This tasty grilled chicken sandwich is all about juicy chicken and fresh toppings. You’ll love the crispy lettuce, ripe tomatoes, and your favorite sauce nestled in a fluffy bun!
I enjoy making this when friends come over—it’s super easy and everyone gets to pick their toppings! Who doesn’t love customizing their own sandwich? 🍔
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts make for a juicy sandwich. You can substitute with thighs for more flavor or use plant-based patties for a vegetarian option.
Olive Oil: This oil helps keep the chicken moist while adding a nice flavor. If you’re out of olive oil, feel free to use vegetable or canola oil instead.
Spices: Garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika are amazing for flavor. If you don’t have these, you could use Italian seasoning or taco seasoning for something different.
Bacon: Bacon adds crunch and richness. For a healthier choice, turkey bacon or even crispy mushrooms can work as a tasty substitute.
Cheese: I love mozzarella for its melting qualities. If you prefer a stronger flavor, consider cheddar or provolone as alternatives. Vegan cheese also works if you’re avoiding dairy.
Buns: Sesame seed buns are classic, but you can use whole wheat or gluten-free varieties based on your preference.
How Do I Grill Chicken Without Drying It Out?
Grilling chicken can be tricky, but marinating helps keep it juicy. Use the marinade you made for full flavor. Here’s how:
- Let the chicken marinate for at least 15-30 minutes. This infuses flavor and moisture.
- Preheat the grill to medium-high. Starting on high heat helps sear the chicken, locking in juices.
- Cook the chicken for 6-7 minutes per side. This timing gives a nice char without overcooking.
- Check the internal temperature. At 165°F (75°C), you’ll know your chicken is safe to eat but still juicy.
By following these steps, your grilled chicken sandwiches will be full of flavor and perfectly juicy every time!
How to Make The Best Grilled Chicken Sandwich?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
For The Toppings:
- 4 slices of bacon
- 2 slices of mozzarella cheese (or your cheese of choice)
- 2 sesame seed hamburger buns
- 1 large tomato, sliced
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This grilled chicken sandwich requires about 15-30 minutes of prep time for marinating the chicken, plus 15 minutes of cooking time on the grill. Total, you’re looking at roughly 30-45 minutes to make a delicious meal that’s perfect for lunch or dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
First things first, heat your grill to medium-high heat. This will get it nice and hot for grilling your chicken to perfection!
2. Make the Marinade:
In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. This mixture will be your marinade. Mix it together until smooth and well combined.
3. Marinate the Chicken:
Take your chicken breasts and coat them thoroughly with the marinade. Make sure each piece is well-covered for the best flavor! Let it sit for 15 to 30 minutes to absorb all those yummy flavors.
4. Grill the Chicken:
Place the marinated chicken on your preheated grill. Grill each breast for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until the chicken is fully cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). This ensures it’s juicy and safe to eat!
5. Cook the Bacon:
While the chicken is cooking, place the bacon on the grill during the last 2 minutes. Cook it until it’s nice and crispy, and then remove it from the heat.
6. Melt the Cheese:
In the last minute of grilling, place a slice of mozzarella cheese on top of each chicken breast. Close the grill lid to allow the cheese to melt perfectly over the chicken.
7. Toast the Buns:
While the chicken is finishing up, toast the sesame seed buns lightly on the grill for about 1 minute. This adds a nice crunch to your sandwich!
8. Assemble Your Sandwich:
Start building your sandwich! Place one grilled chicken breast on the bottom half of each bun, followed by a few slices of fresh tomato. Top it off with two crispy slices of bacon.
9. Add the Finishing Touches:
Garnish with some fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness, then place the other half of the bun on top.
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Your delicious grilled chicken sandwich is ready! Serve it immediately and enjoy every bit of this tasty creation!
Can I Use a Different Type of Cheese?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap mozzarella for your favorite cheese such as cheddar, provolone, or pepper jack. Just keep in mind that each cheese may have a different melting point; adjust the time on the grill accordingly to ensure it melts beautifully.
What if I Don’t Have a Grill?
No worries! You can cook the chicken in a skillet or grill pan on the stovetop over medium-high heat. Just make sure to use a little olive oil to prevent sticking, and cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side until it reaches the safe internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
How Should I Store Leftover Sandwiches?
If you have any leftovers, wrap the sandwich tightly in plastic wrap or foil and store it in the refrigerator. It will be good for about 2 days. To reheat, unwrap it and place it in the microwave for about 30 seconds or heat it in a skillet until warmed through.
Can I Marinate the Chicken Overnight?
Yes, marinating overnight is a great idea! It allows the flavors to penetrate deeper into the chicken. Just make sure to keep it covered in the fridge. When ready to cook, let the chicken sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before grilling for more even cooking.
