Chicken Salad Sandwich Recipe: Easy, Healthy, and Quick Meal

Craving a delicious and satisfying lunch that’s quick and easy to make? This chicken salad sandwich recipe is the perfect solution! Made with simple ingredients like chopped chicken, hardboiled egg, and mayo, this sandwich is creamy, flavorful, and incredibly versatile. Whether you’re using leftover chicken or making it fresh, this recipe is a great way to enjoy a tasty meal in minutes!

Chicken salad sandwich is my favorite way to use up leftover chicken.  Whenever we have roast chicken for dinner, the next day it’s time for chicken salad sandwiches for lunch!

Why You’ll Love Chicken Salad Sandwich

• Easy to Make: With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, this chicken salad sandwich is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner. No cooking is required, making it a fuss-free recipe that anyone can whip up in minutes.
• Versatile and Customizable: You can easily adjust the ingredients to suit your taste. Add crunchy celery, sweet grapes, or tangy onions for a different twist each time. The flexibility of this recipe makes it a go-to for any occasion.
• Great for Leftovers: This recipe is a fantastic way to use up leftover chicken from last night’s dinner. You’ll reduce food waste and enjoy a fresh, delicious meal that feels entirely new.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Prepare the chicken salad ahead of time and keep it in the fridge. It’s ready whenever you need a quick, satisfying meal. Ideal for busy weekdays or packed lunches!
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this creamy, flavorful sandwich. It’s a simple way to ensure everyone enjoys a wholesome meal, and it’s easy to pair with a variety of side dishes.

Making a chicken salad is extremely easy.  The basic ingredients for a chicken salad are chopped cooked chicken, chopped hardboiled egg and mayo.   Once you have the basics, you can add other optional ingredients such as chopped onions, pickles or grapes.

To make a chicken salad sandwich, just spread the chicken salad between two slices of bread.  You can also add optional toppings such as lettuce, tomatoes or onion slices.

You can also slice a chicken salad sandwich diagonally so it’s shaped like a triangle.  Enjoy!

Ingredients:

• Cooked chicken meat, chopped: Provides the protein base for the salad, adding a savory flavor and hearty texture.
• Boiled egg, mashed with a fork: Adds creaminess and a slight richness, enhancing the salad’s flavor and making it more filling.
• Pickles, chopped: Brings a tangy crunch, balancing the creaminess of the mayo and adding a burst of flavor.
• Mayo, to taste: Acts as the binder, giving the chicken salad its creamy texture; you can adjust the amount to your liking.
• Bread (2 slices): Holds everything together, making it easy to enjoy as a sandwich; use your favorite type of bread, whether white, whole wheat, or gluten-free.

For the exact measurements of the ingredients, see the printable recipe card at the bottom of this article.

Kitchen Tools You Need to Make Chicken Salad Sandwich

• Mixing Bowl: Used to combine all the ingredients for the chicken salad.
• Fork: Helps in mashing the boiled egg to the desired consistency.
• Knife: Essential for chopping the chicken, pickles, and optional ingredients like onions or grapes.
• Cutting Board: Provides a clean surface for chopping all the ingredients.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Ensures accurate measurements for ingredients like mayo and pickles.
• Spoon or Spatula: For mixing the salad ingredients evenly and spreading the salad onto the bread.

Directions:

Mix chicken, egg, pickles and mayo.  Spread on the slice of bread.  Top with another slice.

How to Make Chicken Salad Sandwich

• Start by chopping the cooked chicken into small, bite-sized pieces and place them in a mixing bowl.
• Mash the boiled egg with a fork until it reaches a crumbly texture, then add it to the bowl with the chicken.
• Chop the pickles finely and mix them into the chicken and egg mixture.
• Add mayonnaise to the bowl, starting with a small amount and adding more as needed to achieve your desired creaminess. Mix everything together until well combined.
• Spread the chicken salad mixture evenly onto one slice of bread using a spoon or spatula.
• Top with the second slice of bread. For added flavor and texture, consider adding optional toppings like lettuce, tomato, or onion slices.
• Cut the sandwich diagonally for a classic presentation, or leave it whole if you prefer.
• Serve immediately and enjoy your homemade chicken salad sandwich!

Serving Suggestions

• Serve your chicken salad sandwich with a side of crispy potato chips or a light garden salad for a balanced meal.
• Pair with a bowl of warm soup, like tomato or chicken noodle, for a comforting lunch or dinner.
• Add a slice of cheese, such as cheddar or Swiss, and toast the sandwich in a skillet for a delicious twist on a classic.
• For a refreshing contrast, serve with fresh fruit like apple slices or grapes on the side.
• Consider serving the sandwich with a glass of iced tea or lemonade to complement the creamy, savory flavors.

Tips For Success

• Choose the Right Chicken: Use cooked chicken that is tender and juicy for the best results. Leftover roasted or grilled chicken works wonderfully, but you can also use poached chicken breasts. Avoid using chicken that is too dry, as it can affect the texture of the salad.
• Get Creative with Add-Ins: Feel free to experiment with different ingredients to make the chicken salad uniquely yours. Add chopped celery for extra crunch, diced apples or grapes for a touch of sweetness, or even a handful of nuts like walnuts or almonds for added texture and flavor.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Freshly boiled eggs, crisp pickles, and quality mayo will make a noticeable difference in taste. Opt for fresh produce and ingredients whenever possible to ensure the best flavor in your sandwich.
• Adjust the Mayo: The amount of mayo can be adjusted according to your taste preferences. Start with a small amount and gradually add more until you reach your desired creaminess. You can also use Greek yogurt or avocado as a healthier alternative to mayo.
• Prepare Ahead for Convenience: Make the chicken salad mixture ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. This allows the flavors to meld together, making the salad even tastier. Just assemble the sandwich when you’re ready to eat!
• Serve Immediately for Best Results: While the chicken salad can be stored in the fridge, it’s best to assemble the sandwich right before serving to prevent the bread from becoming soggy. If you need to prepare in advance, keep the salad mixture and bread separate until just before serving.
• Cut with a Sharp Knife: Use a sharp knife to cut the sandwich cleanly, especially if adding extra ingredients like lettuce or tomatoes. This will help maintain the sandwich’s shape and make it easier to handle.
• Add a Pinch of Seasoning: Taste the chicken salad before assembling the sandwich and adjust the seasoning as needed. A pinch of salt, pepper, or even a dash of paprika can enhance the overall flavor.

Variations and Substitutions

• Make It Healthier: Substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or mashed avocado for a healthier version of the chicken salad. Both options provide creaminess and a rich flavor while reducing the calorie count. You can also add a bit of Dijon mustard to the yogurt or avocado for extra tang.
• Add a Sweet Touch: If you love a hint of sweetness in your salad, try adding fruits like diced apples, grapes, or dried cranberries. These additions complement the savory elements and create a delightful contrast with the creamy chicken mixture. For a touch of freshness, add chopped herbs like dill, parsley, or tarragon.
• Go Low Carb: To make this recipe low-carb or keto-friendly, serve the chicken salad on lettuce wraps instead of bread. Romaine or butter lettuce leaves work particularly well. You can also enjoy it as a topping on cucumber slices or in hollowed-out bell peppers for a crunchy and satisfying meal.
• Make It Dairy-Free: This chicken salad is naturally dairy-free as long as you use mayonnaise without dairy. If adding extra ingredients like cheese, choose a dairy-free cheese alternative to keep the recipe suitable for those avoiding dairy products.
• Spice It Up: For a bit of heat, add chopped jalapeños, a dash of hot sauce, or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes. You can also mix in a teaspoon of curry powder or cumin for a different flavor profile. These additions will give your chicken salad an exciting twist that’s far from ordinary.
• Switch Up the Protein: If you’re out of chicken or want to try something different, substitute with canned tuna, turkey, or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option. Each alternative offers a unique flavor while maintaining the protein-packed benefits of the original recipe.
• Add Extra Crunch: Incorporate ingredients like chopped celery, bell peppers, or nuts such as almonds or pecans to add a crunchy texture. These additions enhance the overall eating experience and bring additional flavor dimensions to the salad.
• Use Different Breads: Change up the bread for a new twist every time. Try whole wheat, sourdough, rye, or even a croissant for a more indulgent option. Gluten-free bread is perfect for those with dietary restrictions, ensuring everyone can enjoy this delicious sandwich.

Storage and Reheating

• Storage: To store any leftover chicken salad, place it in an airtight container and refrigerate it promptly. The chicken salad will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. Be sure to keep the salad separate from the bread to prevent it from becoming soggy.
• Reheating: Since this is a no-cook recipe, there’s no need to reheat the chicken salad. However, if you want to enjoy it warm, consider toasting the bread separately and then adding the chilled chicken salad on top. This combination of warm, crispy bread and cool, creamy salad can make for a delightful contrast in textures.
• Freezing: It’s not recommended to freeze chicken salad due to the mayonnaise, which can separate when thawed, affecting the texture and flavor. However, you can freeze the cooked chicken separately and prepare the salad fresh whenever needed.
• Packing for Lunch: If you’re packing this sandwich for lunch, keep the chicken salad in a separate container and assemble the sandwich just before eating. This will keep the bread from becoming soggy and maintain the freshness of the ingredients.
• Reviving Leftovers: If the chicken salad seems a bit dry after storing, you can revive it by adding a small amount of fresh mayo or Greek yogurt and mixing it well before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?

Yes, rotisserie chicken is a great option for making a chicken salad sandwich. It is already cooked and seasoned, which adds extra flavor to the salad. Simply remove the skin and shred or chop the meat before mixing it with the other ingredients.

How can I make this chicken salad sandwich gluten-free?

To make the chicken salad sandwich gluten-free, use gluten-free bread or serve the chicken salad on lettuce wraps instead. Make sure to check that all other ingredients, like mayonnaise, are also gluten-free.

Can I prepare the chicken salad ahead of time?

Absolutely! The chicken salad can be made up to three days in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Preparing it ahead allows the flavors to meld together, making the salad even tastier when you’re ready to serve it.

What can I use instead of mayonnaise?

If you want a healthier option or don’t like mayonnaise, you can substitute it with Greek yogurt, mashed avocado, or a combination of both. These alternatives provide a similar creamy texture with added health benefits.

Can I freeze the chicken salad?

Freezing chicken salad is not recommended because mayonnaise tends to separate when frozen, resulting in an undesirable texture after thawing. However, you can freeze the cooked chicken and prepare the salad fresh whenever needed.

How do I keep the bread from getting soggy?

To prevent the bread from becoming soggy, store the chicken salad and bread separately until just before serving. You can also lightly toast the bread, which adds a barrier against moisture and enhances the texture of the sandwich.

Can I make this chicken salad dairy-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally dairy-free as long as you use a mayonnaise that doesn’t contain dairy. Just avoid adding any ingredients like cheese, and the salad will be suitable for those with dairy restrictions.

How can I add more flavor to the chicken salad?

You can enhance the flavor of your chicken salad by adding fresh herbs like dill or parsley, a squeeze of lemon juice, or a pinch of seasoning like paprika or curry powder. Adjust these additions to suit your personal taste.

Other Easy Chicken Recipes

Oven-Baked Chicken Fillets: Tender and juicy chicken fillets seasoned to perfection and baked in the oven for a healthy and delicious meal.

Skillet-Fried Crispy Chicken Strips: Golden and crunchy chicken strips pan-fried to crispy perfection in a skillet for a quick and tasty dish.

Pressure Cooker Chicken Thigh Quarters: Succulent chicken thigh quarters cooked in the pressure cooker for a flavorful and effortless dinner.

Air Fryer Chicken with Broccoli: A healthy and quick meal of seasoned chicken pieces and broccoli florets cooked to crispy perfection in the air fryer.

Air Fryer Grilled Chicken Skewers: Deliciously marinated chicken skewers grilled in the air fryer for a smoky, juicy taste without the grill.

Foil-Wrapped Chicken Breast in Air Fryer: Moist and tender chicken breast cooked in foil in the air fryer, sealing in all the flavors and juices.

Grilled Chicken Strips Under Broiler: Perfectly seasoned chicken strips broiled to a savory, golden finish for a quick and easy protein boost.

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