This grilled chicken sandwich is a real winner! Juicy chicken with tasty seasonings, all tucked inside a soft bun. Add your favorite toppings like lettuce, tomatoes, or cheese for extra yum!
I can’t resist a good sandwich, especially with that grilled flavor. Pair it with crispy fries, and you’ve got a meal that feels like a warm hug! Who doesn’t love that? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for grilling. If you’re looking for alternatives, turkey cutlets can work too, or even grilled vegetables for a veggie option!
Olive Oil: This adds moisture and flavor. If you’re out of olive oil, avocado oil or even melted butter can make great substitutes.
Garlic Powder & Smoked Paprika: These spices infuse great flavor. If you don’t have smoked paprika, regular paprika is fine, but you’ll miss that smoky flavor. Fresh minced garlic is a good alternative for garlic powder too.
Bacon: I love the crunch that bacon adds. For a healthier option, you can use turkey bacon or leave it out for a vegetarian version.
Cheese: Mozzarella and cheddar are fantastic choices! If you’re looking for something with a bit more kick, pepper jack would add a nice touch. Vegan cheese can also be used for a dairy-free option.
How Do You Grill Chicken Perfectly?
Grilling chicken can be tricky, and getting it just right is key to a great sandwich. Here’s how to ensure your chicken is juicy and full of flavor:
- Start by preheating the grill to medium-high. This helps to sear the chicken and lock in juices.
- Brush both sides of the chicken with your olive oil mixture to enhance flavor and prevent sticking.
- Grill each side for about 6-7 minutes. Look for nice grill marks and make sure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Don’t forget to let it rest for a few minutes off the grill! This allows the juices to redistribute, making the chicken more tender.
The Best Grilled Chicken Sandwich
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Toppings:
- 4 slices of bacon
- 2 slices of tomato
- 4 slices of cheese (such as mozzarella or cheddar)
- 4 sesame seed hamburger buns
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious grilled chicken sandwich recipe takes about 20-25 minutes. You will spend around 10 minutes on prep work and cooking the chicken, followed by another 10-15 minutes to grill the bacon and assemble everything. It’s quick and easy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. This will ensure your chicken gets that lovely char and cooks evenly.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
In a small bowl, mix the olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Use a brush or your hands to coat both sides of the chicken breasts evenly with this tasty mixture.
3. Grill the Chicken:
Place the seasoned chicken on the grill and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side. You want to make sure the chicken is cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Once done, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes.
4. Cook the Bacon:
While the chicken rests, grab a skillet and turn the heat to medium. Cook the bacon until crispy, usually around 4-5 minutes. Once cooked, transfer them to paper towels to drain off the excess fat.
5. Melt the Cheese:
Place the grilled chicken breasts back on the grill. Top each breast with a slice of tomato, a couple of bacon strips, and a slice of cheese. Close the lid and let it grill for another 2-3 minutes until the cheese melts perfectly.
6. Toast the Buns:
While the cheese is melting, lightly toast your sesame seed buns on the grill for about 1 minute. This adds a nice crunch!
7. Assemble the Sandwiches:
Now it’s time to put everything together! Place the cheesy chicken on the bottom half of each bun. Sprinkle with fresh parsley for garnish, and top it with the other half of the bun.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Your grilled chicken sandwiches are ready! Serve warm and enjoy the deliciousness!
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add a bit more flavor and moisture to your sandwich. Just adjust the grilling time as thighs might take a few extra minutes to cook through—ensure they also reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
How Can I Make This Sandwich Healthier?
To lighten up your sandwich, consider using less cheese or opting for a lower-fat cheese. You can also swap the bacon for turkey bacon or skip it altogether. Adding extra veggies like spinach, avocado, or cucumber can also boost the freshness without many calories!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store leftover sandwiches in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, consider using a toaster oven to maintain the bun’s crispness. If you separate the components, you can keep the grilled chicken and bacon in the fridge for up to 3 days and reassemble when you’re ready to eat.
Can I Prepare the Chicken Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can marinate the chicken in the olive oil mixture a few hours or even overnight in the fridge. Just make sure to bring the chicken to room temperature before grilling to ensure even cooking. This will enhance the flavor and keep it tender!
