Balsamic Chicken Salad Sandwiches

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If you’re on the hunt for a fresh, vibrant, and delicious sandwich option, look no further than these Balsamic Chicken Salad Sandwiches! This recipe is the perfect combination of crunchy, sweet, and savory, all wrapped up in a warm pretzel roll. Whether you’re serving it for lunch, a picnic, or a light dinner, this chicken salad sandwich is sure to impress your family and friends.

Each bite features juicy grilled chicken breast tossed with crisp apple, creamy feta, and honey-glazed walnuts, all brought together by a tangy balsamic dressing. Not only is it bursting with flavor, but it’s also incredibly easy to whip up. Let’s dive into why this recipe is a must-try!

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

Balsamic Chicken Salad Sandwiches are not just delicious; they’re also unbelievably versatile. The crunchy apples and walnuts add an element of texture, while the dried cranberries provide sweetness that balances the savory elements perfectly. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover grilled chicken or make a meal prep dish that stays fresh in the fridge. Best of all, it’s simple enough that even novice cooks can create a dish that feels gourmet.

Ingredients

• 1 lb Grilled Chicken Breast, cubed
• 1 Large Granny Smith Apple, cubed
• 1 C Dried Cranberries
• ¾ C Crumbled Feta Cheese
• ¾ C Honey-Glazed Walnuts, chopped
• ½ Small Red Onion, finely diced
• ½ C Mayonnaise
• 2 Tbsp White Balsamic Vinegar
• 1 Tbsp Granulated Sugar
• Kosher Salt, to taste
• Cracked Pepper, to taste
• 8 Pretzel Rolls

How To Make Balsamic Chicken Salad Sandwiches

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start with your grilled chicken breast. If you don’t have any pre-cooked, simply grill or pan-sear the chicken breast until it’s fully cooked through. You can season the chicken with your favorite spices or just a little salt and pepper. Once cooked, let it rest for a few minutes, then cut it into small, dice-sized cubes.

Step 2: Combine the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cubed chicken, chopped Granny Smith apple, dried cranberries, crumbled feta cheese, chopped honey-glazed walnuts, and finely diced red onion. This colorful mixture will be the star of your sandwich!

Step 3: Make the Dressing

In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, white balsamic vinegar, granulated sugar, kosher salt, and cracked pepper. This creamy dressing will not only keep the salad moist but will also tie all the flavors together beautifully.

Step 4: Mix It All Together

Pour the dressing over the chicken salad mixture and gently fold everything together until all the ingredients are coated. Be mindful not to overmix, as you want to preserve the chunky texture of the ingredients.

Step 5: Assemble the Sandwiches

Take your pretzel rolls and slice them in half. Scoop a generous portion of the chicken salad onto the bottom half of each roll and top it with the other half of the roll. For added flair, you can serve these sandwiches with a side of mixed greens or kettle-cooked chips.

Expert Tips

• For the best flavor, let the chicken salad chill in the fridge for at least an hour before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
• If you prefer a creamier dressing, use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise or in combination with it for a tangy twist.
• Feel free to substitute the Granny Smith apple with any crisp apple variety you prefer for an extra bit of sweetness.
• To make this dish even more filling, you can add sliced avocado or a handful of spinach to the sandwiches.

Variations and Customizations

• Swap out the raisins for chopped dates or candied ginger for a different sweetness profile.
• Instead of chicken breast, you could use shredded rotisserie chicken for a quicker option.
• Add in some chopped celery or cucumber for additional crunch and freshness.
• To make it a bit more savory, consider incorporating fresh herbs such as basil or dill into the salad.

How to Store Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftover chicken salad, transfer it to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, you can serve it cold or let it come to room temperature. If you anticipate having leftovers, consider storing the salad mixture and rolls separately to keep the rolls from getting soggy.

FAQ

Can I use different nuts in this recipe?

Absolutely! If you’re not a fan of walnuts, feel free to substitute them with pecans, almonds, or even sunflower seeds for a nut-free option.

What can I serve with these sandwiches?

These sandwiches pair wonderfully with a simple side salad, veggie sticks with hummus, or even a bowl of soup for a heartier meal.

Can I make this chicken salad ahead of time?

Yes, this chicken salad can be made a day ahead of time. Just be sure to keep it refrigerated, and it will taste even better after it sits for a while!

Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?

Certainly! You can replace the grilled chicken with chickpeas or a mix of your favorite roasted vegetables for a tasty vegetarian version of this salad.

Conclusion

There you have it—Balsamic Chicken Salad Sandwiches that are not just a feast for the taste buds but also a colorful addition to your dining table! These sandwiches are packed with flavor, texture, and wholesome ingredients that make them a fantastic choice for any meal. Whether you’re hosting a casual gathering or just enjoying a quiet dinner at home, this chicken salad is sure to be a hit. Enjoy the delightful combination of flavors, and don’t be surprised if you find yourself coming back for seconds!