Classic Chicken Salad Sandwich

Amanda McKillop

This Classic Chicken Salad Sandwich is a refined, nostalgic dish inspired by Southern American charm with a modern, gourmet twist. The base of poached chicken breast offers a tender texture, while the marriage of crisp celery, creamy mayonnaise, and a subtle aroma of fresh herbs makes every bite satisfying. Whether served as a light lunch or picnic favorite, this recipe balances comfort and culinary finesse.

No ratings yet

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20

Cook Time 20

Total Time 40

Course Main Course

Cuisine American

Servings sandwiches

Calories 322 kcal

Equipment

Medium saucepan
Sharp Chef’s Knife
Cutting board
Mixing bowl
Measuring cups and spoons
Spoon or Silicone Spatula

Ingredients

2 cups cooked chicken breast poached and diced for best tenderness
½ cup mayonnaise use full-fat for richness or Greek yogurt for a lighter option
¼ cup celery finely diced for crunch and freshness
2 tablespoons red onion finely minced for gentle sharpness
1 tablespoon fresh parsley finely chopped, or substitute with tarragon for a gourmet twist
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard adds tang and depth
½ teaspoon kosher salt adjust to taste
¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper adds mild heat and aroma
4 pieces brioche sandwich rolls toasted lightly for texture
1 cup butter lettuce leaves rinsed and dried

Instructions

Poach the chicken breasts until fully cooked (internal temperature reaches 165°F / 74°C), about 20 minutes depending on thickness. Let them cool, then dice into ½-inch cubes.
In a large mixing bowl, combine diced chicken, mayonnaise, celery, red onion, parsley, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Mix gently with a spoon or spatula to evenly coat all ingredients without mashing them.
Taste and adjust seasoning, adding more mustard for zing or celery for crunch as preferred.
Lightly toast the brioche sandwich rolls until golden, about 2 minutes per side on a dry skillet or in the toaster.
Lay a bed of butter lettuce on the bottom half of each toasted roll, then generously spoon the chicken salad mixture over the lettuce. Top with the other half of the roll.

Notes

Use leftover rotisserie chicken for a quicker preparation, though poached chicken yields the most tender result.
A touch of finely chopped apple or grapes adds a delicious sweet contrast.
For extra crunch, consider topping with a few crushed walnuts or sunflower seeds before closing the sandwich.

Nutrition

Calories: 322kcalCarbohydrates: 3gProtein: 23gFat: 24gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 13gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gTrans Fat: 0.1gCholesterol: 73mgSodium: 547mgPotassium: 358mgFiber: 1gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 2115IUVitamin C: 4mgCalcium: 41mgIron: 2mg

Feedback is key!