This Chopped Chicken Bacon Ranch Sandwich is a tasty treat! With juicy chicken, crispy bacon, and creamy ranch dressing all tucked in a soft bun, it’s a perfect meal for any time.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts give the sandwich a tender and juicy bite. You could also use rotisserie chicken if you’re short on time—it’s pre-cooked and just as delicious!
Bacon: The crispy bacon adds a nice crunch and flavor. Turkey bacon is a great substitute if you’re looking for a lighter option, or you can skip it entirely for a vegetarian version.
Ranch Dressing: A classic for this sandwich! If ranch isn’t your thing, try using blue cheese dressing or a yogurt-based dressing for a healthier alternative.
Lettuce: While iceberg lettuce is crunchy and refreshing, you can use romaine or even spinach for a twist. They add different textures and flavors!
How Do I Grill Chicken to Perfection?
Grilling chicken can be tricky, but following these steps can help you achieve juicy, flavorful results:
- Start with chicken at room temperature. This helps them cook evenly.
- Make sure your grill is well-heated. You want it at medium-high for a nice sear.
- Season generously with your spice mix and let it rest for about 5-10 minutes before grilling.
- Grill for 6-7 minutes on each side. Use an instant-read thermometer to check for doneness (165°F is your goal).
- Always let grilled chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. This keeps all that juiciness inside!
By keeping these tips in mind, you’ll have a yummy Chopped Chicken Bacon Ranch Sandwich that everyone will love! Enjoy every bite!
Chopped Chicken Bacon Ranch Sandwich
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Sandwich:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 6 slices bacon
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 4 hoagie or sub rolls
- 1 cup shredded iceberg lettuce
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or cilantro (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful sandwich takes about 30 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend roughly 10 minutes prepping ingredients and seasoning, 15 minutes cooking the chicken and bacon, and a few final minutes assembling the sandwiches.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. This heating step is important to ensure a nice sear on the chicken.
2. Season the Chicken:
In a small bowl, combine the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Use this mixture to season both sides of the chicken breasts evenly. This helps pack in the flavor!
3. Grill the Chicken:
Place the chicken breasts on the grill and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until they are fully cooked and the juices run clear. Use a meat thermometer if you have one; you want the internal temperature to reach 165°F. Once done, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes.
4. Cook the Bacon:
While the chicken is resting, cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Let the cooked bacon drain on paper towels to remove excess grease, and then chop it into bite-sized pieces.
5. Chop the Chicken:
Now it’s time to slice or chop the grilled chicken into bite-sized pieces. This makes it easier to fit into the sandwich and share the deliciousness with every bite!
6. Prepare the Rolls:
Take your hoagie rolls and cut them in half lengthwise. You can leave a hinge if you like, which makes it easier to hold.
7. Add the Dressing:
Generously spread ranch dressing on both sides of each hoagie roll. This is where the creamy flavor really comes into play!
8. Assemble the Sandwich:
On the bottom half of each roll, layer in the shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, chopped chicken, and crispy bacon pieces. Feel free to be generous!
9. Finish It Off:
Drizzle a little more ranch dressing on top of the fillings, and sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or cilantro if you’re using it. This adds a lovely fresh twist!
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Close the sandwich with the top half of the roll and serve immediately. Enjoy every flavorful bite of this Chopped Chicken Bacon Ranch Sandwich, perfect for lunch or dinner!
Can I Use Leftover Chicken for This Sandwich?
Absolutely! Leftover grilled chicken or rotisserie chicken works perfectly for this recipe. Just chop it up, and you can save time while still enjoying that great flavor!
What Can I Use Instead of Ranch Dressing?
If ranch isn’t your favorite, you can substitute it with a creamy blue cheese dressing, a light vinaigrette, or even a yogurt-based dressing for a healthier option.
How Long Do Leftover Sandwiches Last?
Leftover sandwiches can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just keep in mind that the bread may get a little soggy from the dressing and moisture.
Can I Make This Sandwich Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the chicken and bacon ahead and store them in the fridge. Just assemble the sandwiches right before serving to keep the bread fresh and crunchy!