Slight changes can give new life to routine chicken sandwiches.
Whether it's left over-chicken or just a craving for poultry, sandwiches are always an option. Unfortunately, when that option turns into a routine, it can easily lose some of its appeal. Because it is a lean protein, chicken is often seen as an alternative to hamburgers or other less healthy foods, making it the preferred choice for lunches or a quick meal. Before making or buying your next chicken sandwich, consider variety.
Avocado Chicken Club Sandwiches
A club sandwich consists of 2 to 3 slices of buttered, toasted bread covered in mayonnaise, layered together with chicken breast, strips of bacon, lettuce leaves and tomato slices. Although there is much speculation regarding the exact origins of this sandwich, one of the first mentions of it dates back to 1898 in the April 6 issue of New York American. Adding mashed avocado in place of the butter on the toasted bread gives the club sandwich new flavor and texture that differs from routine club sandwiches.
Chicken Salad Sandwich Ideas
Add a flavorful twist to traditional chicken salad sandwiches by mixing dried cherries and chopped walnuts into the salad. To make the chicken salad, chop or shred poached or roasted chicken and mix it with mayonnaise, mustard, chopped celery and onion, a splash of white wine or lemon juice, and salt to taste. Stir in the dried cherries and chopped walnuts before letting the salad chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to 1 hour for maximum flavor. Spread the salad on focaccia, a croissant or the bread of your choice.
Another variation on routine chicken salad sandwiches is to use it as the filling for pinwheel sandwiches. Pinwheel sandwiches are petite, and made by spreading a filling on flattened bread. Roll the bread up tightly and cut crosswise into pieces. The cut sandwiches will have a "pinwheel" appearance.
Grilled Chicken Sandwich
Grilled chicken sandwiches are simple sandwiches to make and, due to indoor grills, you can enjoy them all year. They are made using a plain or marinated grilled chicken breast, lettuce, tomato and your choice of cheese on a bun or sandwich bread. Forgo the plain mayonnaise and liven up this type of sandwich by using honey mustard or a chipotle mayonnaise in its place. To add exotic flavor, top the chicken breast with a grilled pineapple round.
Pulled Chicken Sandwich with Root Beer Sauce and Pineapple Coleslaw
Root beer and pineapple coleslaw gives traditional pulled chicken sandwiches a new flavor twist. Instead of buying pre-made barbecue sauce, use root beer or ginger root beer to make your own sauce. Mix ketchup, root beer, apple cider vinegar, dry mustard, packed brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, liquid smoke and salt. Simmer the ingredients in a medium size saucepan and then stir in the shredded chicken until it is completely covered in the sauce. Spoon the warm saucy chicken onto thick rolls, and top it with a sweet pineapple coleslaw and melted Monterey Jack cheese.
Tags: chicken breast, chicken salad, chicken sandwiches, cherries chopped, cherries chopped walnuts, chicken salad sandwiches
