Looking for a healthy, filling lunch option? Look no further than chicken salad-sandwiches! At 360 calories per serving, they're a great way to fuel your midday activities.

But not all chicken salad-sandwiches are created equal. You want to get the most nutrition out of your meal, so choose your ingredients carefully. Here, we'll give you some tips on how to make the perfect chicken salad-sandwich.

Whether you're meal prepping for the week ahead, serving a crowd, or just looking for an easy, delicious lunch option, we've got you covered. Read on to learn everything you need to know about chicken salad-sandwiches.

Preparing the chicken salad

First, choose your chicken. You can use shredded rotisserie chicken, grilled chicken breasts, or any kind of leftover cooked chicken. Next, mix it with your preferred dressing. Some popular options include mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, mustard, or pesto. Add in some flavor with herbs and spices. Popular choices include dill, parsley, chives, garlic, and onion powder. Then, mix in some chopped celery, red onion, or sweet relish for crunch and sweetness. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Add salt, pepper, or lemon juice to balance the flavors. And that's it - your chicken salad is ready to be turned into a delicious sandwich!

Choosing the right bread

The bread you choose can make or break your sandwich. For a healthier option, go for whole-grain bread or a wrap. Avoid white bread, which is often high in added sugars and low in fiber. If you're feeling fancy, try a croissant or a baguette. They'll add some buttery flavor and crunch to your sandwich. And if you're avoiding gluten, try a lettuce wrap or a rice wrap instead. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference - choose the bread that you enjoy the most!

Adding vegetables and toppings

To amp up the nutrition factor of your sandwich, add in some veggies. Popular options include lettuce, tomato, cucumber, or avocado. You can also add a slice of cheese or some bacon for extra flavor and protein. If you're trying to keep your calorie count low, skip the cheese and bacon and load up on the veggies instead. They'll give you fiber and vitamins without adding too many extra calories. And don't forget the condiments! Mustard, hot sauce, or hummus are all great options to add some zip to your sandwich.

Serving size and portion control

One serving of chicken salad-sandwich is typically 1/2 cup of chicken salad on 1 slice of bread. However, the size of the bread and the amount of chicken salad can vary depending on your appetite and nutritional needs. To keep your meal within a healthy calorie range, use a food scale or measuring cups to portion out your chicken salad and bread. And don't forget to load up on veggies to keep your meal filling and nutritious!

Variations of chicken salad-sandwiches

There are endless ways to switch up your chicken salad-sandwich so you never get bored. Try adding in some grapes, walnuts, or apples for a sweet twist. Or, swap out the chicken for tuna or egg salad for a different flavor profile. And don't be afraid to play around with different dressings and spices to find your perfect match.

Calorie content in different types of bread

The calories in your bread can vary widely depending on the type you choose. Here's a breakdown of a few popular choices:

• Whole-wheat bread: 100 calories per slice
• Sourdough bread: 120 calories per slice
• Ciabatta bread: 160 calories per slice
• Croissant: 230 calories per serving
• Baguette: 270 calories per serving

Remember to read nutrition labels and choose the bread that fits your nutritional needs and preferences.

Best beverages to pair with chicken salad-sandwiches

Pairing your sandwich with the right beverage can take your lunch to the next level. Water is always a good option, but if you're looking for something with a bit more flavor, try one of these pairings:

• Iced tea
• Lemonade
• Sparkling water with a squeeze of lime
• Smoothie

Just be careful of added sugars in your drink - they can quickly add up to extra calories!

Serving chicken salad-sandwiches for a crowd

If you're serving chicken salad-sandwiches for a group, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, make sure you have enough chicken salad and bread for everyone. Plan about 1/2 cup of chicken salad and 1 slice of bread per person. To keep things easy, set up a DIY sandwich bar with bowls of chicken salad, bread, veggies, and toppings. That way, everyone can make their own sandwich to their liking.

Meal prepping chicken salad for sandwiches

If you want to make your lunch prep a breeze, try meal prepping your chicken salad in advance. Cook your chicken, chop your veggies, and mix your dressing ahead of time. Then, portion out your chicken salad into individual containers and store them in the fridge. When you're ready to make your sandwich, simply grab a container and a slice of bread and you're good to go!

Storing chicken salad for optimal freshness

To keep your chicken salad fresh and delicious, store it in an airtight container in the fridge. It should last up to 3-4 days. Avoid storing your sandwich already assembled, as the bread can get soggy. Instead, pack the components separately and assemble your sandwich just before you're ready to eat it.