When you think of a perfect summer picnic or a light lunch that still hits the spot, the chicken salad sandwich immediately comes to mind.
This classic dish isn’t just about chicken and mayo; it’s a canvas for your creativity and taste buds! With endless variations, from spicy to creamy, this is the ultimate chicken salad sandwich recipe that you’ll crave all season.
Whether you want a quick meal prep idea or something to impress at the next gathering, there’s a healthy chicken salad variation for everyone. Prepare to be inspired by flavors and fresh ingredients that turn a simple sandwich into a delightful bite-sized experience.
Let’s explore some scrumptious variations to elevate your next meal!
1. Classic Creamy Chicken Salad Sandwich
Nothing beats the classic! This simple yet delightful chicken salad sandwich relies on tender chicken, a creamy dressing, and crisp veggies.
The combination of mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, and a splash of lemon juice creates a creamy dressing that perfectly coats shredded chicken. Toss it in with diced celery and green onions for that extra crunch. To make your meal prep a breeze, consider using meal prep containers to store your chicken salad and keep ingredients fresh. Served on fresh whole grain bread, this sandwich is comfort food at its best. Perfect for meal prep or a leisurely lunch!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 cup diced celery
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Whole grain bread or your choice of sandwich bread
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, combine the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, and lemon juice.
2. Add in the shredded chicken, celery, green onions, salt, and pepper.
3. Mix everything until well combined.
4. To make slicing easier and more precise, use a high-quality chef’s knife for your bread and veggies.
5. Spread the chicken salad generously on your bread of choice.
6. Top with another slice of bread and enjoy!
Tips:
– Let the chicken salad chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes for the flavors to meld.
– Add some grapes or apples for a sweet twist!
2. Avocado Chicken Salad Sandwich
Boost the nutrition of your chicken salad with creamy avocado! This version replaces mayonnaise with ripe, smashed avocado, giving it a rich texture along with a burst of healthy fats. To prepare this delicious avocado chicken salad, you’ll want to combine diced chicken with ripe avocado, lime juice, and a sprinkle of cilantro for a fresh and zesty twist. For added crunch, you can include diced cucumbers or radishes, ensuring delightful texture in every bite. This sandwich is not only delicious but also a fantastic source of healthy nutrients!
For an easy way to slice and pit your avocados, consider using the OXO Good Grips 3-in-1 Avocado Slicer. This handy tool simplifies the process, making your meal prep smoother and more efficient.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
– 1 ripe avocado, mashed
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1/2 cup diced cucumber or radishes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Whole Grain Bread or gluten-free bread
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix the mashed avocado and lime juice.
2. Fold in the shredded chicken, cilantro, cucumber, salt, and pepper until combined.
3. Spread the mixture generously onto your preferred bread.
4. Serve with extra avocado slices or lettuce for a refreshing crunch!
Hints:
– Use leftover roast chicken for added flavor.
– This chicken salad works beautifully in lettuce wraps too!
3. Curried Chicken Salad Sandwich
For those who love a bit of spice, a curried chicken salad sandwich is a must-try! This variation adds a unique twist with curry powder, giving it a warm, aromatic flavor that’s simply irresistible.
Mix cooked chicken with a blend of mayonnaise and curry powder, along with chopped apples and slivered almonds. The sweetness of the apples, complemented by the crunch of slivered almonds, creates an exciting flavor contrast. Served on naan or pita bread, this sandwich feels like a gourmet treat!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons curry powder
– 1/2 cup diced apples
– 1/4 cup slivered almonds
– Salt to taste
– Naan or pita bread
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix together the mayonnaise and curry powder.
2. Add the shredded chicken, apples, and almonds; stir well to combine.
3. Season with salt as needed.
4. Serve in pita or naan bread for a unique flavor experience.
Pro Tip:
– For an extra kick, add some diced jalapeños or cayenne pepper!
Spice up your lunch with a curried chicken salad sandwich! The perfect blend of savory curry, crunchy almonds, and sweet apples will make your taste buds dance. Who knew healthy could taste this gourmet?
4. Mediterranean Chicken Salad Sandwich
If you’re craving something fresh and tangy, the Mediterranean chicken salad sandwich is a delightful option. Imagine the flavors of olives, feta cheese, and sun-dried tomatoes coming together!
Combining shredded chicken with a light dressing of olive oil, lemon juice, and a sprinkle of oregano creates a zesty base. The use of feta cheese adds a creamy, salty punch that perfectly complements the other ingredients. Add in chopped cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and some of those delicious feta crumbles for that Mediterranean flair. This sandwich is not only vibrant in flavors but also packed with nutrients!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon oregano
– 1/2 cup chopped cucumbers
– 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
– 1/4 cup sliced olives
– 1/4 cup feta cheese
– Whole grain bread or lavash
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, and oregano.
2. Add in the shredded chicken, cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and feta, and mix well.
3. Serve on your favorite bread, garnished with extra olives or feta as desired.
Note:
– This sandwich pairs beautifully with a side of hummus or tzatziki!
5. Spicy Sriracha Chicken Salad Sandwich
If you like it hot, this spicy Sriracha chicken salad sandwich will ignite your taste buds! The creamy dressing gets a major kick from Sriracha, making this a sandwich for those who crave heat.
Mix cooked chicken with a generous dollop of Sriracha sauce, mayonnaise, and a touch of lime juice. Adding chopped red bell peppers and jalapeños gives it an extra crunch and flavor burst. Perfectly delicious on a toasted baguette, this sandwich is a crowd-pleaser!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons Sriracha
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1/2 cup chopped red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup diced jalapeños
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Baguette or sandwich rolls
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix together mayonnaise, Sriracha, and lime juice.
2. Fold in the shredded chicken, red bell pepper, jalapeños, salt, and pepper until combined.
3. Serve in a toasted baguette for added texture.
Extra Tip:
– Add some sliced avocado for creaminess and to balance the heat!
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6. Chicken Salad with Nuts and Dried Fruits
For a sweet and crunchy twist, try adding nuts and dried fruits to your chicken salad! The combination of flavors and textures transforms a basic sandwich into something exceptional.
Mix shredded chicken with a creamy dressing made of Greek yogurt and honey, then add mixed nuts such as walnuts, pecans, or almonds along with dried cranberries or apricots. This sandwich is not just about taste; it adds a delightful crunch that keeps each bite interesting. Perfect for a light lunch or a picnic delight!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
– 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1/2 cup chopped nuts (walnuts, pecans, or almonds)
– 1/2 cup dried cranberries or apricots
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Whole grain or sandwich bread
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, combine Greek yogurt and honey to make the dressing.
2. Add in the shredded chicken, nuts, dried fruits, salt, and pepper, mixing until well combined.
3. Serve on your choice of bread for a sweet and crunchy sandwich experience.
Culinary Tip:
– This works wonderfully in wraps for a portable summer lunch!
Elevate your chicken salad sandwich recipe by adding a crunchy twist! A handful of nuts and dried fruits can turn an ordinary lunch into a delightful experience full of flavor and texture.
7. Pesto Chicken Salad Sandwich
Elevate your lunch with a burst of flavor from a pesto chicken salad sandwich! This variation incorporates vibrant basil pesto, specifically Basil Pesto Sauce, giving it an aromatic touch that pairs beautifully with chicken.
Combine shredded chicken with your favorite pesto, add in diced tomatoes and fresh mozzarella for a hearty bite. The creamy texture of the mozzarella complements the vibrant flavors of the pesto and tomatoes perfectly. This sandwich isn’t just tasty; it’s a feast for the eyes too! Served on ciabatta bread or focaccia, it’s perfect for a special brunch or picnic gathering.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
– 1/2 cup pesto
– 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
– 1/4 cup fresh mozzarella, shredded
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Ciabatta or focaccia bread
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix the shredded chicken with pesto until well coated.
2. Fold in the tomatoes, mozzarella, salt, and pepper.
3. Serve on ciabatta or focaccia, toasting if desired for extra crunch.
Fun Fact:
– Add a layer of arugula for peppery flavor and added greens!
Elevate your lunch game with a pesto chicken salad sandwich! Bursting with flavor and color, it’s not just a meal, it’s a delightful experience that makes every bite an occasion.
8. Chicken Salad Wraps
## 8. Chicken Salad Wraps
Want a lighter option? Chicken salad wraps are the way to go! This variation uses lettuce leaves or whole grain tortillas, making it a perfect fit for a healthy meal.
Simply prepare your chicken salad as you normally would, then wrap it in large lettuce leaves or a soft tortilla. For a delightful crunch and added flavor, consider using an OXO Good Grips 3-in-1 avocado slicer to easily slice avocado and incorporate it into your wrap. The different textures and flavors create a fresh and portable meal, ideal for on-the-go lunches or picnics without the bread heaviness!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
– 1/2 cup Greek yogurt or mayonnaise
– Your favorite mix-ins (celery, grapes, nuts, etc.)
– Large lettuce leaves or whole grain tortillas
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, combine chicken with dressing and desired mix-ins.
2. Scoop the mixture onto lettuce leaves or tortillas and wrap tightly.
3. Secure with toothpicks if needed and enjoy!
Quick Tip:
– Add avocado slices or sliced bell peppers for an extra crunch and flavor! To keep your lettuce fresh for longer, consider using a Regency Wraps salad saver, a reusable drawstring produce bag that’s perfect for storing your veggies.
9. Tropical Chicken Salad Sandwich
**9. Tropical Chicken Salad Sandwich**
Bring some sunshine to your meal with a tropical chicken salad sandwich! This delightful recipe features the sweetness of pineapple and coconut, making it a refreshing summer treat.
Combine shredded chicken with a light, creamy dressing that includes crushed pineapple, chopped green onions, and shredded coconut. For that tropical twist, use Anthony’s Organic Shredded Coconut, which is unsweetened, gluten-free, and adds the perfect texture and flavor to your sandwich. This sandwich is perfect for those warm days when you want something light yet satisfying. Serve it on King’s Hawaiian Original Hawaiian Sweet Rolls for added flavor!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/2 cup crushed pineapple, drained
– 1/4 cup shredded coconut
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions
– Salt to taste
– Hawaiian rolls or coconut bread
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, crushed pineapple, and shredded coconut.
2. Add the shredded chicken, green onions, and salt, mixing well.
3. Serve on Hawaiian rolls and enjoy a taste of the tropics!
Beach Tip:
– Pair with a refreshing fruit salad for a complete picnic meal!
Elevate your lunch game with a tropical chicken salad sandwich! The burst of pineapple and coconut will have you dreaming of summer, no matter the season.
10. Southwest Chicken Salad Sandwich
Feel like adding a kick to your chicken sandwich? The Southwest chicken salad sandwich is packed with flavor and a little heat from zesty ingredients.
This version includes black beans, corn, diced red bell peppers, and a tangy dressing made from Kraft Classic Ranch Dressing and lime juice. Toss it all together with shredded chicken for a hearty, satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Serve it on crusty rolls for an extra crunch!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
– 1/2 cup canned black beans, rinsed
– 1/2 cup corn kernels
– 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
– 1/2 cup ranch dressing
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Crusty rolls or sandwich bread
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, combine ranch dressing and lime juice.
2. Mix in the shredded chicken, black beans, corn, red bell pepper, salt, and pepper.
3. Serve on crusty rolls for an enjoyable crunch.
Party Tip:
– Serve with tortilla chips and salsa for a full Southwest experience!
Conclusion
These chicken salad sandwich variations bring a world of flavors right to your kitchen, perfect for any occasion!
From classic to adventurous, there’s a recipe here that promises to satisfy your cravings and elevate your meal prep game. Whether it’s a sunny picnic or a quick lunch, these easy sandwich recipes will surely become your go-to favorites!
So grab those ingredients, get creative, and enjoy delicious, healthy chicken salads that you’ll want to share with everyone.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are some healthy alternatives to mayonnaise in chicken salad?
If you’re looking to lighten up your chicken salad, consider using Greek yogurt or smashed avocado instead of mayonnaise. Greek yogurt adds a creamy texture with added protein, while avocado provides healthy fats and a rich flavor. These alternatives not only make your chicken salad healthier but also bring a delightful twist to the classic recipe!
Can I make chicken salad sandwiches ahead of time for meal prep?
Absolutely! Chicken salad sandwiches are perfect for meal prep. You can prepare the chicken salad in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just be sure to assemble the sandwiches right before serving to keep the bread fresh. This makes for a quick and easy lunch option that’s ready to go for your busy week!
What are some creative variations for chicken salad sandwiches?
There are so many exciting variations to try! You might enjoy a curried chicken salad for a spicy kick, or a Mediterranean chicken salad with olives and feta for a fresh taste. If you love heat, the spicy Sriracha chicken salad is a fantastic option. Don’t hesitate to mix in nuts, dried fruits, or even tropical flavors like pineapple for a fun twist!
What are some ideas for serving chicken salad at summer picnics?
For your summer picnics, consider serving chicken salad in wraps or lettuce leaves for a lighter option. You can also use mini croissants or pita pockets for a delightful presentation. Pair your chicken salad sandwich or wrap with fresh veggies, fruit salads, or chips for a complete picnic spread that everyone’s sure to love!
How can I make my chicken salad sandwich more filling?
To make your chicken salad sandwich more filling, try adding ingredients like quinoa, chickpeas, or even a handful of nuts. These ingredients not only boost the nutritional value but also add texture and make your sandwich more satisfying. Pairing it with whole grain bread or adding a slice of cheese can also enhance the heartiness of your meal!
