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Basil Chicken Salad Sandwich – The Best Healthy Work Lunch

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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings 4 servings

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups cooked chicken, chopped or shredded (rotisserie chicken works great)
  • 1/3 cup plain Greek yogurt (2% or whole for creaminess)
  • 2 tablespoons mayonnaise (or more yogurt if you prefer)
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice, plus more to taste
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional but excellent)
  • 1/2 cup celery, finely chopped
  • 2 green onions, thinly sliced (or 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced)
  • 1/3 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped (loosely packed)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 8 slices hearty whole-grain or sourdough bread, or 4 rolls
  • Lettuce or spinach leaves, for layering
  • Optional add-ins: 1/4 cup chopped toasted almonds or walnuts, 1/4 cup halved grapes, 1 small cucumber thinly sliced, tomato slices, avocado

Instructions
 

  • Prep the dressing: In a medium bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, Dijon, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. The mixture should taste bright and a little tangy.
  • Add the mix-ins: Stir in the celery and green onions. If using nuts or grapes, fold them in now so they’re evenly distributed.
  • Fold in the chicken: Add the chopped or shredded chicken and mix until it’s well coated but not mashed. You want distinct pieces of chicken for the best texture.
  • Add the herbs: Gently fold in the chopped basil and parsley. Taste and adjust with more salt, pepper, or lemon juice. The basil should be fragrant and fresh without overpowering.
  • Toast the bread: Lightly toast your bread or warm your rolls. This adds crunch and helps prevent sogginess once assembled.
  • Assemble the sandwiches: Layer lettuce or spinach on the bottom slice to create a barrier. Spoon on a generous amount of chicken salad. Add optional toppings like cucumber, tomato, or avocado. Cap with the top slice.
  • Pack for lunch: If taking to work, wrap the sandwich tightly or pack the chicken salad separately with bread and greens to assemble later. Add a lemon wedge if you like a fresh squeeze right before eating.