This Chopped Chicken Bacon Ranch Sandwich is a tasty treat! Filled with juicy chicken, crispy bacon, and creamy ranch, it’s perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Who doesn’t love bacon? I mean, it’s the best part! I like to add some fresh lettuce and tomatoes for a crunch and make every bite a delight. Yummy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for this sandwich because they grill beautifully. If you’re looking for an alternative, shredded rotisserie chicken works great, or you can use turkey for a leaner option!
Bacon: I love crispy bacon in this recipe, but if you’re aiming for a healthier version, turkey bacon is a good substitute. It has less fat but still gives you that smoky flavor.
Ranch Dressing: Store-bought ranch dressing is super convenient, but you can make your own with mayo, buttermilk, and herbs if you prefer a fresher taste. For a healthier option, Greek yogurt can replace mayo.
Hoagie Rolls: Traditional hoagie rolls are fluffy and soft, perfect for this dish. However, you could use whole grain rolls, wraps, or even lettuce wraps if you want a low-carb option.
How Do You Grill Chicken for the Perfect Texture?
Grilling chicken can be tricky, but follow these simple steps for great results. The key is even cooking and moisture:
- Preheat your grill to medium heat. A hot grill helps sear the chicken, keeping it juicy.
- Season your chicken well with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. This adds flavor right from the start!
- Grill for about 6-7 minutes on each side. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; the internal temperature should reach 165°F.
Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after grilling to keep it juicy. Enjoy!
Chopped Chicken Bacon Ranch Sandwich
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 6 strips bacon
- 4 hoagie or sub rolls
- 1 cup shredded lettuce (green leaf or romaine)
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/4 cup diced yellow bell pepper
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious sandwich will take about 15 minutes of preparation and around 20 minutes of cooking time. In total, you’ll need about 35 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick and satisfying meal that’s sure to please everyone!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by preheating your grill or grill pan over medium heat. As it heats up, season both chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Make sure to coat them evenly to get great flavor!
2. Grill the Chicken:
Place the seasoned chicken on the grill. Grill for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is cooked through and juices run clear. To ensure the chicken is fully cooked, you can use a meat thermometer; it should read 165°F (75°C). Once done, remove the chicken from the heat and let it rest for a few minutes.
3. Cook the Bacon:
While the chicken is resting, cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until it’s crispy. This usually takes about 5-8 minutes. Once crispy, let the bacon drain on paper towels and crumble it into small pieces once it’s cool enough to handle.
4. Chop the Chicken:
After the chicken has rested, chop it into small, bite-sized pieces. This makes it easier to mix with the other ingredients and ensures every bite is packed with flavor!
5. Mix the Filling:
In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped chicken, crumbled bacon (if you want some reserved for garnish, you can leave a bit out), diced tomatoes, yellow bell pepper, chopped green onions, and ranch dressing. Give it a good stir until everything is well-mixed and coated.
6. Assemble the Sandwiches:
Now it’s time to put together your sandwich! Split the hoagie rolls and layer each one with shredded lettuce. Then, spoon the chicken mixture evenly onto each roll.
7. Garnish and Serve:
If you saved some bacon, sprinkle it on top for an extra touch! You can also add more veggies if you like. Serve these hearty sandwiches right away and enjoy every delicious bite!
Dig in and savor your delicious Chopped Chicken Bacon Ranch Sandwich!
Can I Use Leftover Chicken for This Sandwich?
Absolutely! Leftover grilled or rotisserie chicken works perfectly. Just chop it into bite-sized pieces and combine it with the other ingredients as you would with freshly cooked chicken.
How Do I Make This Sandwich Healthier?
To make a healthier version, consider using grilled turkey bacon instead of regular bacon, and opt for whole wheat hoagie rolls. You can also add more vegetables like sliced cucumbers or avocados for extra nutrition!
Can I Prepare the Chicken and Bacon in Advance?
Yes! You can grill the chicken and cook the bacon ahead of time. Store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, just mix them with the other ingredients and assemble the sandwiches for a quick meal.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
To store leftovers, place the sandwich filling in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep the hoagie rolls separate to avoid sogginess. When you’re ready to eat, you can reheat the filling gently before assembling the sandwich again!