Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in just 10 minutes, making it perfect for busy days.

• Customizable: Add-ins like grapes, nuts, or herbs allow you to tailor the flavor to your liking.

• Versatile: Enjoy it on various breads, croissants, or even lettuce wraps.

• Crowd-Pleaser: A dish that appeals to a wide range of tastes and preferences.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or diced)

• ½ cup mayonnaise

• ¼ cup plain Greek yogurt (optional for added creaminess)

• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• ½ cup celery, finely chopped

• ¼ cup red onion, finely chopped (optional)

• ½ cup grapes, halved (optional)

• ¼ cup nuts (pecans, walnuts, or almonds), chopped (optional)

• Bread slices, croissants, or lettuce leaves for serving

directions

1. Prepare the Chicken: If not using pre-cooked chicken, cook and shred or dice the chicken breasts.

2. Make the Dressing: In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until smooth.

3. Combine Ingredients: Add the chicken, celery, red onion, grapes, and nuts to the dressing. Stir gently to combine, ensuring all ingredients are evenly coated.

4. Chill: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

5. Assemble Sandwiches: Serve the chicken salad on slices of bread, croissants, or in lettuce wraps. Add additional toppings like lettuce or tomato if desired.

Servings and timing

• Servings: Approximately 4–6

• Prep time: 10 minutes

• Chill time: 30 minutes

• Total time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of sriracha or chopped jalapeños for heat.

• Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like dill, parsley, or tarragon for added flavor.

• Sweet and Savory: Mix in dried cranberries or chopped apples for a sweet contrast.

• Low-Carb Option: Serve the chicken salad in lettuce wraps instead of bread.

storage/reheating

• Refrigeration: Store any leftover chicken salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Freezing: Not recommended, as the mayonnaise-based dressing may separate upon thawing.

• Reheating: This dish is best enjoyed cold; however, if preferred warm, gently heat the chicken salad in a pan over low heat, stirring occasionally.

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Yes, rotisserie chicken is a convenient and flavorful option for this recipe.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

The chicken salad itself is gluten-free; however, ensure the bread or wraps used are gluten-free if needed.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely! Preparing the chicken salad a day in advance allows the flavors to develop and meld together.

Can I substitute the mayonnaise?

Yes, you can use Greek yogurt, sour cream, or a dairy-free alternative as a substitute for mayonnaise.

How can I add more crunch?

Incorporate additional crunchy vegetables like bell peppers or add more nuts to the mixture.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes, it’s perfect for meal prep. Store the chicken salad in individual containers for easy grab-and-go lunches.

Can I add cheese to this sandwich?

While not traditional, adding a slice of cheese like Swiss or cheddar can enhance the flavor.

How do I prevent the bread from getting soggy?

To prevent sogginess, toast the bread lightly or serve the chicken salad in a lettuce wrap.

Can I use canned chicken?

Yes, canned chicken can be used; just ensure it’s well-drained and shredded before mixing.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Yes, the mild flavors and customizable ingredients make it appealing to children.

Conclusion

The Chicken Salad Sandwich is a versatile and satisfying dish that can be tailored to suit various tastes and dietary preferences. Whether enjoyed as a quick lunch or a picnic treat, its combination of flavors and textures makes it a timeless favorit