This simple twist on an American classic will keep your guests coming back for more – and more

This classic first appeared in railway club cars, select clubs, and gambling establishments, but has since made its way onto menus globally, featuring a wide range of variations on the original ingredients. This recipe includes bacon, chicken and lettuce with a Cayenne and horseradish butter for an extra kick.

The ingredients (serves 4)

• 12 slices sandwich bread (white, rye, or sourdough)
• 6 tbsp (¾ stick) salted butter, softened
• ¼ tsp cayenne pepper
• 2 tbsp freshly grated horseradish (optional)
• 4 large leaves crisp green curly lettuce
• 3 cups (about 14 oz) cooked chicken, shredded or sliced
• 4 tbsp (¼ cup) mayonnaise
• ¼ cup (3 oz) mango or peach chutney
• 16 slices cooked bacon, cooled and crisp
• 4 medium tomatoes, sliced
• 8 small sandwich skewers or picks (try these Bamboo cocktail picks from Amazon)

The method

• Toast the bread and place on a wire rack to cool (try these 3-tier cooling racks from Amazon) so it stays crisp.
• Mix the butter, cayenne, and horseradish (if using). Spread lightly on one side of each toast slice.
• Layer lettuce, chicken, and mayonnaise evenly over 4 slices of toast. Top each with another slice of toast.
• Spread chutney on this second layer, add 4 slices of bacon to each, then top with tomato slices.
• Place the final toast slice on top, buttered side down. Secure each sandwich with 2 skewers and cut in half diagonally before serving.

This New York Club Sandwich is the perfect addition to a poolside brunch menu if you're looking to eke out the last of summer. Serve with summer salad recipes for relaxed but elevated hosting.