Wednesday, June 10, 2009

The Quintessential Chicken Salad Sandwich


I've neglected my post this week because my fourth son got married. After his mission, he didn't want anything to do with living at home--he rented an apartment and stayed closely attached to his high school sweetheart. This is the fifth wedding in our family, and you'd think I'd have it figured out by now--or be more relaxed. Now I know why I was sent five sons instead of five daughters. I have two daughters, and only one of them still needs marrying off, and that won't be for a few years yet. (That's my sigh of relief.)


Here's a recipe that I always get compliments on, and I've served it at my last two weddings--once for my daughter's reception, then recently for a family luncheon to get acquainted with the newest additions to our family. You can either use cooked chicken or turkey with equally good results.


The Quintessential Chicken Salad Sandwich

6 lb. boneless skinless chicken breast (boiled and cubed)
1-2 lb bacon, chopped, cooked and drained (I use real pre-cooked bacon bits)
2 small cans of smoke house almonds, chopped
2 bunches celery, chopped fine
1 qt mayonnaise & ¾ C. lemon juice—mix and pour over other ingredients
Chill and serve on rolls or croissants

It’s a sandwich with more flare and flavor than ordinary chicken and mayo. Add a scoop to a croissant, and you’ve got the perfect luncheon fare for a wedding, bridge group, or something simple to impress the in-laws.

I’ve had this recipe for over 5 years, and I’ve never made it without compliments and requests for the recipe. It’s especially easy when using the real, pre-cooked bacon bits. The almonds give it—mmmm, it’s making me hungry just writing about it. My preference is a simple dinner roll—I don’t need a fancy croissant—just give me the basics.

4 comments:

Valerie Ipson said...

Chicken Salad Sandwiches are seriously my most favorite thing (to eat) ever. I can't wait to try this recipe. It's making me hungry just writing about it, too!!!

Valerie Ipson said...

Me, again. I just printed the recipe so I can buy the ingredients needed and just realized, whoa, this will feed a ton. I will have to pare it down for my family. :) How many does this recipe feed?

Tina Scott, author, artist said...

Valerie,
I'm not sure what the service is since the recipe was given to me verbally. One zip-lock bag of meat makes two large salad bowls of finished product. I think one bowl would serve 12-15. One bowl would be adequate for a large family to have seconds and possibly thirds.

Valerie Ipson said...

I made it a couple of nights ago for dinner and LOVED it. Chicken Salad Sandwiches is just one of those things I can eat and eat and almost never feel full. Thanks for the recipe, Tina!