Danish Smørrebrød with Leftover Roast Chicken, Radishes & Dill

Danish Smørrebrød with Leftover Roast Chicken, Radishes & Dill

Smørrebrød, Denmark’s iconic open-faced sandwich, is a simple yet elegant way to enjoy leftover roast chicken. This version layers tender chicken with crisp radishes, fresh dill, and a tangy mustard dressing on dense rye bread, creating a satisfying balance of textures and flavors. Perfect for a quick lunch or light spring meal, this dish highlights Nordic simplicity while making the most of leftovers.
Print Recipe
Prep Time:10 minutes

Ingredients

  • 2 slices rye bread
  • 150 g leftover roast chicken sliced
  • 4 slices radish
  • 2 tbsp crème fraîche or Greek yogurt
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 tbsp fresh dill chopped
  • 1 tsp lemon juice
  • ½ tsp sea salt
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
  • 1 tbsp butter for spreading

Instructions

  • In a small bowl, mix the crème fraîche (or Greek yogurt) with Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
  • Spread a thin layer of butter on each slice of rye bread.
  • Arrange the sliced roast chicken evenly over the bread.
  • Place the radish slices on top of the chicken.
  • Drizzle with the mustard sauce and sprinkle with fresh dill.
  • Serve immediately as an open-faced sandwich, or let it sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Notes

  • Using Leftover Chicken – This smørrebrød is an excellent way to repurpose leftover roast chicken. If your chicken is a bit dry, consider warming it slightly or tossing it in a bit of olive oil or extra mustard dressing to restore moisture.
  • Bread Choice – Traditional Danish smørrebrød is made with dense rye bread, which holds up well to toppings without becoming soggy. However, a hearty sourdough or seeded bread can also work in a pinch.
  • Radish Variations – If fresh radishes aren’t available, try thinly sliced cucumber, pickled onions, or even shaved fennel for a similar fresh and crisp contrast to the rich chicken.
  • Make-Ahead Tip – If preparing in advance, store the assembled smørrebrød without the sauce and radishes. Add these just before serving to maintain the best texture and flavor.
  • Serving Suggestion – Serve alongside a simple green salad, pickled vegetables, or a cup of clear broth for a balanced Scandinavian-inspired lunch.

Nutrition

Calories: 149kcal | Carbohydrates: 30g | Protein: 5g | Fat: 2g | Saturated Fat: 0.4g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.4g | Monounsaturated Fat: 1g | Trans Fat: 0.01g | Sodium: 1237mg | Potassium: 605mg | Fiber: 6g | Sugar: 9g | Vitamin A: 36IU | Vitamin C: 36mg | Calcium: 100mg | Iron: 2mg
Servings: 2
Calories: 149kcal