Chicken salad croissant sandwiches are a perfect mix of creamy, savory, and buttery flavors. They’re quick to make, easy to customize, and ideal for lunch, brunch, or casual gatherings. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or prepping ahead for the week, this recipe delivers every time. Keep reading to learn how to make the best chicken salad croissant from scratch—step by step.

Table of Contents

Introduction to Chicken Salad Croissant Recipe

Chicken salad croissant sandwiches combine tender chicken, creamy dressing, and flaky croissants into a satisfying meal. They strike a balance between comfort food and a touch of elegance—making them just as fitting for a picnic as they are for a baby shower or brunch buffet.

This recipe is easy to adapt. You can use leftover chicken, rotisserie chicken, or freshly baked breasts. Add-ins like grapes, celery, or nuts can give your sandwich a sweet crunch or extra texture.

Croissants elevate this sandwich beyond the usual. Their soft, buttery layers contrast perfectly with the chilled, creamy filling. Plus, they’re ready to use straight from the bakery—no toasting or fuss required.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make the perfect chicken salad croissant sandwich, you’ll need a handful of simple, fresh ingredients. These are divided into three main parts: the chicken salad, the dressing, and the croissant sandwich itself.

For the Chicken Salad:

Cooked Chicken: 2 to 3 cups, shredded or chopped. Rotisserie chicken is convenient and flavorful, but baked or poached chicken works great too.
Celery: 1–2 ribs, finely chopped for crunch.
Red Onion or Green Onion: Finely diced, optional for added sharpness.
Grapes or Dried Cranberries: Optional, for a touch of sweetness.
Chopped Nuts (like pecans or almonds): Optional, for texture and nutty flavor.

For the Dressing:

Mayonnaise: ½ to ¾ cup, depending on your desired creaminess.
Dijon Mustard: 1 teaspoon, for a tangy kick.
Lemon Juice: 1 tablespoon, to brighten the flavor.
Salt & Pepper: To taste.
Garlic Powder or Onion Powder: Optional, for extra seasoning.

For Assembling the Sandwich:

Croissants: 4 to 6 fresh, buttery croissants. Choose large, bakery-style ones for best results.
Lettuce Leaves: Optional, to add freshness and help prevent sogginess.
Cheese Slices: Optional, such as Swiss or provolone, if you’d like a richer sandwich.

Choosing the Right Chicken

The chicken you use makes a big difference in flavor and texture. Here’s how to choose the best option for your chicken salad croissant sandwich.

Best Chicken Options

Rotisserie Chicken

A top choice for convenience and flavor. It’s already cooked, seasoned, and easy to shred. Great for quick meals or last-minute prep.

Baked Chicken Breasts

Lean, mild, and easy to flavor your way. Bake them with olive oil, salt, pepper, and a touch of garlic powder for a clean, simple taste.

Poached Chicken

Moist and tender, especially if you want a neutral base to let the dressing shine. Simmer chicken breasts in water or broth with herbs and a pinch of salt until cooked through.

Leftover Roast Chicken

A great way to use up leftovers. Just make sure it’s not too dry—mixing with dressing helps restore moisture.

How to Bake Chicken Breasts (Optional Method)

If you’re starting from scratch, here’s a simple method for juicy, flavorful baked chicken:

Ingredients:

2–3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt, pepper, garlic powder to taste

Steps:

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
Rub chicken breasts with olive oil and season both sides.
Place on a baking sheet and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Let rest for 5–10 minutes before chopping or shredding.

Shredded vs. Chopped Chicken

Shredded Chicken gives the salad a softer texture and blends well with dressing. Chopped Chicken adds more bite and makes the salad feel hearty. Choose based on your texture preference—either works beautifully in a croissant sandwich.

How to Make Chicken Salad

Making chicken salad is simple, but a few small steps can make a big difference in texture and flavor. Here’s how to do it right, starting from your pre-cooked chicken.

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Before mixing, prep everything so it’s ready to go:

Shred or chop the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
Dice the celery finely for crunch.
Chop red or green onions, if using.
Halve the grapes or measure out other mix-ins like cranberries or nuts.

Step 2: Make the Dressing

In a medium bowl, whisk together:

½ to ¾ cup mayonnaise (adjust to your desired creaminess)
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon lemon juice (fresh if possible)
Salt and black pepper to taste
Optional: a pinch of garlic powder or onion powder for extra flavor

Taste the dressing before mixing it with the chicken—it should be creamy, tangy, and well-seasoned.

Step 3: Combine Everything

In a large mixing bowl:

Add the shredded chicken, celery, onion, and any mix-ins (like grapes or nuts).
Pour the dressing over the mixture.
Gently fold everything together until the chicken is evenly coated.

Be careful not to overmix—you want to keep some texture and avoid turning it into a paste.

Step 4: Chill (Optional but Recommended)

Cover the bowl and refrigerate the chicken salad for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to blend and helps the salad firm up, making it easier to scoop onto croissants.

Quick Tips:

If the salad seems dry after chilling, stir in a little extra mayo or a splash of lemon juice. For added crunch and freshness, fold in ingredients like diced apples or cucumbers just before serving.

Assembling the Croissant Sandwich

Once your chicken salad is prepared and chilled, it’s time to assemble the croissant sandwich. This step is quick and simple but makes all the difference in presentation and taste.

Step 1: Choose Your Croissants

Select fresh, buttery croissants—preferably bakery-style for the best texture. They should be:

Soft but sturdy enough to hold the filling
Slightly flaky and golden on the outside
Medium to large size, depending on serving portions

If your croissants feel too soft or squishy, a quick toast in the oven (at 300°F for 3–5 minutes) can help firm them up slightly without making them crisp.

Step 2: Slice the Croissants

Use a serrated knife to gently slice each croissant horizontally, like a bun. Don’t cut all the way through—leaving a small hinge keeps the sandwich from falling apart and makes it easier to hold.

Step 3: Add a Base Layer (Optional)

To prevent sogginess and add freshness, place a layer of:

Lettuce leaves (like romaine or butter lettuce), or
Sliced cheese (Swiss, cheddar, or provolone)

This creates a barrier between the croissant and the chicken salad.

Step 4: Spoon in the Chicken Salad

Generously scoop ½ to ¾ cup of chicken salad onto the bottom half of the croissant. Use the back of the spoon to gently press it down and spread it evenly. Avoid overfilling—it should be full but not overflowing.

Step 5: Close and Serve

Gently close the croissant over the filling. Serve immediately, or wrap each sandwich tightly in parchment paper if packing for lunch or a picnic.

Make-Ahead Tip:

If prepping ahead, store the chicken salad and croissants separately. Assemble the sandwiches just before serving to keep the croissants from getting soggy.

Variations and Add-ins

One of the best things about chicken salad is how customizable it is. You can tailor the flavor, texture, and even the nutrition to fit your taste or occasion. Below are a variety of creative add-ins and variations you can try to elevate your chicken salad croissant sandwich.

Sweet Add-ins

Adding sweetness offers balance to the savory base:

Red or Green Grapes: Halved for juicy pops of flavor.
Dried Cranberries or Cherries: Add a chewy texture and tart-sweet note.
Diced Apples: Crisp and refreshing, especially green apples for a tangy twist.
Pineapple Tidbits: For a tropical variation (use sparingly).

Crunchy Add-ins

For texture that contrasts the creamy salad and soft croissant:

Chopped Celery: Classic, fresh crunch.
Sliced Almonds or Chopped Pecans: Nutty and rich.
Sunflower Seeds: Small, crunchy, and nut-free.

Savory or Tangy Add-ins

To boost umami or give a flavor punch:

Pickles or Relish: Adds tang and texture.
Capers or Olives: Salty, briny, and bold.
Chopped Fresh Herbs: Dill, parsley, or chives add freshness.
Grainy or Honey Mustard: For depth or subtle sweetness.

Protein Variations

Change up the base for a different flavor or dietary need:

Turkey Salad: A great post-holiday swap.
Tuna or Salmon Salad: Similar method, totally different taste.
Tofu or Chickpeas: For a vegetarian option, mash and season like chicken.

Dressing Swaps

Lighten it up or change the flavor profile:

Greek Yogurt: Replace some or all of the mayo for a tangy, lower-fat version.
Avocado: Mashed avocado creates a creamy, nutritious base.
Ranch or Caesar Dressing: A twist on the classic flavor, great for variety.

Croissant Alternatives (if needed)

Though croissants are the star, here are other bread options if you want to switch it up:

Brioche Buns: Soft, sweet, and sturdy.
Wraps or Tortillas: Great for a lighter handheld meal.
Lettuce Wraps: Low-carb and fresh.

Quick Flavor Combos to Try

Classic: Chicken, celery, grapes, mayo, and pecans
Savory Herb: Chicken, green onions, dill, Dijon mustard
Sweet & Crunchy: Chicken, apples, almonds, dried cranberries
Zesty: Chicken, pickles, capers, lemon juice, garlic powder
Mediterranean: Chicken, olives, feta, cucumber, Greek yogurt

Tips for Success

A few simple tips can take your chicken salad croissant sandwich from good to unforgettable. Whether you’re making a single sandwich or prepping for a crowd, these techniques will help you get the best flavor, texture, and presentation every time.

Preventing a Soggy Croissant

Croissants are soft and delicate, so preventing sogginess is key—especially if you’re not serving immediately.

Layer with lettuce or cheese: Place a piece of lettuce or cheese slice between the croissant and the chicken salad. This barrier helps absorb excess moisture.
Assemble just before serving: Store the salad and croissants separately if preparing in advance.
Use a drier mix: Drain any watery ingredients (like grapes or pickles) and avoid overly thin dressings.

Making It Ahead of Time

Chicken salad actually tastes better after sitting in the fridge—it gives the flavors time to meld.

Make the salad up to 2 days in advance: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Refresh before serving: Stir and taste before serving. Add a spoonful of mayo or lemon juice if it has dried out.
Don’t assemble sandwiches too early: Fill the croissants just before eating for best texture.

Portioning for a Crowd

Hosting a brunch, baby shower, or picnic? Chicken salad croissants are perfect for feeding groups.

Use mini croissants for bite-sized servings. Plan on ½ cup chicken salad per sandwich (more for full-size croissants). Make a DIY sandwich bar Set out croissants, chicken salad, and toppings so guests can assemble their own.

Enhancing Flavor

Season your chicken before adding it to the salad—even leftover or rotisserie chicken benefits from a pinch of salt or pepper. Use fresh lemon juice instead of bottled for a cleaner, brighter taste. Chill before serving This helps the salad set and improves taste and texture.

Tools That Help

Having the right tools can make prep easier:

Serrated knife for cleanly slicing croissants
Mixing bowls in different sizes for easy prep
Ice cream scoop or measuring cup to portion chicken salad evenly

Serving Suggestions

Chicken salad croissant sandwiches are versatile and elegant, making them ideal for a range of meals—from casual lunches to bridal showers. Here’s how to serve them in ways that elevate the experience and satisfy every appetite.

When to Serve Chicken Salad Croissants

Lunch or Light Dinner: Serve with a side salad or soup for a balanced meal.
Brunch Buffets: Pair with fruit, muffins, and mimosas for a classy spread.
Picnics or Potlucks: Pack the chicken salad separately and assemble on-site.
Parties & Showers: Use mini croissants for easy-to-eat finger food.

Presentation Tips

Plating for Individuals: Serve on a small plate with lettuce garnish and a toothpick to hold the sandwich in place.
Buffet Style: Arrange croissants neatly on a platter with a bed of greens underneath. Offer toppings or sides in bowls nearby.
Wrapped for On-the-Go: Wrap sandwiches in parchment paper and tie with twine for a charming, travel-friendly option.

Best Side Dishes to Serve

Complement the rich, creamy texture of the sandwich with light, crisp, or tangy sides:

Fresh Green Salad: With vinaigrette or citrus dressing
Fruit Salad or Grapes: Adds natural sweetness and color
Pasta Salad: A chilled option like Italian or lemon-herb pasta pairs well
Potato Chips or Veggie Chips: Classic crunch factor
Pickles or Pickled Veggies: Cut through the richness with sharp, acidic bites
Tomato Basil Soup: For cooler weather or a comforting combo

Beverage Pairings

Iced Tea or Lemonade Light and refreshing
Sparkling Water with Citrus Simple and clean
White Wine or Rosé For brunch or dinner parties
Coffee or Light Roast Cold Brew Great for brunch settings

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

Chicken salad croissant sandwiches are great for preparing in advance, whether you’re meal prepping for the week or getting ready for a gathering. However, the key to maintaining freshness and texture lies in how you store the components. Here’s how to do it right.

Storing Chicken Salad

Refrigeration:

Store the chicken salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days.
Keep it chilled at or below 40°F (4°C) at all times.

Avoid Freezing:

Mayo-based dressings don’t freeze well—they can separate and become watery when thawed. It’s best to enjoy chicken salad fresh or refrigerated only.

Refreshing Before Use:

If the chicken salad has been stored for a day or two, give it a quick stir. Add a tablespoon of mayo or a squeeze of lemon juice if it looks dry.

Storing Croissants

Short-Term Storage:

Keep croissants in a sealed bag or container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to 5 days, though they may lose some softness.

To Refresh Croissants:

Warm them in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5 minutes to restore their flakiness before assembling sandwiches.

Assembling Ahead

Don’t pre-assemble too early:

For best texture, assemble croissant sandwiches right before serving, especially if storing them for more than a couple of hours. The croissant can absorb moisture from the salad and become soggy.

Workaround:

If you must pre-assemble, add a lettuce or cheese layer between the croissant and the chicken salad to act as a moisture barrier. Wrap tightly in parchment or wax paper, then store in the fridge.

Meal Prep Tips

Portion the chicken salad into containers or jars for grab-and-go meals. Pre-slice the croissants, but keep them in a separate bag to avoid drying out. Ideal for school lunches, office meals, or events—just pack the components separately and assemble when ready to eat.

Leftovers

Chicken Salad Leftovers:

Use any remaining salad as a filling for wraps, on crackers, stuffed in pita bread, or atop mixed greens for a quick chicken salad bowl.

Croissant Leftovers:

Enjoy them with butter and jam for breakfast or use them to make croissant French toast or bread pudding.

Conclusion

In conclusion, chicken salad croissant sandwiches offer the perfect balance of creamy, savory filling and buttery, flaky bread—making them a standout choice for any meal or occasion. With endless customization options, simple prep, and make-ahead convenience, they’re as practical as they are delicious. Whether you’re serving a crowd or just treating yourself, this recipe delivers comfort, elegance, and flavor in every bite.

Chicken Salad Croissant Recipe

Discover the best chicken salad croissant recipe with a perfect blend of creamy chicken, crisp veggies, and buttery croissants—ideal for lunch or brunch!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 4

Cook Time 8

Total Time 8 4

Servings: 8

Course: Appetizer, Salad

Cuisine: American

Ingredients Method

Ingredients

1 ½ pounds cooked shredded chicken
1 ½ cups chopped celery
1 ½ cups red grapes halved
2 green onions thinly sliced
1 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup sour cream or ranch dressing
2 Tablespoons fresh dill chopped
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
juice of 1 small lemon
8 croissants

Method

Add the shredded chicken, celery, grapes, and green onion to a large bowl. Toss to combine. Set bowl aside.
In a small bowl, add the mayonnaise, sour cream, dill, salt, pepper, and lemon juice. Whisk together until combined. Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture. Stir until combined.
Cover and refrigerate at least 4 hours.
Slice each croissant roll in half. Spread 1/2 cup of chicken salad over bottom half. Top with the other half. Serve and enjoy!Add the shredded chicken, celery, grapes, and green onion to a large bowl. Toss to combine. Set bowl aside.
In a small bowl, add the mayonnaise, sour cream, dill, salt, pepper, and lemon juice. Whisk together until combined. Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture. Stir until combined.
Cover and refrigerate at least 4 hours.
Slice each croissant roll in half. Spread 1/2 cup of chicken salad over bottom half. Top with the other half. Serve and enjoy!