Hot Chicken Salad French Bread Sandwiches

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Hot Chicken Salad French Bread Sandwiches are incredibly easy to make and pack a lot of flavor into every bite. The creamy combination of mayonnaise, sour cream, and garlic salt coats the shredded chicken beautifully, while the green onions and dried parsley add a touch of freshness. As the sandwiches bake, the cheese melts perfectly over the chicken, creating a warm, gooey texture that’s simply irresistible. With French bread acting as the base, the sandwiches offer the perfect balance of crispy crust and soft, savory filling.

Ingredients

• 1 loaf French bread
• 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
• 2 cups shredded cheese (any variety)
• ½ cup mayonnaise
• ½ cup sour cream
• ¼ cup sliced green onions
• 2 tablespoons dried parsley
• ½ teaspoon garlic salt

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Slice the French bread in half lengthwise, creating two long sandwich halves.
3. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the shredded chicken, mayonnaise, sour cream, sliced green onions, dried parsley, and garlic salt. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly incorporated.
4. Spread the chicken salad mixture evenly over the cut sides of the French bread.
5. Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the chicken salad.
6. Place the two halves of the French bread on a baking sheet, cheese side up.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the bread is golden brown.
8. Remove from the oven, slice into individual sandwiches, and serve warm.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes 4-6 servings, depending on the size of the sandwiches. The total preparation and cooking time is around 20 minutes, with 5 minutes for prep and 12-15 minutes for baking.

Variations

• Add Vegetables: For extra crunch and flavor, you can add chopped celery or bell peppers to the chicken salad mixture.
• Spicy Chicken Salad: For a little heat, stir in some chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.
• Herb Variation: Try adding fresh herbs like dill, thyme, or parsley for a different flavor profile.
• Cheese Variation: Experiment with different cheeses like cheddar, Swiss, or mozzarella for a new twist.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftover chicken salad mixture can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. If you have leftover sandwiches, store them in an airtight container as well for up to 2 days.
• Reheating: To reheat, place the sandwiches on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the bread is warm. You can also microwave individual portions for about 1-2 minutes.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of bread for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute French bread with other types of bread, such as a baguette, hoagie rolls, or even sandwich buns. Just make sure the bread is sturdy enough to hold the filling.

Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?

Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and works perfectly for this recipe. Just shred the chicken and mix it with the other ingredients.

Can I make the chicken salad mixture in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken salad mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to make the sandwiches, simply assemble and bake them.

Can I freeze the sandwiches?

While the chicken salad mixture can be frozen for later use (for up to 2-3 months), it’s best to bake the sandwiches fresh. Freezing the assembled sandwiches may result in a soggy texture when reheated.

Can I make this recipe without mayonnaise or sour cream?

Yes, you can substitute the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter version, and you can use a non-dairy sour cream if preferred. You can also try using avocado for a creamy texture.

Can I add more cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to add more cheese if you want extra gooey goodness. A mix of cheeses, like mozzarella and cheddar, can create a deliciously melty filling.

How do I prevent the bread from getting soggy?

To keep the bread from getting soggy, be sure to bake the sandwiches immediately after assembling. You can also toast the bread lightly before adding the chicken salad to help create a sturdier base.

Can I use low-fat versions of the mayonnaise or sour cream?

Yes, you can use low-fat or fat-free versions of mayonnaise and sour cream if you’re looking to make a lighter version of this recipe. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious.

Can I make mini sandwiches?

Yes, you can slice the French bread into smaller pieces to create mini sandwiches. This is a great idea for appetizers or snacks, and the baking time will be slightly shorter—around 8-10 minutes.

How can I make these sandwiches more flavorful?

To add more flavor, you can season the chicken salad with additional spices like paprika, mustard powder, or a squeeze of lemon juice. You can also experiment with different cheeses and toppings.

Conclusion

Hot Chicken Salad French Bread Sandwiches are a perfect balance of creamy chicken salad and melty cheese, all tucked into a crispy, flavorful loaf of French bread. Whether you’re serving them for a cozy dinner, lunch, or a fun party appetizer, these sandwiches are sure to be a hit with everyone. Easy to prepare, customizable, and incredibly satisfying, this recipe will quickly become a go-to for busy weeknights and gatherings alike.

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