep! Store the chicken salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Assemble the sandwiches the night before for a quick grab-and-go lunch.
Chicken Salad Sandwiches for Any Occasion
Chicken salad sandwiches are so versatile. Here are a few ways you can serve them:
Picnic Time
Chicken salad sandwiches are perfect for a picnic. Pack them with some fresh fruit, chips, and maybe a refreshing drink to enjoy on a sunny day.
Lunch Box
These sandwiches are a hit with kids and adults alike. If you’re packing lunch for school or work, a chicken salad sandwich is a filling and easy choice.
Potluck or Party
For gatherings, consider making mini chicken salad sandwiches on slider buns. They’re bite-sized, easy to eat, and perfect for sharing.
Common Questions
Can I Use Leftover Chicken?
Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken or any cooked chicken works perfectly in this recipe.
How Do I Make It Healthier?
You can swap out mayonnaise for Greek yogurt or use avocado for a creamy base. You can also use whole grain bread or opt for lettuce wraps instead of traditional bread.
Can I Freeze Chicken Salad?
It’s best to eat chicken salad fresh, but you can freeze the chicken mixture (before adding the mayo and veggies) for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to serve, just thaw and mix in the dressing.
Can I Add Fruit to Chicken Salad?
Yes, fruits like grapes or apples add a sweet contrast that works really well with the savory chicken. Just chop them into small pieces.
What Type of Bread Should I Use?
Any kind of bread works, but whole wheat or sourdough can add extra flavor. If you’re looking for something gluten-free, there are plenty of gluten-free bread options available.
Chicken salad sandwiches are simple, delicious, and always a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re in a rush or have a bit more time to get creative, this recipe offers endless ways to personalize it to suit your tastes. Toss in some extras, make it healthier, or serve it with your favorite sides—the possibilities are endless!
So next time you’re in the mood for something satisfying, grab some chicken and start making your new go-to sandwich.