There’s something utterly delightful about biting into a rotisserie chicken salad sandwich on a lazy afternoon, isn’t there? It takes me back to last weekend when we decided to head out for a spontaneous picnic. The kids were running around, laughing under the warm sun, and we all gathered on our favorite checkered blanket, surrounded by a mix of homemade goodies. But, the real showstopper? These Rotisserie Chicken Salad Sandwiches. I swear, I barely had time to blink before they vanished!
We all know the hustle and bustle of preparing for a picnic—packing the essentials, remembering to grab the sunscreen, and ensuring everyone has their favorite snacks. But, what I love about this recipe is how effortlessly it comes together. It’s the kind of dish that saves you time yet never compromises on flavor. Picking up a rotisserie chicken on the way home is a game-changer, and it’s so versatile. Plus, it feels like a little cheat, but whose counting, right?
The first time I made these sandwiches, I was a bit skeptical. Would the store-bought chicken stand up to my family’s taste-test? But paired with the creamy mayo, tangy Dijon mustard, and a pinch of smoked paprika, it was a hit! The eggs bring a hint of richness, while the celery and bell pepper add that much-needed crunch. It reminds me of summers at my grandma’s house, with her always telling me that a bit of crunch makes any sandwich better.
So, if you’re in the mood for something easy yet satisfying, give these sandwiches a whirl. They’re perfect for a picnic, a light lunch, or even a quick dinner. Trust me, you’ll want to make more than you think because they disappear fast! Whether you’re with family or friends, these sandwiches are bound to bring smiles and create memories. Now, let’s dive into making these Rotisserie Chicken Salad Sandwiches!
How to Make Rotisserie Chicken Salad Sandwiches
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Ingredients:
- 6 croissants, split
- 1 store-bought rotisserie chicken (approximately 3 pounds), shredded and roughly chopped
- 1 cup mayo
- 1/3 cup Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 hard-boiled eggs, diced
- 1 celery stalk, chopped
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
Directions:
- Start by taking your rotisserie chicken and shredding it into bite-sized pieces. It’s best if you use your hands; it’s a bit messy, but worth it!
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken with the mayo, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, and garlic powder. Stir until everything is well-coated.
- Add the diced hard-boiled eggs, chopped celery, and bell pepper into the creamy chicken mixture. Mix gently to ensure even distribution.
- Season the mixture with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Give it a little taste test and adjust the seasoning if needed.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for about 30 minutes. This allows all the flavors to meld together beautifully.
- Once your chicken salad is nicely chilled, take a generous scoop and place it onto the bottom half of each split croissant.
- Top with the other half of the croissant, serve immediately, and enjoy!
Customizing Rotisserie Chicken Salad: Alternative Ingredients
If you’re missing an ingredient, or want to try something new, there are plenty of substitutions. Greek yogurt can replace mayo for a lighter version, while honey mustard brings a hint of sweetness instead of Dijon. Swap out celery for radishes or add some chopped pickles for extra tanginess. Experiment and have fun with it!
Best Ways to Store Leftover Rotisserie Chicken Salad Sandwiches
If you’ve made too much, no worries! Store the chicken salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Keep the croissants separate to prevent them from getting soggy. If you’re planning to eat them later, assemble the sandwiches right before you’re ready to enjoy them.
Perfect Pairings for Rotisserie Chicken Salad Sandwiches
These sandwiches pair wonderfully with a light salad or crunchy chips for a delightful meal. Consider serving with a refreshing lemonade or iced tea to complement the flavors. Adding a pickle on the side can also enhance the overall taste experience.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Rotisserie Chicken Salad Sandwiches
To elevate your chicken salad, try roasting the bell pepper before chopping it for a smoky flavor. Always taste and adjust the seasoning; sometimes, a little extra salt or pepper makes a huge difference. For a creamier texture, mash one of the eggs before adding it to the mix. These little tweaks can make your sandwiches shine!
Seasonal Twists for Rotisserie Chicken Salad Sandwiches
In summer, add fresh herbs like basil or dill for a burst of freshness. In fall, a handful of dried cranberries can bring a sweet contrast. During winter, consider adding finely chopped walnuts for a nutty crunch. Springtime calls for a touch of lemon zest to brighten up the flavors. Adapt with the seasons and keep it exciting!
FAQs:
Can I use homemade chicken instead of a store-bought rotisserie chicken?
Absolutely! If you prefer to use homemade chicken, simply bake or boil your chicken until cooked through, then shred it. This way, you can add your own seasoning and have more control over the flavors in your chicken salad.
Can I make this chicken salad sandwich ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken salad in advance. In fact, it often tastes better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld together. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container in the fridge, and assemble the sandwiches when you’re ready to serve.
What type of bread can I use if I don’t have croissants?
If croissants aren’t available, you can use any soft bread like brioche or a good quality sandwich roll. Even a hearty whole-grain bread will work well, adding a different texture and flavor to your sandwich.
How can I make my chicken salad spicier?
To spice things up, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chopped jalapeños to the chicken salad mix. You could also use a spicy mustard in place of the Dijon for an extra kick. Adjust the level of heat to suit your taste preferences.
Can I add fruits or nuts to the chicken salad?
Definitely! Adding fruits like grapes or apple slices can introduce a sweet contrast, while nuts such as almonds or pecans can add a delightful crunch. These additions provide a wonderful balance of flavors and textures that can take your chicken salad to the next level.
Is there a low-calorie version of this sandwich?
For a lighter version, substitute Greek yogurt for half or all of the mayo. You can also use lettuce wraps instead of croissants to cut down on calories. Opt for additional veggies like cucumbers and leafy greens to bulk up the salad without adding extra calories.

Rotisserie Chicken Salad Sandwiches
Equipment
- mixing bowl
- plastic wrap
Ingredients
- 6 pieces croissants split
- 1 3 pound store-bought rotisserie chicken shredded and roughly chopped
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1/3 cup Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 pieces hard-boiled eggs diced
- 1 stalk celery chopped
- 1 piece bell pepper chopped
- to taste Kosher salt
- to taste freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, mix together the shredded rotisserie chicken, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, garlic powder, diced eggs, celery, and bell pepper. Season generously with salt and pepper.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the mixture for about 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- After chilling, scoop the chicken salad onto the split croissants and they are ready to serve.