Chicken Salad Sandwich Filling Recipe (Gluten-Free, Nut-Free)
If your gluten-free sandwich game is feeling a little… boring, this quick and easy chicken salad sandwich filling is a total lunchbox win. It’s creamy (but not soggy), packed with protein, nut-free, and totally school-safe – making it one of our go-to sandwich fillings.
This recipe is perfect for families looking for gluten free sandwich fillings that actually work with gluten-free bread – no falling apart, no dry mouthfuls, and definitely no lunchtime leftovers in the lunchbox. It’s also a great option for gluten free mini sandwiches or even sandwich skewers if you’re after something a bit more fun.
Why This Chicken Salad Works So Well
One of the biggest complaints about gluten-free sandwiches is the bread – it can be dry or crumbly, especially in lunchboxes. That’s why your sandwich filling needs to do the heavy lifting – adding moisture, flavor, and texture, without turning the bread soggy.
This one’s a winner because it is:
- Nut-free and lunchbox safe
- Creamy, thick texture that stays put
- Packed with protein
- It can be made the night before
- The filling is creamy, but not wet, reducing the risk of sogginess
- Great in wraps, sliders, on rice cakes, or on sandwich sticks
- Perfectly balances the often dry nature of many gluten-free breads
- Kid-approved (mild flavor, familiar texture)
Ingredients To Make Gluten-Free Chicken Salad
This recipe makes enough for 2 gluten-free sandwiches (or 4 mini sandwich skewers):
- 1 cup cooked chicken (shredded or finely chopped)
- 3 tbsp whole egg mayonnaise – check it’s gluten-free!
- 2 tsp lemon juice
- 2 tbsp finely diced celery
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lettuce leave to layer
- Optional: 1 tsp chopped parsley or spring onion
Step by Step Instructions
Step 1: In a medium bowl, mix chicken, mayo, lemon juice, and celery.
Step 2: Season with salt and pepper (and add herbs if using).
Step 3: Butter your gluten-free bread and layer lettuce leaves, before spreading the chicken salad mixture. Alternatively, spread onto gluten-free wrap, or assemble into mini sandwich skewers for something different.
Variations to Try
This filling is so adaptable! Here are some easy ways to customise it:
🥑 Add-ins
- Avocado: Add 2 tbsp mashed avocado for extra creaminess
- Grated Apple: Sweet and crunchy (squeeze with lemon to prevent browning, but make sure it isn’t too wet)
- Sweetcorn: A kid-favourite, adds texture and colour
- Diced Pickles or Gherkins: Great for older kids
- Cranberries & Grated Carrot: Natural sweetness and colour
Ingredient Swaps
- Greek Yogurt for a lighter twist
- Use rotisserie chicken for speed, but check it’s gluten-free!
- Try parsley or spring onion for added flavour
- Add ¼ tsp curry powder for a quick curried chicken salad
Serving Variations
- Spread in gluten free mini sandwiches
- Thread onto sandwich sticks or sandwich skewers
- Spoon into lettuce cups, wraps or rice cakes for a lunch alternative to sandwiches
- Add to a gluten free sandwiches platter for parties or shared lunch
Storage Tips
Make-ahead friendly and fridge-safe, this filling can be part of your prep routine:
- Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- To prevent soggy sandwiches, store filling and bread separately and assemble in the morning.
- For fresher texture, prepare the chicken and veggie mix ahead, and stir in mayo daily.
- Keep cool in lunchboxes with a freezer brick or frozen yoghurt pouch.
- For parties or lunchboxes, it works well as sandwich kabobs or club sandwich skewers – just chill and pack tightly.
Tips for Gluten-Free Success
- Toast your bread lightly for better structure and flavour.
- Use lettuce or cheese slices to prevent sogginess.
- Choose firmer gluten-free breads or mini rolls for better hold.
- Wrap in baking paper and pack tightly in lunchboxes to help everything stay together.
This nut free sandwich idea is simple, versatile, and one of the easiest ways to upgrade your gluten-free lunch game. Whether you’re looking for a reliable filling for regular sandwiches, wraps, or something a little more fun like sandwich kabobs, this chicken salad is always a hit.
It’s also an easy base recipe to build on – ideal for parents looking for alternative sandwich ideas, or just trying to avoid the dreaded boring sandwich every day.
Chicken Salad Sandwich Filling Recipe (Gluten-Free, Nut-Free)
Ingredients
- 1 cup cooked chicken (shredded or finely chopped)
- 3 tablespoons gluten-free mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons finely diced celery
- 2 teaspoons lemon juice
- lettuce leaves
- salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, mix chicken, mayo, lemon juice, and celery.
- Season with salt and pepper (and add herbs if using).
- Butter your gluten-free bread and layer lettuce leaves, before spreading the chicken salad mixture. Fold, and cut up to your preference.
Notes
🥑 Add-ins
- Avocado: Add 2 tbsp mashed avocado for extra creaminess
- Grated Apple: Sweet and crunchy (squeeze with lemon to prevent browning, but make sure it isn’t too wet)
- Sweetcorn: A kid-favourite, adds texture and colour
- Diced Pickles or Gherkins: Great for older kids
- Cranberries & Grated Carrot: Natural sweetness and colour
Ingredient Swaps
- Greek Yogurt for a lighter twist
- Use rotisserie chicken for speed, but check it’s gluten-free!
- Try parsley or spring onion for added flavour
Did you make this recipe?
Mention us @theglutenfreekids or tag us using #theglutenfreekids so we can see your creations! You can also leave a comment below!
