Description
Classic Chicken Salad Tea Sandwiches
Ingredients
2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
1/4 cup mayonnaise
1 tbsp Dijon mustard
1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
1/4 cup celery, finely chopped
1/4 cup cucumber, thinly sliced
1/4 tsp garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
8 slices white or whole-grain sandwich bread
Butter or cream cheese for spreading (optional)
Directions
Make the chicken salad: In a large bowl, mix shredded chicken, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, parsley, celery, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Prep the bread: Lightly butter or spread cream cheese on one side of each bread slice (optional for added flavor).
Assemble the sandwiches: Add a layer of chicken salad onto four slices of bread. Top with thinly sliced cucumber and place another bread slice on top.
Cut and serve: Trim the crusts off for a traditional tea sandwich look, then cut each sandwich into halves or quarters.
Plate and enjoy: Stack sandwiches neatly on a platter and serve with tea or your favorite drink!
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes (using pre-cooked chicken)
Total Time: 10 minutes
Servings: 4 (makes 8 small sandwiches)
Calories: ~250 kcal per sandwich
#TeaTimeDelights #ChickenSaladSandwich #EasyRecipes #FingerFood #ClassicSandwich #AfternoonTea #Foodie
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect tea sandwiches every time. First, ensure your cooked chicken is cooled completely. Shred it finely using two forks or dice it into small, uniform pieces. In your mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise and Dijon mustard thoroughly before adding the chicken. This ensures even distribution. Gently fold in the parsley, celery, and garlic powder. Season with salt and pepper, then refrigerate the mixture for at least 15 minutes to allow flavors to meld. For assembly, use slightly stale bread or toast it lightly for easier handling. Spread a very thin layer of butter or cream cheese to create a moisture barrier. Add the chicken salad, then layer cucumber slices. Gently press the top slice, crust-side up, before trimming. Use a long, serrated knife in a gentle sawing motion for clean cuts.
Serving Suggestions
Present these dainty sandwiches on a tiered cake stand for an authentic afternoon tea. Garnish the platter with fresh parsley sprigs, lemon wedges, or edible flowers. They pair beautifully with classic black teas like Earl Grey or Darjeeling, or a refreshing herbal iced tea. For a larger spread, serve alongside other tea sandwich varieties (like cucumber or egg salad), scones with clotted cream, and petite desserts.
How-to Summary
In summary: mix cooled, shredded chicken with mayo, mustard, herbs, and seasoning. Chill briefly. Spread optional butter on bread, add chicken salad and cucumber, top with second bread slice. Trim crusts and cut into neat triangles or fingers. Serve immediately or cover with a damp cloth to prevent drying.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make the chicken salad ahead of time? Yes, the chicken salad can be prepared and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Assemble the sandwiches just before serving to prevent soggy bread.
What’s the best chicken to use? Leftover roasted or grilled chicken breast works wonderfully for its flavor and lean texture. You can also use a store-bought rotisserie chicken for ultimate convenience.
How do I keep the sandwiches from getting soggy? The thin layer of butter or cream cheese acts as a crucial barrier. Also, ensure your chicken salad is not overly wet, and pat the cucumber slices dry with a paper towel.
Can I use something instead of mayonnaise? For a lighter version, substitute Greek yogurt or a half-and-half mix of mayo and yogurt. The flavor will be tangier but still delicious.
How far in advance can I assemble them? For best results, assemble no more than 2-3 hours ahead. Store them in a single layer on a tray, covered tightly with plastic wrap, in the refrigerator.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using warm chicken, which can make the salad watery and spoil quickly.
- Over-mixing the chicken salad, which can break down the chicken into a mushy paste.
- Skipping the butter/cream cheese layer, leading to soggy bread.
- Using a dull knife to cut, which will crush the delicate sandwiches instead of slicing cleanly.
- Overfilling the sandwiches, making them difficult to cut neatly and eat politely.
Conclusion
Classic Chicken Salad Tea Sandwiches are a timeless and elegant addition to any gathering, from a formal afternoon tea to a casual bridal shower. By following this enhanced guide, you can master the simple techniques that elevate them from a basic sandwich to a refined finger food. Remember the key steps: a well-seasoned and chilled filling, the moisture barrier on the bread, and clean, precise cutting. With this reliable recipe and tips in hand, you’re ready to create a beautiful, delicious treat that is sure to impress your guests.