Classic Chicken Sandwiches

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The Creamy Deli-Style Chicken Sandwiches are a perfect blend of finely shredded chicken, fresh dill, and crunchy walnuts, all enveloped in a creamy sauce of mayonnaise and sour cream. This mixture creates a melt-in-your-mouth texture that elevates the traditional chicken sandwich to a whole new level of gourmet flavor.

These sandwiches are not only quick to prepare but also versatile and delightful for any gathering, from a picnic in the park to a quick work lunch. The combination of soft white bread and the creamy, flavorful filling makes these sandwiches truly irresistible.

Full Recipe:

500g/1 lb cooked chicken meat from 1 large store-bought roast chicken (or homemade, see Note 1)

1 celery stem, sliced thin
1 green onion stem, finely sliced
3/4 cup walnuts, roughly chopped (or substitute, see Note 2)

3 tbsp finely chopped cornichon/dill pickle
1 1/2 tbsp finely chopped fresh dill (see Note 3)

Sauce:

2/3 cup whole egg mayonnaise
2/3 cup sour cream (or full-fat yogurt)
2 tsp Dijon mustard

1 1/2 tbsp lemon juice (or white wine or cider vinegar)
1/2 tsp onion powder
1/4 tsp garlic powder

3/4 tsp kosher salt
1/4 tsp black pepper

Sandwiches:

Salted butter for spreading on bread
20 slices white sandwich bread, day-old (see Note 5)

Directions:

Shred the chicken as finely as possible. Use a stand mixer with a paddle attachment for best results, or a handheld beater. Alternatively, use your hands.
Mix all Sauce ingredients in a bowl until smooth.
Combine the shredded chicken, Sauce, and remaining Filling ingredients. Stir until well-mixed.

Butter each slice of bread, then spread the chicken filling evenly from edge to edge.
Cut off the crusts for a classic “gourmet” look (optional).
Slice sandwiches into halves, diagonals, or rectangles for serving. (For neat edges, refrigerate the sandwiches before slicing.)

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 0 minutes | Total Time: 15 minutes
Kcal: 245 kcal | Servings: 10 sandwiches

Background & Inspiration

These Creamy Deli-Style Chicken Sandwiches are inspired by the classic gourmet sandwiches you often find in upscale delis or cafes. The key to recreating that soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture is to finely shred the chicken, making every bite tender and full of flavor. The use of sour cream, along with mayonnaise, adds a tangy creaminess that balances the richness without making the filling too heavy or oily. The inclusion of walnuts not only adds a delightful crunch but also a hint of nuttiness that elevates the flavor profile of this sandwich.

Key Tips for Perfect Chicken Sandwiches

Finely Shredded Chicken: The real secret to the best chicken filling is shredding the chicken very finely. A stand mixer works wonders for this, but a handheld beater or even a fork and some patience can do the job. The finer the shred, the creamier the texture, giving you that “gourmet deli” feel.

Choice of Chicken: A whole store-bought roast chicken provides a great blend of white and dark meat for a variety of flavors and juiciness. If you prefer using chicken breast, consider poaching it to retain moisture and adding a bit of salt to enhance flavor.
Bread Selection: A day-old white sandwich bread works best for these sandwiches. The slight staleness of the bread helps hold the filling without making the sandwich soggy. However, feel free to experiment with other bread types like sourdough, brioche, or whole grain for different textures and flavors.

Variations & Customizations

Nuts: While walnuts are a classic addition, you can also use cashews, macadamia nuts, or pecans for a different flavor and texture.

Herbs & Add-ons: Fresh dill is the hero herb for this recipe, lending a fresh and aromatic taste. However, you can leave it out if you don’t prefer it or substitute with other fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a different touch.
Pickles & Veggies: Adding cornichons or dill pickles introduces a slight tang that contrasts beautifully with the creaminess of the filling. If you’re a fan of more crunch, consider adding diced bell peppers or grated carrots for an extra layer of texture and flavor.

Serving & Pairing Suggestions

These sandwiches are perfect for any occasion—holiday gatherings, picnic platters, quick work lunches, or even an elegant high-tea setup. Serve them alongside:

Salads: A light leafy salad or coleslaw can provide a fresh contrast to the creamy filling of the sandwiches.
Snacks & Sides: Pair with chips, fries, or pickled vegetables for a flavorful and varied platter.
Beverages: These sandwiches pair well with iced tea, lemonade, or even a sparkling drink for a refreshing combo.

Storage & Meal Prep Tips

Storing the Filling: The chicken filling keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days in an airtight container. In fact, the flavors often improve as they have more time to meld together.
Prepping in Advance: If you are making these sandwiches ahead for a gathering, it’s best to prepare the filling in advance, store it separately, and assemble the sandwiches closer to serving time. This ensures that the bread remains fresh and doesn’t get soggy.
Keeping Assembled Sandwiches Fresh: If assembling in advance, wrap the sandwiches in plastic wrap or store them in an airtight container to prevent drying out.

Nutritional Information & Portion Control

With a balanced mix of protein, healthy fats, and fresh veggies, these sandwiches are quite satisfying and filling. A serving provides about 245 kcal, making them a wholesome choice for lunch or a hearty snack. For a lighter version, you can reduce the amount of filling per sandwich, opt for low-fat mayonnaise, or use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream.

Fun Fact

These sandwiches make for great finger food at parties, and you can easily slice them into smaller portions to serve as canapés or appetizers. To keep things interesting, try using a cookie cutter to create fun shapes for kids’ lunches or themed gatherings.

History of the Chicken Sandwich

The concept of the chicken sandwich has been around for centuries, with its origins believed to be in European cuisine, where roasted or boiled chicken was often paired with bread for an easy and portable meal. Over time, chicken sandwiches evolved from basic preparations to the more refined, gourmet versions found in delis today. The addition of ingredients like mayonnaise, nuts, and fresh herbs transformed a humble sandwich into a sophisticated, flavor-packed dish that’s suitable for a variety of occasions.

Why This Recipe Stands Out

The combination of finely shredded chicken with the creamy sauce makes this sandwich a standout because of its luxurious mouthfeel and subtle complexity of flavors. Unlike chunkier chicken salads, this finely shredded version has a smooth and creamy texture that spreads evenly on the bread, making every bite melt in your mouth. The addition of crunchy walnuts and a hint of dill gives these sandwiches a refreshing twist that makes them stand out among typical chicken sandwich recipes.

Alternative Flavors & Mix-ins

For those looking to elevate or tweak the flavor profile of these sandwiches, here are some additional ingredients to consider:

Avocado: Adding mashed avocado to the sauce mixture can enhance the creaminess and bring a subtle buttery flavor to the filling.

Spices & Seasonings: If you prefer a little kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper, smoked paprika, or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce mixture. These spices can add depth and complexity, turning the sandwich into a savory delight.
Fruits for a Sweet Note: If you enjoy a mix of sweet and savory, add chopped apples, grapes, or dried cranberries to the filling. This adds a refreshing sweetness and a delightful burst of flavor that complements the creamy sauce and chicken.

Gluten-Free & Health-Conscious Alternatives

Bread Options: For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free sandwich bread, wraps, or even lettuce leaves as an alternative to traditional white bread. If opting for a healthier bread choice, whole grain or multi-seed bread not only adds fiber but also introduces a delightful nuttiness that pairs well with the walnuts in the filling.

Dairy-Free Version: Replace sour cream with dairy-free yogurt or a plant-based sour cream alternative. Similarly, use vegan mayonnaise to make this recipe suitable for dairy-free or vegan preferences.

Creative Presentation Ideas

Finger Sandwiches & Tea Parties: For a refined touch, cut the sandwiches into small, rectangular “finger” sandwiches or triangles. Perfect for tea parties, bridal showers, or any event where an elegant presentation is desired.
Slider Sandwiches: Use mini buns or slider rolls to create small, bite-sized chicken sandwiches. This makes them perfect for casual gatherings, tailgating, or kids’ lunches.

Open-Faced Sandwiches: For a lighter twist, serve the chicken filling on toasted bread slices as an open-faced sandwich, garnished with fresh herbs, microgreens, or sprouts.

Flavor Pairing & Side Dish Ideas

These chicken sandwiches have a rich, creamy flavor, so they pair well with sides that are light, fresh, or tangy to balance out the richness:

Crispy Veggie Sticks & Dip: Pair the sandwiches with crunchy celery, cucumber, or carrot sticks, served alongside a light yogurt-based dip or hummus.

Fresh Salad Greens: A simple side salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette complements the sandwiches’ flavors and adds a refreshing touch.
Soup & Sandwich Combo: Make it a cozy meal by serving these sandwiches with a warm soup like tomato bisque, roasted red pepper soup, or chicken noodle. The warmth of the soup enhances the comfort factor of the meal.

Perfect for Meal Prepping

This chicken sandwich filling is an excellent option for meal prepping because it stores well, and the flavors improve as they meld together over time. You can make a batch of the filling at the start of the week and use it in various ways:

Sandwich Wraps & Rolls: Besides traditional sandwiches, use the filling in wraps or tortillas for a grab-and-go lunch option.
Stuffed Avocado or Tomato Halves: For a low-carb version, use the chicken filling to stuff avocado halves, tomatoes, or even bell peppers for a nutritious and flavorful meal.

How to Store & Reheat

Filling Storage: Store any leftover chicken filling in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors often get better the next day as they meld together.

Assembly Tips: If you want to keep your sandwiches as fresh as possible, store the filling separately and assemble the sandwiches just before eating. Buttering the bread also helps create a barrier to prevent the bread from getting soggy.
Reheating (Optional): While these sandwiches are traditionally served cold, you can experiment by toasting or grilling them for a few minutes until the bread is golden and the filling slightly warm. This adds a new dimension of flavor and texture to the sandwich.

Recipe Additions & Enhancements

To make the sandwiches even more delectable, consider adding:

Cheese Slices: A layer of cheese, such as Swiss, cheddar, or gouda, can add an extra depth of flavor. For a melted option, toast the assembled sandwich in a pan or griddle until the cheese is gooey.
Pickled Red Onions: These add a tangy bite and a pop of color to the sandwiches, creating a contrast to the creamy filling.
Fresh Herbs as Garnish: A sprinkle of fresh dill, parsley, or even chives on top before serving adds a fresh aromatic touch and visual appeal.

Conclusion

These Creamy Deli-Style Chicken Sandwiches are a delightful twist on the classic sandwich, offering a soft, creamy filling with finely shredded chicken, a tangy mayo-sour cream sauce, and a hint of crunch from walnuts. Perfect for any occasion, they are easy to make, versatile, and adaptable to dietary preferences. Whether for a picnic, lunch, or party platter, these sandwiches are sure to be a crowd-pleaser and a recipe you’ll want to make again and again!