A Chicken Salad Sandwich is a delightful combination of tender chicken, creamy mayonnaise, and a medley of fresh, crunchy vegetables, all nestled between slices of your favorite bread. This classic sandwich is perfect for lunch or a light dinner, offering a balance of flavors and textures that is both refreshing and satisfying. Whether you’re looking to use up leftover chicken or want a quick and easy meal solution, this recipe will guide you to a perfect Chicken Salad Sandwich every time.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, diced
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 celery stalk, finely chopped
- 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 slices of bread (whole-wheat, sourdough, or your choice)
- Lettuce leaves, as needed
- Sliced tomatoes, optional
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the diced chicken, mayonnaise, and Dijon mustard. Stir until the chicken is well coated.
- Add the finely chopped celery, red onion, and fresh parsley to the bowl. Mix thoroughly.
- Drizzle in the lemon juice and season with salt and pepper. Stir well to incorporate all the ingredients evenly.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
- Lay the slices of bread on a clean surface. You can toast the bread if you prefer a bit of crunch.
- Spread a generous amount of the chicken salad mixture onto two slices of bread.
- Place lettuce leaves on top of the chicken salad mixture. Add sliced tomatoes if desired.
- Top with the remaining slices of bread to form your sandwiches.
- Cut the sandwiches in half diagonally and serve immediately.
Servings
This recipe makes 2 servings or 2 Chicken Salad Sandwiches.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 kcal |
| Protein | 18 g |
| Carbohydrates | 30 g |
| Fat | 18 g |
| Fiber | 4 g |
| Sugar | 5 g |
| Sodium | 550 mg |
| Cholesterol | 60 mg |
| Vitamin A | 10% DV |
| Vitamin C | 15% DV |
| Calcium | 8% DV |
| Iron | 10% DV |
Tools Needed
- Mixing bowl
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Measuring spoons
- Measuring cups
- Spatula or mixing spoon
- Toaster (optional)
- Serving plate
Tips for Preparing the Recipe
- Choose Fresh Ingredients: Use high-quality, fresh ingredients for the best taste and nutritional value. Freshly cooked or rotisserie chicken provides the best texture.
- Dice Uniformly: Chop all ingredients into uniform sizes to ensure every bite contains a mix of flavors and textures.
- Combine Ingredients Gently: When mixing the salad components, fold gently to maintain the integrity of the ingredients.
- Chill Before Serving: After preparing the chicken salad, let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Toast the Bread: If you prefer a bit of crunch, lightly toast the bread before assembling the sandwich.
- Add Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs like parsley, dill, or chives can enhance the flavor of the chicken salad.
- Use Minimal Dressings: A light mayonnaise or Greek yogurt keeps the salad moist without overpowering the other flavors.
Skill Level
Intermediate
Serving and Presentation Recommendations
To create an appealing presentation, serve the chicken salad on whole-grain bread or a croissant for a touch of elegance. Cut the sandwich diagonally and arrange the halves on a plate with a side of mixed greens or a light soup. Garnish the plate with a lemon wedge and a sprig of fresh herbs for a pop of color. For a healthier option, serve the chicken salad in a lettuce wrap or on a bed of leafy greens.
Storage Conditions
Store any leftover chicken salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. Make sure the container is sealed properly to prevent the salad from absorbing other odors from the refrigerator. Bread should be stored separately to maintain its texture and prevent it from becoming soggy.
Health Benefits
A Chicken Salad Sandwich provides a balanced mix of protein, healthy fats, and carbohydrates, making it a great meal option for sustained energy. Chicken is a lean protein that helps in muscle repair and growth. The inclusion of vegetables adds fiber, antioxidants, and essential vitamins, which contribute to overall health. Whole-grain bread offers additional fiber and essential nutrients that support heart health and digestion.
Recommendations for Vegans
To make this recipe vegan-friendly, substitute the chicken with chickpeas or tofu cubes. Replace mayonnaise with vegan mayo or mashed avocado for creaminess. Ensure that the bread is vegan, meaning it contains no eggs, dairy, or honey. Add a variety of veggies like cucumbers, bell peppers, and shredded carrots to enhance the texture and nutritional profile.
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