In Richmond, the some of the worst chicken salad sandwiches I've come across can be found at Joe's Inn or Robin Inn. The best, has always been Montana Gold Bread Company in Carytown. Flavorful, curious in texture, and balanced with all the right seasonings and accompaniments (how thin they slice the tomatoes and cucumbers, oh my! - with just the right amount of dark meat and mayo). Way to go Montana Gold! Try it on challah bread and your lunch break will be heavenly. The runner up is Cafe Cattura with their curried chicken salad always being so moist and freshly made. The right amount of crunchiness from the walnuts is a nice perk. Hands down, my ultimate favorite chicken salad experience was at the Homestead in Hot Springs, Virginia. Their Casino Club Restaurant does it right in the form of the "Waldorf" Chicken Salad Wrap. With juicy apples, dried cherries and richly flavored chicken, it's hard to forget.
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| My Curry/Mango Chicken Salad Ingredients: chicken breasts, diced celery, chopped red onion, roasted walnuts, cranberries, madras curry powder, mango chutney, celery seed, mayonnaise, salt & pepper |
The other day I decided to make my own. It was raining, a Fresh Air podcast with Terry Gross was droning in the back ground, tea was brewing, and I had just returned from the grocery store (always a good time). The key for me has always been slowly simmering my chicken breasts. I created a seasoned brine of minced garlic, salt, pepper, a bay leaf, and some dry tarragon.
There are plenty of recipes you can find. I chose from a variety when crafting my chicken salad. One great recipe I found from my fellow blogger Danielle can be found at her site, My Vermont Kitchen.
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| The final product (sorry for the lack of presentation, in the mixing bowl!) |
With Terry still droning, I toasted some whole grain pepridge farm bread, got a slice of tomato, a leaf of romaine, and enjoyed a great sandwich - all accomplished within an hour. Chicken salad craving fulfilled.
