Curried Chicken Tea Sandwiches are a delightful twist on traditional tea sandwiches, combining tender chicken with a medley of fruits and a subtle curry flavor. This fusion of sweet and savory elements makes them an excellent choice for afternoon teas, brunches, or light lunches.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

• 2 cups cubed, cooked chicken
• 1 unpeeled red apple, chopped
• ¾ cup dried cranberries
• ½ cup thinly sliced celery
• ¼ cup chopped pecans
• 2 tablespoons thinly sliced green onions
• ¾ cup mayonnaise
• 2 teaspoons lime juice
• ½ teaspoon curry powder
• 12 slices bread
• 12 lettuce leaves

Directions

1. In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, chopped apple, dried cranberries, celery, pecans, and green onions.
2. In a separate small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, lime juice, and curry powder until well blended.
3. Pour the mayonnaise mixture over the chicken mixture and stir until all ingredients are evenly coated.
4. Cover the bowl and refrigerate the chicken salad until ready to serve.
5. Using a 3-inch heart-shaped cookie cutter, cut each bread slice into heart shapes.
6. Place a lettuce leaf on each bread slice and top with the chicken salad mixture.

Nutrients

• Serving Size: 1 sandwich
• Calories: 529 kcal
• Total Fat: 33g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
• Cholesterol: 47mg
• Sodium: 540mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 44g
  • Dietary Fiber: 4g
  • Sugars: 16g
• Protein: 17g

The Origin of Tea Sandwiches

The tea sandwich, also known as finger sandwich, originated in England during the early 19th century. It was traditionally served during afternoon tea, a practice made famous by Anna, the Duchess of Bedford. As the story goes, the Duchess would feel hungry in the afternoon before dinner, so she started requesting small sandwiches to enjoy with her tea. This idea soon became fashionable among the aristocracy and spread to other parts of the world.

Tea sandwiches are typically made with simple fillings such as cucumber, smoked salmon, or egg, and are usually served on white or brown bread with the crusts removed. The small, bite-sized nature of these sandwiches makes them easy to eat while enjoying tea or cocktails, making them the perfect finger food for gatherings.

Why Choose Curried Chicken for Tea Sandwiches?

The Curried Chicken Tea Sandwich brings an exciting, flavorful twist to the traditional tea sandwich. The choice of curried chicken as the main filling adds a depth of flavor that’s both aromatic and subtly spicy, while still being light enough for a small sandwich. Curry powder, which is typically made from a blend of spices like turmeric, cumin, and coriander, infuses the chicken with warm, earthy tones that are unmistakable. The addition of fruits like apples and cranberries provides a sweet contrast, which balances the savory spices of the curry, creating a complex and delicious flavor profile.

Chicken, being a versatile and lean protein, serves as the perfect base for this dish. It soaks up the curry seasoning beautifully while keeping the sandwich light and satisfying. The use of mayonnaise and lime juice in the dressing adds creaminess and a zesty note, which perfectly complements the spiciness of the curry. When layered on delicate slices of bread with a crisp lettuce leaf, the result is a truly irresistible sandwich.

The Health Benefits of Curried Chicken Tea Sandwiches

While tea sandwiches are often thought of as indulgent treats, Curried Chicken Tea Sandwiches offer several health benefits, especially when compared to other traditional sandwiches or appetizers. The primary ingredient, chicken, is a great source of protein, which is essential for muscle repair and growth. It’s also low in fat, especially when lean cuts like chicken breast are used, making it a healthier alternative to higher-fat meats such as ham or salami.

The addition of fresh vegetables like celery, which is often included in the filling for added crunch, further boosts the nutritional profile of this sandwich. Celery is low in calories and provides dietary fiber, which is essential for digestion and maintaining a healthy weight. The cranberries in the filling are packed with antioxidants, which help protect the body from free radical damage. They also provide a healthy dose of vitamin C, which supports the immune system. Curry powder, the star spice in this recipe, also has several health benefits. Many of the spices that make up curry powder, such as turmeric, cumin, and coriander, have been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Turmeric, in particular, contains curcumin, a compound known for its potential to reduce inflammation and improve brain function.

Serving Suggestions: How to Make the Most of Your Curried Chicken Tea Sandwiches

These Curried Chicken Tea Sandwiches are a perfect addition to any gathering. Whether you’re hosting a formal afternoon tea, a casual lunch, or a more festive event, these sandwiches are sure to make a statement. Their elegant presentation, combined with their flavorful filling, makes them a standout item on any buffet or table.

You can serve these sandwiches as part of a tea spread with other light bites, such as cucumber sandwiches, smoked salmon, and egg salad sandwiches. For a more substantial meal, pair the sandwiches with a fresh salad, perhaps a crisp green salad with a lemon vinaigrette, to balance out the richness of the chicken and curry. You could also serve them with a refreshing glass of iced tea, lemonade, or even sparkling water with a hint of lime. For an extra touch of elegance, consider cutting the sandwiches into fun shapes, such as hearts, stars, or triangles. This will give your tea sandwiches a more refined appearance and make them even more appealing to your guests.

Making the Recipe Your Own

One of the best things about Curried Chicken Tea Sandwiches is how customizable the recipe is. While the basic combination of chicken, curry powder, and mayonnaise is a classic, you can modify the filling to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs.

If you prefer a spicier version, consider adding a bit of cayenne pepper or red chili flakes to the chicken mixture. This will give the sandwiches an extra kick and make them more exciting for guests who enjoy bold flavors. If you’re looking to make the sandwiches healthier, you could substitute the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt, which would still provide creaminess but with fewer calories and more protein. For a more colorful and vibrant filling, you could add finely diced bell peppers, carrots, or even spinach. These vegetables will not only enhance the flavor but also boost the nutritional content of the sandwiches. If you’re hosting a vegetarian or vegan gathering, the chicken can be easily swapped with tofu or a plant-based protein, and the mayonnaise can be replaced with a vegan alternative to suit dietary preferences.

Conclusion: Why You Should Try Curried Chicken Tea Sandwiches

Curried Chicken Tea Sandwiches are a flavorful and elegant twist on a classic. The combination of tender chicken, aromatic curry, and the sweetness of fruits like apples and cranberries makes them a perfect bite-sized treat for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a sophisticated tea party or preparing a casual lunch, these sandwiches will surely delight your guests with their unique and delicious flavors.