The Best Rotisserie Chicken Salad Melt
I created this sandwich when looking for new ways to use leftover rotisserie chicken. The combination of creamy chicken salad with melty cheese on toasty bread creates pure comfort food magic. That touch of Greek yogurt lightens everything up while keeping all the flavors we love. Now it's become our favorite quick meal that feels both satisfying and fresh.
Everything You Want in a Sandwich
What makes this melt so special is how it transforms simple ingredients into something absolutely delicious. The protein packed chicken keeps you satisfied while those melty cheese pulls make every bite exciting. I love serving it with warm tomato soup for the ultimate comfort food experience.
What You'll Need
- Rotisserie Chicken: Makes everything quick and flavorful.
- Greek Yogurt: Our secret to lighter but creamy dressing.
- Mayonnaise: Just enough for classic flavor.
- Lemon Zest: Adds such lovely brightness.
- Dijon Mustard: Gives that perfect tang.
- Celery: For that essential crunch.
- Red Onion: Adds wonderful sharp flavor.
- Whole Wheat Bread: Creates our hearty base.
- American Cheese: Melts like a dream.
- Butter: Makes everything golden brown.
Let's Make Some Melts
- Prepare the Chicken Salad
- Mix all those creamy ingredients with your chicken until perfectly combined.
- Assemble the Sandwich
- Layer everything between your buttered bread slices.
- Cook the Sandwich
- Let them get golden and melty in your skillet.
- Serve
- Cut them diagonally and enjoy while they're hot.
My Best Sandwich Tips
Keep your heat medium low to get that perfect golden crust without burning. Make extra chicken salad ahead it's even better the next day. Sometimes I'll add pickles or cucumber slices for extra crunch they're delicious.
Making It Your Own
Feel free to swap in your favorite cheese cheddar and Swiss work beautifully. Sometimes I'll use turkey or even roasted cauliflower for something different. A sprinkle of garlic powder or smoked paprika adds wonderful flavor.
Keeping It Fresh
The chicken salad keeps nicely in the fridge for about three days. When reheating your sandwiches use a skillet to keep that crispy texture. Skip the microwave it makes the bread soggy.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Why use Greek yogurt in chicken salad?
Greek yogurt adds creaminess and tang while keeping the salad lighter than using all mayonnaise. It also adds protein and helps bind the ingredients.
- → Can I prepare the chicken salad ahead?
Yes, make the chicken salad up to 2 days ahead and store in the fridge. Assemble and grill sandwiches just before serving.
- → Why press the sandwiches while cooking?
Pressing helps melt the cheese evenly and creates better contact with the pan for a crispier exterior.
- → Can I use different cheese?
While American cheese melts perfectly, you can substitute with cheddar, provolone, or Swiss for different flavors.
- → What's the best bread to use?
Whole wheat bread provides good structure and nutrition, but any sturdy sandwich bread that grills well works fine.