Avocado Chicken Salad Sandwich

The avocado chicken salad sandwich is a delicious and nutritious lunch or snack option that comes together in just minutes. Layering seasoned chicken salad and creamy avocado slices between two slices of bread creates a satisfying sandwich experience you'll want to make again and again.

Ingredients

To make avocado chicken salad sandwiches you'll need:

• Chicken breast
• Mayonnaise
• Celery
• Green onions
• Lemon juice
• Dijon mustard
• Garlic powder
• Salt and pepper
• Avocado
• Bread
• Lettuce

For the Chicken Salad:

You'll need cooked and chopped chicken breast, mayonnaise, chopped celery, sliced green onions, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

For Assembling the Sandwiches:

You'll need avocado slices, bread of choice, and lettuce.

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

Start by cooking 1-2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts until fully cooked. The chicken can be baked, grilled, or poached. Make sure to use thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165F.

Once cooked through, let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before chopping into bite-sized pieces.

Tips for Cooking Chicken Breasts:

• Pound chicken to an even thickness so it cooks evenly
• Don't overcook - aim for 165F internal temperature
• Let chicken rest before chopping to allow juices to redistribute

Step 2: Make the Chicken Salad

In a large bowl, combine the chopped cooked chicken breast with mayonnaise, chopped celery, sliced green onions, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

Stir to thoroughly combine. Taste and season further with salt, pepper, lemon juice as desired. The chicken salad can be made 1-2 days in advance and stored covered in the refrigerator until ready to use.

Tips for Seasoning Chicken Salad:

• Start with 1/4 cup mayonnaise per 1 lb chicken
• Add mustard, lemon, and garlic powder for flavor
• Chopped celery adds crunch
• Green onions provide fresh onion flavor
• Season with salt, pepper, extra lemon to taste

Step 3: Slice Avocados

Halve 1-2 ripe avocados lengthwise and remove pits. Use a spoon to scoop the avocado flesh from the peel into slices.

The avocado slices should be about 1/4 inch thick. Squeeze a bit of lemon juice over the avocado slices to help prevent browning.

Tips for Choosing Ripe Avocados:

• Look for avocados that yield slightly when gently pressed
• Avoid overly firm or mushy avocados
• Green unripe avocados can be ripened at home
• Store ripe avocados in the refrigerator

Step 4: Assemble the Sandwiches

To assemble the avocado chicken salad sandwiches:

1. Spread chicken salad evenly over one slice of bread
2. Top chicken salad with lettuce leaves
3. Arrange avocado slices evenly over lettuce
4. Top with second slice of bread

Gently press the sandwich to adhere the layers. Slice sandwiches in half diagonally to serve.

Serving Suggestions:

• Try different types of bread like sourdough, wheat, or rye
• Add tomatoes, sprouts, or onions for extra flavor
• Serve sandwiches with potato chips or a side salad
• Pack sandwiches in lunchboxes with an ice pack

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Yes, shredded rotisserie chicken works great in this recipe. Just make sure to remove the skin before making the salad.

Can I prepare the chicken salad ahead of time?

Absolutely. The chicken salad can be made 1-2 days in advance. Store covered in the refrigerator until ready to assemble sandwiches.

What's the best way to ripen avocados?

To ripen avocados, place them in a paper bag together at room temperature for 2-3 days. The trapped ethylene gas will help them ripen quicker.

How can I keep the bread from getting soggy?

Use lettuce leaves as a moisture barrier between the chicken salad and bread. You can also lightly toast the bread or use a water-resistant bag for storage.

Can I freeze the chicken salad?

Yes, the chicken salad freezes well for up to 3 months. Portion it out into airtight containers before freezing. Defrost in the refrigerator before using.

Conclusion

The avocado chicken salad sandwich is the perfect blend of flavors and textures. Chicken salad made with celery, green onions, lemon, and Dijon mustard gets a creaminess boost from avocado slices. Served between two slices of toasted bread and crisp lettuce leaves, this sandwich makes for a satisfying lunch or light dinner.

Chicken salad can be prepared in advance and avocados last a few days once ripened, so the components come together quickly. Experiment with different add-ins like cheese, bacon, or pickles to customize to your liking. Packed with protein, healthy fats, and flavor, this sandwich will never get boring!