The Queens Chicken Salad Sandwich a Right Royal Treat
Recipe Introduction
Quick Hook
Fancy a bit of lunch, yeah? Ever wondered what the best chicken salad recipe looks like? Well, look no further! We're diving headfirst into the classic chicken salad sandwich , packed with flavour, perfect for that summer picnic.
Brief Overview
The humble chicken salad sandwich has roots across the pond. Its a true transatlantic comfort food. It's a super easy recipe to whip up.
This one serves four and takes about an hour.
Main Benefits
This easy chicken salad sandwich is packed with protein. It will keep you full and happy all arvo. It's the perfect picnic sandwich idea or make-ahead lunch recipes .
Honestly, it's the best! What makes this homemade chicken salad so special is that it’s totally customisable!
Let's Talk Chicken
Right then, first things first. We need to talk chicken salad recipe . Now, don't go reaching for any old bit of bird! Were after proper, moist, tender chicken.
Simmer those breasts like you are trying to impress your nan. Honestly, a good start makes all the difference.
Ingredients You'll Need
For the chicken, grab about 680g of boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Pop those bad boys into a pan with around 950ml of water, a teaspoon of salt, half a teaspoon of black peppercorns, and a bay leaf.
This gives a lovely, subtle flavour, trust me.
Ingredients & Equipment
Let's chat about what you'll need to nail this easy chicken salad sandwich . Honestly, it's all pretty straightforward. We're aiming for a classic chicken salad sandwich with a bit of a twist, so let's get into it.
Main Ingredients
Here's the shopping list, sorted for clarity. No need to overthink it. This homemade chicken salad is all about simple, good ingredients.
For the Chicken:
- 1.5 lbs (680g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts. The key? Look for plump, pink chicken. Avoid anything that looks pale or feels slimy. Trust your instincts, you know?
- 4 cups (950ml) water. Tap water works just fine.
- 1 teaspoon (5g) salt.
- ½ teaspoon (2g) black peppercorns. Freshly cracked is best, but pre-ground is alright too.
- 1 bay leaf . Adds a lovely depth.
For the Chicken Salad:
- ½ cup (120g) mayonnaise (full fat or light). This is where the creamy chicken salad magic happens. Full fat gives you richer flavor but light works if you're watching calories.
- 2 tablespoons (30ml) Dijon mustard. Adds a little tang and kick.
- 1 tablespoon (15ml) lemon juice, freshly squeezed. Bottled works in a pinch, but fresh is always better.
- ¼ teaspoon (1g) celery seed. A must for that classic flavor!
- ¼ cup (30g) finely chopped celery. Adds a nice crunch.
- ¼ cup (30g) finely chopped red onion. For a bit of bite.
- ¼ cup (30g) finely chopped fresh parsley. Adds freshness.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste. Season generously!
For the Sandwiches:
- 8 slices of your favourite bread (sourdough, whole wheat, or brioche recommended). I love chicken salad on sourdough , but honestly, use what you like!
- Lettuce leaves (optional). For a bit of green.
Seasoning Notes
Celery seed is key for that distinctive chicken salad flavour. But if you don't have it, a pinch of celery salt will do.
The Dijon mustard adds a lovely tang, but you can sub it for a milder yellow mustard if you prefer a milder taste.
It’s a chicken salad recipe after all, so feel free to experiment a little.
Equipment Needed
Keep it simple, yeah? All you really need are these:
- Large saucepan.
- Mixing bowl.
- Cutting board.
- Chef's knife.
- Measuring cups and spoons.
Don't have a proper mixing bowl? A large pot will do! And honestly, if you don't have measuring spoons, just eyeball it.
Cooking is about having fun, so there's nothing to worry about. This is the best chicken salad recipe in my opinion!.
It's perfect for picnic sandwich ideas or even as make-ahead lunch recipes . Plus, it’s easy to see why there are so many chicken salad sandwich variations , so go ahead and give it a whirl.
The Queen's Chicken Salad Sandwich: A Right Royal Treat
This chicken salad sandwich isn't just lunch; it's an experience. We're talking next level comfort food, elevated with perfectly cooked chicken and a creamy, tangy dressing.
Think picnic sandwich ideas worthy of royalty (or at least your best mate). Forget boring sarnies, this classic chicken salad sandwich will blow your mind.
It is so simple.
Prep Steps: Essential Mise en Place
Honestly, the secret to any good recipe, and especially this easy chicken salad sandwich , is getting your ducks in a row.
Essential mise en place is just a fancy way of saying "get organized." Dice your celery, red onion, and parsley beforehand.
This makes life so much easier. Measure out your mayonnaise, Dijon, and lemon juice. Then, chill out and wait for the chicken.
Also, for safety, always use a clean cutting board for raw chicken.
step-by-step: Crafting Your Royal Sandwich
Right then, let's get down to business and make some homemade chicken salad .
- Cook the chicken: Pop 1.5 lbs (680g) chicken breasts in a pan with 4 cups (950ml) water, 1 tsp (5g) salt, ½ tsp (2g) peppercorns, and a bay leaf. Simmer for 20- 25 minutes . Internal temperature must reach 165° F ( 74° C) .
- Shred it: Cool the chicken slightly, then shred it with two forks. Honestly, shredding is way more fun than chopping.
- Mix the dressing: In a bowl, whisk ½ cup (120g) mayonnaise, 2 tbsp (30ml) Dijon mustard, 1 tbsp (15ml) lemon juice, and ¼ tsp (1g) celery seed.
- Combine: Add the shredded chicken, ¼ cup (30g) celery, ¼ cup (30g) red onion, and ¼ cup (30g) parsley to the dressing. Stir gently.
- Chill: Season to taste and chill for at least 30 minutes . This lets the flavours get to know each other.
- Assemble sandwiches: Slather slices of delicious sourdough with creamy chicken salad for the best chicken salad recipe ever.
Pro Tips: Elevate Your Sandwich Game
For a truly best in class chicken salad recipe , don't overcook the chicken! Simmering keeps it moist. Chilling the salad is non-negotiable.
For a creamy chicken salad , add a touch more mayo. Want to make it ahead? This make-ahead lunch recipe keeps well for 2-3 days in the fridge.
And remember Aunt Mildred hates soggy bread!. For extra flavor, try some chicken salad sandwich variations , I love adding a touch of curry powder to the chicken salad recipe .
Recipe Notes: Elevating Your Chicken Salad Sandwich Game
Right, so you're about to dive into making the best chicken salad recipe ever. Before you get cracking, let’s run through some extra bits and bobs that'll make your homemade chicken salad experience even better.
Honestly, these are the bits that separate "good" from "Oh my gosh, this is incredible!"
Serving Suggestions: Plating Like a Pro
How you serve your classic chicken salad sandwich matters. I'm telling you! Think about it: a beautifully presented sandwich is just more enjoyable. Cut it diagonally, you know? Fancy!
Consider serving your chicken salad on sourdough alongside some crispy potato chips. Maybe even some posh coleslaw for a right proper picnic.
Lemonade is a must. It pairs perfectly with the creamy chicken salad . These are top-notch picnic sandwich ideas .
Storage Tips: Keeping It Fresh
Okay, let's talk storage. Because nobody wants soggy sarnies.
Refrigerate your chicken salad in an airtight container. It'll be good for up to 3 days. That makes it perfect for make-ahead lunch recipes .
Freezing this isn't ideal, as the mayonnaise can separate. But if you must, use a freezer safe container. Thaw it in the fridge overnight and give it a good stir before using.
Reheat? Nah, this is a cold dish, mate!
Variations: Mix It Up!
Fancy a twist? I have some chicken salad sandwich variations up my sleeve.
For a lighter option, try using Greek yogurt instead of some of the mayo. Adds a tang and cuts the calories.
Also, try a curry chicken salad recipe ! Add 1 teaspoon of curry powder. Blimey it's good.
Want to adapt? Try adding cranberries and walnuts. Seasonal? Use apples in autumn. The possibilities are endless, really.
Nutrition Basics: Keeping It Real
Okay, let’s get real. One serving of this easy chicken salad sandwich (about 1/4 of the recipe) is roughly: 450 calories, 30g protein, 25g fat, and 20g carbs.
Chicken is a great source of lean protein. Celery adds fibre. Mayonnaise, well, it’s there for flavour. But you can always use a lighter version! It's all about balance, isn't it?
So, go on. Give this chicken salad a go. Don't be afraid to experiment! I have no doubt that you will make it work.
You'll soon have the best chicken salad sandwich on the street. It's easier than you think. Enjoy!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make chicken salad sandwich ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, making chicken salad a day in advance allows the flavors to meld together even more beautifully. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge. It's like giving the flavours a little holiday before they hit the bread!
Just assemble the sandwiches right before serving to avoid soggy bread nobody wants a sad, soggy sandwich.
What are some tasty variations I can try with my chicken salad sandwich recipe?
Oh, the possibilities are endless! For a bit of spice, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the dressing. You could also throw in some chopped grapes or apples for a touch of sweetness and crunch.
If you're feeling fancy, swap out the celery for some water chestnuts for a surprising textural element a bit like a party in your mouth!
How long does chicken salad last in the fridge, and how should I store it?
Chicken salad is best enjoyed within 3-4 days of making it. Always store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its freshness and prevent any unwanted bacteria from crashing the party. If it starts to look or smell a bit "off," it's best to toss it better safe than sorry, as they say!
What's the best way to cook the chicken for a chicken salad sandwich to ensure it's moist and flavorful?
Poaching the chicken is the key to keeping it super moist. Simmering it gently in water with some aromatics like peppercorns and a bay leaf infuses it with subtle flavor without drying it out. Think of it as giving the chicken a spa day before its starring role in the chicken salad sandwich.
Avoid boiling it vigorously, which can lead to tough, rubbery chicken - nobody wants chicken like shoe leather!
Can I freeze chicken salad?
Freezing chicken salad isn't generally recommended, as the mayonnaise can separate upon thawing, resulting in a less than-ideal texture. It's a bit like trying to un-ring a bell once the damage is done, it's hard to go back!
If you absolutely must freeze it, consider using a mayonnaise substitute like Greek yogurt, which tends to hold up better. But fresh is always best for this one!
Is there a healthier alternative to mayonnaise for my chicken salad sandwich?
You bet! Plain Greek yogurt is a fantastic substitute for some or all of the mayonnaise. It provides a similar creamy texture but with significantly less fat and more protein. Think of it as the Mary Berry approved healthy swap.
You can also experiment with using avocado or a light vinaigrette for a totally different, but equally delicious, twist.
The Queens Chicken Salad Sandwich A Right Royal
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 450 calories |
|---|---|
| Fat | 25g |
| Fiber | 20g |
