Introduction
When it comes to preparing the perfect sandwich, the ingredients are paramount. The combination of succulent chicken, crunchy vegetables, and a creamy sauce creates a flavor profile that is both satisfying and refreshing. This recipe not only highlights the importance of quality ingredients but also shows how to bring them together in a delightful way, making it perfect for lunchboxes, picnics, or casual gatherings.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
Filling:
– 500g (1 lb) cooked chicken meat from 1 large store-bought roast chicken
– 1 celery stem, sliced 3mm (0.1″) thick, then into 0.5cm (0.2″) pieces
– 1 green onion stem, finely sliced
– 3/4 cup walnuts, roughly chopped
– 3 tablespoons finely chopped cornichon or dill pickle
– 1 1/2 tablespoons finely chopped dill
Sauce:
– 2/3 cup whole egg mayonnaise
– 2/3 cup sour cream (or full-fat yogurt)
– 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
– 1 1/2 tablespoons lemon juice (or white wine or cider vinegar)
– 1/2 teaspoon onion powder (or additional garlic powder)
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (or additional onion powder)
– 3/4 teaspoon cooking or kosher salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Sandwiches:
– Salted butter, for spreading on bread
– 20 slices white sandwich bread, day-old (or more slices for less filling)
Prep Time
Approximately 15 minutes.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Yield: Makes 10 sandwiches (adjust according to filling quantities)
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Shred the Chicken
Shred the cooked chicken meat as finely as possible. The most effective method is to use a stand mixer. Place the chicken meat in the bowl with the paddle attachment and mix on medium speed until it is finely shredded, which should take about 1 minute. Alternatively, you can use a handheld beater or shred it by hand if preferred.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
In a mixing bowl, combine all the sauce ingredients: whole egg mayonnaise, sour cream (or full-fat yogurt), Dijon mustard, lemon juice (or white wine or cider vinegar), onion powder, garlic powder, cooking or kosher salt, and black pepper. Mix until the ingredients are smooth, using a whisk if necessary.
Step 3: Combine Filling Ingredients
Pour the prepared sauce over the shredded chicken in the bowl. Add the sliced celery, green onion, walnuts, cornichon (or dill pickle), and dill. Stir everything together until all ingredients are well combined.
Step 4: Prepare the Bread
Take your day-old white sandwich bread slices and spread salted butter on one side of each slice. After buttering, spread the chicken filling onto the bread.
Step 5: Trim and Cut the Sandwiches
If desired, remove the crusts from the sandwiches for a more refined “gourmet” presentation. Cut the sandwiches in half diagonally or vertically. For cleaner cuts, refrigerate the assembled sandwiches for a short time to allow the filling to firm up.
Step 6: Serve
Arrange the sandwiches on platters for serving. If desired, garnish with greens to enhance the presentation.
Notes
Filling Quantities
– Deli standard (recommended): Use 100g (1/2 cup) of filling per sandwich, resulting in 10 sandwiches.
– Very generous: For a more substantial sandwich, use 130g (1/2 cup) of filling each, making 8 sandwiches.
– Everyday lunchbox: Opt for a lighter filling of 80g (1/3 cup) per sandwich, which yields 15 sandwiches.
Cook techniques
Shredding Chicken
The most efficient way to shred cooked chicken is by using a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment. Place the cooked chicken meat in the mixer bowl and mix on medium speed for about one minute until it is finely shredded. An alternative method is to use a handheld mixer or simply shred it by hand using two forks.
Mixing Sauce
To achieve a smooth and creamy sauce, combine all the sauce ingredients in a bowl and whisk until well blended. If you encounter clumps, continue mixing until the texture is consistent.
Combining Ingredients
Once the sauce is ready, pour it over the shredded chicken. Add the remaining filling ingredients to the bowl, and stir everything together until evenly combined, ensuring that each piece of chicken is coated.
Butter Spreading Technique
For optimal flavor and texture, spread salted butter evenly on the slices of bread. Ensure the butter is at room temperature for easy spreading, which will help create a smooth layer.
Cutting Sandwiches
If you want to remove the crusts for a gourmet presentation, do so before cutting the sandwiches in half. For cleaner cuts, it is advisable to refrigerate the sandwiches briefly after assembling; this will help the filling set and make slicing easier.
FAQ
Can I use store-bought shredded chicken instead of cooking my own?
Yes, store-bought shredded chicken can be used as a time-saving alternative and will still yield a delicious sandwich.
What can I substitute for walnuts in the filling?
You can replace walnuts with other nuts such as pecans or almonds, or omit them entirely for a nut-free version.
Can I make the filling in advance?
Yes, the chicken filling can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days before assembling the sandwiches.
Is there a substitute for mayonnaise in the sauce?
You may substitute mayonnaise with additional sour cream or a vegan mayo if you prefer a lighter or dairy-free option.
How long will the assembled sandwiches last in the fridge?
Assembled sandwiches are best consumed within one day, but they can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two days. The quality may begin to deteriorate after that.
Conclusion
This chicken sandwich filling combines savory flavors and satisfying textures, making it a delightful option for any meal. The blend of tender chicken, crisp celery, and crunchy walnuts offers a refreshing twist on traditional sandwiches. Perfect for gatherings or everyday lunches, these sandwiches are sure to please everyone.
Chicken Salad Sandwiches
Use shredded rotisserie chicken mixed with mayonnaise and diced vegetables for a classic chicken salad sandwich.
Tuna and Walnut Sandwiches
Substitute the chicken with canned tuna, and keep the walnuts for added crunch. Blend in the same sauce for a delicious variation.
Turkey and Avocado Sandwiches
Swap out the chicken for sliced turkey, and add slices of ripe avocado for a creamy texture and a boost of healthy fats.
Vegetarian Chickpea Salad Sandwiches
Replace chicken with mashed chickpeas and add diced vegetables, mixing them in the same sauce for a vegetarian take.
Curried Chicken Sandwiches
Incorporate curry powder into the sauce and mix in raisins for a sweet and spicy flavor profile.
Smoked Salmon and Cream Cheese Sandwiches
Use smoked salmon paired with cream cheese and dill for an elegant twist, perfect for brunch gatherings.
Pesto Chicken Sandwiches
Mix in some pesto with the chicken filling for a rich, herby flavor that pairs beautifully with the other ingredients.
