The Classic Chicken Salad Sandwich is a timeless favorite featuring tender, shredded chicken blended with a creamy dressing, crisp celery, and subtle seasoning, all layered between slices of soft bread. It’s simple, satisfying, and perfect for lunch, picnics, or casual gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and easy to prepare with minimal ingredients.
Customizable to your taste with add-ins like herbs, nuts, or fruits.
Great for meal prep—stays fresh in the fridge for several days.
Can be served cold or toasted, on bread, wraps, or lettuce cups.
Balanced, protein-rich, and deliciously creamy.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Cooked chicken breast (shredded or chopped)
Mayonnaise
Dijon mustard or yellow mustard (optional)
Celery (finely chopped)
Red onion or green onion (optional)
Salt and black pepper
Fresh parsley or dill (optional)
Bread slices (white, whole wheat, or multigrain)
Optional add-ins: chopped apples, grapes, walnuts, pickles

directions

In a medium bowl, combine shredded chicken, chopped celery, and onion.
Add mayonnaise and mustard, then stir until everything is evenly coated.
Season with salt, black pepper, and herbs if using. Mix well.
Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Spoon the chicken salad onto a slice of bread. Top with another slice, then cut in half and serve.
Optional: Toast the bread before assembling, or serve in a croissant, wrap, or lettuce leaves for variation.

Servings and timing

Servings: 3–4 sandwiches
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes (if cooking chicken)
Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

Greek yogurt: Substitute some or all of the mayo with plain Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
Sweet and crunchy: Add chopped apples, grapes, or dried cranberries with toasted almonds or walnuts.
Spicy kick: Stir in a dash of hot sauce or chopped jalapeños.
Herbed chicken salad: Add chopped fresh herbs like dill, tarragon, or basil.
Avocado version: Replace part of the mayo with mashed avocado for added creaminess and healthy fats.

storage/reheating

Storage: Store chicken salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Bread storage: Keep sandwich bread separate and assemble just before serving to avoid sogginess.
Freezing: Not recommended due to the mayonnaise base, which may separate when thawed.
Reheating: This sandwich is typically served cold or at room temperature; no reheating needed.

FAQs

Can I use canned chicken?

Yes, canned chicken works well. Drain it thoroughly and shred before mixing.

What bread is best for this sandwich?

Soft sandwich bread, croissants, ciabatta, or wraps all work. Choose based on your preferred texture.

How can I make this healthier?

Use low-fat mayonnaise or Greek yogurt, and serve in lettuce wraps instead of bread.

Can I make chicken salad in advance?

Yes, it tastes even better after chilling for a few hours as the flavors meld.

What can I serve with chicken salad sandwiches?

Chips, pickles, a side salad, or a bowl of soup pair well with this dish.

How do I keep the sandwich from getting soggy?

Assemble sandwiches just before eating or layer with lettuce to create a moisture barrier.

Can I add eggs to the salad?

Yes, chopped hard-boiled eggs can be added for extra protein and creaminess.

Can I freeze chicken salad?

Freezing is not recommended as mayonnaise-based dressings do not hold up well after thawing.

Is this suitable for kids?

Yes, it’s mild and creamy—great for lunchboxes or easy meals.

Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Absolutely. It adds flavor and saves prep time—just remove the skin and shred the meat.

Conclusion

The Classic Chicken Salad Sandwich is a versatile, creamy, and protein-rich staple that never goes out of style. Whether served on toasted bread, in a wrap, or over greens, it offers a delicious balance of flavors and textures, making it a go-to choice for meals any time of year.