These Chicken Sandwiches are deli-style favorites that boast a soft, creamy chicken filling made ultra-tender by finely shredding the chicken with a stand mixer or electric beater. Enhanced with a rich yet balanced sauce of mayonnaise and sour cream, along with fresh dill, crunchy walnuts, celery, and a hint of Dijon mustard, they are ideal for gatherings, picnics, work lunches, or just a delicious homemade treat. Easy to make and seriously addictive, they bring gourmet flavor to any table.

Full Recipe: 

Ingredients

500g (1 lb) cooked chicken meat (store-bought rotisserie or homemade)
1 celery stalk, finely diced
1 green onion, finely sliced
¾ cup walnuts, roughly chopped
3 tablespoons finely chopped cornichons or dill pickles
1½ tablespoons finely chopped fresh dill

For the Sauce
⅔ cup whole egg mayonnaise
⅔ cup sour cream (or full-fat yogurt)
2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
1½ tablespoons lemon juice (or white wine vinegar)
½ teaspoon onion powder
¼ teaspoon garlic powder
¾ teaspoon kosher or cooking salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper

For the Sandwiches
Salted butter, for spreading
20 slices white sandwich bread (preferably day-old)

Directions

Step 1: Remove the skin and bones from the chicken and shred the flesh as finely as possible using a stand mixer with the paddle attachment, a handheld mixer, or by hand.
Step 2: In a bowl, whisk together all the sauce ingredients until smooth and creamy.
Step 3: Pour the sauce over the shredded chicken. Add celery, green onion, walnuts, pickles, and dill. Mix well to combine everything evenly.
Step 4: Lightly butter each slice of bread to prevent sogginess.
Step 5: Spread a generous amount of chicken filling onto half of the bread slices, then top with the remaining slices.
Step 6: Trim off the crusts for a classic deli look if desired, then cut each sandwich in half diagonally or into small rectangles.
Step 7: For the neatest cuts, refrigerate assembled sandwiches for at least 2 hours before slicing to allow the filling to firm up.
Step 8: Serve fresh, or cover and refrigerate until ready to enjoy.

Nutrients

Serving Size: 1 sandwich (based on 10 sandwiches)
Calories: Approximately 430 kcal
Carbohydrates: 22g
Protein: 20g
Fat: 30g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Sugar: 4g
Fiber: 2g

The History and Popularity of Chicken Sandwiches

Chicken sandwiches have long been a beloved part of culinary traditions worldwide. In their simplest form, they date back to the invention of the sandwich itself, credited to the Earl of Sandwich in the 18th century. Over time, chicken became a popular filling due to its mild flavor, adaptability, and nutritional value. In the United States, chicken salad sandwiches rose to fame in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, appearing in delis, cafes, and tea rooms. Their combination of tender meat, creamy dressing, and crisp accents made them a versatile favorite. Today, modern versions like these elevate the classic with thoughtful additions like fresh dill, crunchy walnuts, and a balanced sauce that highlights rather than overwhelms the tender chicken.

What Makes These Chicken Sandwiches Special

What truly sets these Chicken Sandwiches apart is the method used to achieve the ultimate texture and flavor. Shredding the chicken finely with a stand mixer or electric beater creates an ultra-soft, almost fluffy filling that melds perfectly with the creamy sauce. The sauce itself is thoughtfully balanced—not too heavy, thanks to the light tang of sour cream or yogurt, and brightened with a hint of lemon juice and Dijon mustard. Add-ins like fresh dill, crisp celery, green onions, tangy pickles, and crunchy walnuts bring complexity and contrast, ensuring that every bite is vibrant, satisfying, and anything but boring. Spread between slices of lightly buttered, tender bread, these sandwiches feel indulgent yet perfectly balanced.

The Importance of High-Quality Ingredients

In a recipe where each component shines, quality ingredients are essential. Using freshly cooked or high-quality store-bought rotisserie chicken ensures that the meat is tender and flavorful. Whole egg mayonnaise provides a rich, creamy base without excessive greasiness, while full-fat sour cream or Greek yogurt adds a slight tang and a lighter mouthfeel. Fresh dill, rather than dried, brings a burst of herby brightness that cuts through the richness. Cornichons or quality dill pickles add acidity and crunch. Choosing a good bakery-style white sandwich bread, preferably a day old for easier handling, results in sandwiches that are sturdy yet melt-in-your-mouth soft.

Why These Chicken Sandwiches Are Perfect for Any Occasion

These Chicken Sandwiches are incredibly versatile, making them ideal for a wide range of occasions. They are a classic choice for picnics, offering an elegant yet easy-to-eat option. They shine at bridal showers, baby showers, and afternoon teas, where their dainty, crustless appearance and delicate flavors fit right in. They are hearty enough for work lunches or casual dinners, providing a satisfying meal without requiring reheating. Their make-ahead nature means they can be assembled a few hours in advance and chilled, ensuring minimal stress when entertaining. Whether cut into elegant fingers for a sophisticated gathering or served as hearty halves for a family lunch, these sandwiches adapt beautifully to any setting.

Health Benefits of Fresh Ingredients and Homemade Preparation

Preparing Chicken Sandwiches from scratch offers numerous health advantages compared to purchasing pre-made versions. You can control the quality of ingredients, opting for lean, hormone-free chicken and avoiding preservatives and additives commonly found in store-bought salads. Using yogurt in place of some or all of the sour cream can boost protein content while reducing fat. Fresh vegetables and herbs like celery, green onions, and dill add vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Walnuts contribute omega-3 fatty acids, known for supporting heart health. By moderating the amount of mayonnaise and balancing the recipe with fresh, nutrient-dense ingredients, these sandwiches offer not just amazing flavor but also nourishing goodness.

Tips for Making the Best Chicken Sandwiches

For the best results, ensure that the chicken is shredded very finely to create a soft, cohesive filling that holds together well. Mixing the sauce thoroughly before combining with the chicken ensures even flavor distribution. Lightly buttering the bread slices prevents them from becoming soggy, especially important if making the sandwiches in advance. Refrigerating the assembled sandwiches before slicing not only firms up the filling for cleaner cuts but also enhances the flavor as the ingredients meld together. Using a sharp serrated knife ensures neat, professional-looking edges. If preparing for a large group, cover the sandwiches with a damp paper towel and plastic wrap to keep them fresh and moist until serving.

Creative Variations of These Chicken Sandwiches

While the classic version is outstanding, there are many ways to customize these Chicken Sandwiches to suit different tastes or dietary needs. Add a handful of dried cranberries for a touch of sweetness and color. Swap the walnuts for toasted pecans or almonds for a different nutty flavor. Introduce spice with a pinch of cayenne pepper or a spoonful of chopped pickled jalapeños. Replace the dill with fresh tarragon or parsley for a different herbaceous note. Use multigrain or whole wheat bread for a heartier, fiber-rich version. For a lower-carb option, serve the creamy chicken salad in lettuce cups instead of between slices of bread. These simple tweaks allow you to keep the recipe exciting and adaptable for any menu.

Perfect Pairings for Chicken Sandwiches

These creamy, savory sandwiches pair beautifully with a variety of sides and beverages. Fresh fruit salads, crisp green salads, or light soups like gazpacho or cucumber yogurt soup complement their richness without overpowering them. Potato chips or vegetable crisps offer a satisfying crunch alongside. For beverages, a lightly sparkling lemonade, iced tea, or a crisp Sauvignon Blanc make perfect companions. For more casual settings, pairing them with a cold craft beer or a refreshing spritz can turn a simple meal into a festive occasion. Their neutral, balanced flavor makes them exceptionally versatile when building a complete meal or buffet spread.

The Enduring Appeal of Deli-Style Chicken Sandwiches

Deli-style chicken sandwiches hold a special place in the culinary world for their comforting familiarity and universal appeal. They represent a blend of wholesome simplicity and gourmet flair, showcasing how everyday ingredients can be elevated through thoughtful preparation. From corner delis to elegant catering spreads, they bridge casual and refined dining effortlessly. Making them at home brings a sense of satisfaction, allowing you to recreate that nostalgic deli experience with fresher ingredients and a personal touch. Their enduring popularity lies in their ability to satisfy cravings for something creamy, flavorful, and deeply comforting, all in a convenient, hand-held form.

Conclusion

These Chicken Sandwiches deliver a perfect blend of creamy, crunchy, tangy, and savory flavors, wrapped up in soft, buttery bread for a truly satisfying experience. Whether enjoyed as part of a picnic, packed into a lunchbox, or served at an elegant gathering, they bring gourmet deli-style flavor with the freshness and quality of homemade preparation. Easy to make, customizable to suit different tastes, and endlessly enjoyable, these sandwiches deserve a spot in your recipe repertoire. With every bite, they offer a reminder that sometimes the simplest dishes, made with care and great ingredients, are the most memorable and delightful.