Chicken Salad Tea Sandwiches
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Chicken Salad Tea Sandwiches are a fun snack for any gathering. Whether you’re hosting a baby shower, tea party, or just want a light lunch with a little flair, these dainty sandwiches are always the perfect choice.
These simple tea sandwiches are made with tender chicken, creamy dressing, and just the right crunch. They’re so easy to prepare and are exquisitely delicious.
These small snack bites are the perfect option for baby or bridal showers, tea parties or potlucks, or just for when you want a small nosh to carry you through the day.
These are budget friendly, economical to make, and a great way to use up leftover chicken. These festive and fun sized sandwiches are perfect for kids’ lunchboxes too!
Why You’ll Love Chicken Salad Tea Sandwiches
- Perfectly Petite – This is a delicious, festive small bite sandwich when you want a delicious snack or appetizer.
- Budget-Friendly – These tiny tea sandwiches are easy and economical to make. Great way to use up leftover chicken.
- Versatile – Great for showers, outside parties, and even kids’ lunch boxes too.
Chicken Salad Ingredients
This simple chicken salad is made using fresh ingredients you might already have on hand.
- Cooked chicken – finely chopped
- Mayonnaise – regular or low fat mayo can be used
- Dijon mustard – optional, but adds great flavor
- Celery – minced
- Fresh dill – I prefer to use fresh, but you could use dried in a pinch
- Lemon juice – from fresh lemons
- Butter (optional) – soft for spreading
- Salt and pepper
- White bread – or other soft bread
Equipment Needed To Make
Large bowl
Serrated knife
Substitutions & Alterations
- You can add some chopped grapes, pecans or walnuts to the chicken mixture for added flair.
- You can sub soft wheat bread or small croissants for the white bread.
- Feel free to add more herbs like parsley, thyme, or tarragon to the mix. You can also add chives or minced onion for a more zesty or savory flavor profile.
- Top with sliced cucumber, fresh dill, or finely chopped celery leaves.
How to Make Chicken Salad Sandwiches
See the recipe card at the bottom of the post for complete instructions.
Step 1 – Mix chopped chicken and other ingredients (except bread and butter in a bowl)
Step 2 – Mix until blended.
Step 3 – Spread soft butter on bread.
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Step 4 – Add chicken salad mixture to bread.
Step 5 – Top with second slice of bread and slice into small sandwiches.
Serve as is or pair with a soup or salad.
Time Saving Tips & Tricks
- Use soft, fresh bread. I prefer white bread, but you can use wheat – just make sure the bread is soft enough to trim easily.
- Use rotisserie chicken or canned chicken to save some time.
- Make ahead: You can prepare the chicken salad up to 2 days in advance. Assemble the sandwiches a few hours before serving.
- Use a serrated knife and wipe between cuts for clean slices.
- Keep sandwiches covered with a damp paper towel or saran wrap if storing briefly before serving.
How to Serve Tea Sandwiches
Top sandwiches with a thin slice of cucumber or a sprig of fresh dill if desired.
These go great with a Bacon, Lettuce and Tomato Green Salad, Quiche, or a simple cup of Vegetable Soup.
For an event or fancy gathering, you can use shaped cookie cutters to create cute sandwich shapes like these Flower Shaped Egg Salad Sandwiches.
How to Store Leftover Chicken Salad Sandwiches
Store any leftover sandwiches in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Eat within 3-5 days.
Recipe FAQs
Can I use canned chicken?
Yes! While freshly cooked or rotisserie chicken gives the best texture, canned chicken works in a pinch. Just be sure to drain it well and shred the chicken before mixing.
What’s the best way to cut sandwiches neatly?
Use a sharp, serrated knife and cut straight down pulling in one smooth motion without sawing back and forth. Wipe the blade between cuts for clean edges, especially if you’re removing crusts or cutting shapes.
More Great Sandwich Recipes
- Monterey Chicken Sandwich
- Classic Egg Salad
- Muffuletta – a New Orleans classic!
- Homemade Philly Cheesesteak
More Tea Party Food
Chicken Salad Tea Sandwiches
Equipment
- Bowl
- knife
Ingredients
- 2 cups finely chopped poached chicken about 8 chicken tenderloins
- 2 to 3 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard optional
- 1 tablespoon finely minced celery
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh dill
- 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 12 slices soft white bread crusts removed
- Butter optional
Instructions
- Directions:
- In a medium bowl, combine the mayonnaise, Dijon (if using), lemon juice, celery, dill, salt, and pepper. Add chopped chicken and stir gently until evenly coated. Chill if time allows.
- Spread a thin layer of butter on each bread slice if desired. Add about 3 tablespoons of chicken salad to 6 of the slices, spreading evenly to the edges. Top with remaining slices and press gently.
- Slice each sandwich into 3 fingers or 4 triangles. Serve immediately or chill until ready to serve in an airtight container.
Notes
Nutrition
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These were great – fun for a tea party!