Chicken Salad Sandwich Recipe

Prepare miso-ginger marinade

In a medium bowl, whisk together white miso paste, grated ginger, soy sauce, rice wine vinegar, honey, and neutral oil until smooth. This creates a thin paste that will flavor the chicken.

Marinate and cook chicken

Pat the chicken thighs dry and season lightly with 1/4 tsp kosher salt and a pinch of pepper. Place the thighs in the marinade, coating both sides. Let sit at room temperature 10 minutes (or refrigerate up to 2 hours). Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add a small nonstick spray or 1 tsp oil if needed. Sear chicken 4-5 minutes per side until an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) is reached and the exterior is golden with some caramelization. Remove from heat and let rest 5 minutes.

Shred and dress chicken

Using two forks or your hands once cool enough, shred the chicken into bite-size pieces. In a large mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, Greek yogurt (if using), sesame oil, lime juice, remaining 3/4 tsp kosher salt, and 1/2 tsp black pepper. Stir until smooth and emulsified. Add the shredded chicken and toss to coat evenly with the dressing.

Fold in the grated carrot, sliced green onion, diced celery (if using), chopped cilantro (if using), and toasted sesame seeds into the dressed chicken. Taste and adjust seasoning — add up to 1/2 tsp more salt or a squeeze of lime if desired. Chill the mixture 10–15 minutes to let flavors meld (optional).

Prepare the telera rolls: slice each roll horizontally. Spread a thin layer of softened butter on cut sides and toast in a skillet over medium heat or under a broiler until lightly golden and crisp, about 1–2 minutes per side.

To assemble sandwiches, place a handful (about 1/2 cup) of mixed salad greens on the bottom half of each toasted telera. Spoon roughly 3/4 to 1 cup of the miso-ginger chicken salad onto the greens (adjust to preference). Add sliced cucumber if using, then top with the other half of the roll.

Serve immediately. Leftover chicken salad keeps refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days.