Nanny to Mommy

There’s something about the start of apple season that makes me crave all things crisp, fresh, and just a little bit sweet. And if you're anything like me, you're always on the lookout for easy, nutritious lunch or dinner ideas that the whole family might actually eat without you having to spend hours in the kitchen. Let me introduce you to one of our recent favorites: Chicken Salad with Honeycrisp Apples and Cashews, sandwiched between slices of hearty whole grain bread.




This is the kind of recipe that checks all the boxes:
✔️ Quick to throw together
✔️ Great for meal prep
✔️ Kid-friendly (with a few workarounds!)
✔️ Picnic-perfect
✔️ Packed with texture and flavor

It’s become one of our go-to sandwiches: great for lunchboxes, after-school snacks, weekend lunches, or those late summer evenings when no one wants to turn on the stove.

Why This Chicken Salad Sandwich Works for Families

As a parent, I’m always balancing taste with nutrition, and this sandwich offers a little of both. The tender chicken provides protein, the apple brings in a sweet crunch, the cashews add texture and healthy fats, and the cucumber gives it a refreshing twist. Layered on hearty whole grain bread, it’s not just filling, it’s satisfying in that “I didn’t even know I was craving this” kind of way.

This sandwich is a great way to:

Use up leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken

Incorporate fruits and veggies without the kids even noticing

Create a portable meal you can enjoy at home, work, or even on a picnic

Make lunches ahead of time that hold up well in the fridge

 

Ingredients for Chicken Salad with Apples and Cashews

This recipe uses fresh, simple ingredients that you probably already have at home. Here’s what you’ll need:

2 cups cooked chicken, diced (leftovers or rotisserie work great)

1/2 cup chopped salted cashews

1/2 cup chopped Honeycrisp apple (or your favorite sweet, crunchy variety)

1/2 cup chopped peeled cucumber

1/2 cup mayonnaise (you can sub-Greek yogurt for a lighter version)

1/2 teaspoon sugar (or a sugar substitute like Splenda)

1/2 teaspoon salt

Dash of pepper

Whole grain bread, for serving

How to Make It

This recipe couldn’t be easier, which is why it’s ideal for busy weeknights or lunch prep.

Step 1: In a large bowl, combine the diced chicken, cashews, apple, and cucumber.

Step 2: In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sugar, salt, and pepper.

Step 3: Pour the mayo mixture over the chicken mixture and gently toss until everything is evenly coated.

Step 4: Spoon onto your favorite whole grain bread (toasted or fresh) and serve! You can also enjoy this mixture in a wrap, over greens, or in a pita pocket.

Make It Work for Your Family

Every family has its own preferences (and picky phases), so here are a few tips to customize this chicken salad to suit everyone at your table:

For younger kids: Serve the chicken salad on crackers or mini slider buns. You can also skip the cashews if your little one is sensitive to crunch or texture.

For toddlers: Dice everything extra small and serve the chicken salad scooped with a spoon or spread inside a rolled-up tortilla.

For grown-ups: Add a slice of sharp cheddar, arugula, or a swipe of mustard to give your sandwich a bolder flavor.

Make it dairy-free: Swap the mayo with vegan mayo alternatives and use nut-free options if needed.

Packing Tips for School or Work Lunches

This sandwich is a solid lunchbox option because it holds up well and doesn’t get soggy if you pack it right. Here’s how:

Store the chicken salad in a small, sealed container and pack the bread separately. Kids (or you!) can assemble the sandwich at school or lunchtime.

Freeze extra bread slices so you always have some on hand—just pop them in the toaster for a quick defrost.

Add a side of apple slices, cucumber sticks, or a handful of grapes for a well-balanced lunch.

Freezing & Storage Tips

One of the questions I get a lot is: “How do I keep bread fresh when I don’t use it fast enough?” Here’s a great tip:

Freeze it! If you don’t plan to eat your bread within 7–10 days, double-bag the loaf and freeze for up to 3 months. You can take out slices as needed to toast or thaw overnight.

The chicken salad itself can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to three days. Just stir well before serving.

Final Thoughts

I love finding simple recipes that make healthy eating feel doable, especially when life feels like a marathon of errands, work, and after-school chaos. This apple chicken salad sandwich has become one of those reliable, “grab-and-go” meals that’s earned a spot in our regular rotation.

It’s sweet, savory, crunchy, and creamy all in one bite, plus it travels well, fills you up, and feels just a little more special than the standard PB&J.

What’s your go-to sandwich recipe for busy days? Share it in the comments or let me know how your crew liked this one!