This Chopped Chicken Bacon Ranch Sandwich is a tasty treat! It’s made with tender chicken, crispy bacon, and creamy ranch dressing, all packed into a soft bun. Yum!
Honestly, what’s better than bacon on a sandwich? I mean, it’s like a hug for your taste buds. I love to serve mine with a side of fries for a fun meal! 🍟
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are convenient and easy to cook. You can use chicken thighs for more flavor or shredded rotisserie chicken for quicker prep.
Bacon: The crispy bacon adds a wonderful texture. Turkey bacon is a lighter option if you prefer, or you could use cooked ham if you’re in a pinch.
Hoagie Roll: A French baguette gives a nice crunch. You could also use whole grain or gluten-free rolls to match your dietary needs.
Romaine Lettuce: It gives the sandwich a satisfying crunch. Use spinach or mixed greens for a different taste or adjust based on what you have.
Ranch Dressing: Homemade ranch dressing offers a fresher flavor, but store-bought is perfect for convenience. A yogurt-based ranch works too if you’re aiming for a lighter option.
What’s the Best Way to Cook Chicken for This Sandwich?
Cooking the chicken properly makes all the difference in your sandwich. Here’s how to achieve juicy chicken breasts:
- Start by seasoning your chicken evenly with herbs. It enhances the flavor.
- Cook in a preheated skillet with olive oil over medium-high heat. This ensures a nice sear.
- Don’t rush it! Cook for 6-7 minutes on each side until fully cooked. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy; it should read 165°F.
- Let the chicken rest after cooking for a few minutes. This locks in the juices.
Chopped Chicken Bacon Ranch Sandwich
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Sandwich:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 6-8 slices of bacon
- 1 large hoagie or French baguette roll (about 12 inches)
- 1 cup Romaine lettuce, chopped
- 1/2 cup tomatoes, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (optional)
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This sandwich takes about 30 minutes of prep and cooking time. You’ll spend roughly 10-15 minutes frying the bacon and chicken, and then just a bit of time chopping and mixing the ingredients. It’s a quick meal that’s packed with flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Bacon:
Start by preheating a skillet over medium heat. Cook the bacon slices in the skillet until they’re crispy. Once done, remove them from the skillet and place on paper towels to drain the excess grease. Once they’re cool, chop or crumble them into pieces.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
While the bacon is cooking, take the chicken breasts and trim any excess fat. Pat them dry with a paper towel to ensure they sear nicely. In a small bowl, mix the garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Rub this seasoning evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts.
3. Cook the Chicken:
In the same skillet, add the olive oil over medium-high heat. Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the skillet and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked and the juices run clear. Once cooked, remove from heat and let the chicken rest for a few minutes, then chop it into bite-sized pieces.
4. Combine the Ingredients:
In a large bowl, mix together the chopped chicken, crumbled bacon, chopped lettuce, diced tomatoes, finely diced red onion, and the optional parsley or cilantro. Drizzle ranch dressing over the mixture and toss it gently until everything is evenly coated.
5. Assemble the Sandwich:
Take the hoagie roll and slice it in half lengthwise, keeping one side hinged if you prefer. Spoon the chopped chicken bacon ranch mixture generously into the roll.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Your Chopped Chicken Bacon Ranch Sandwich is ready to enjoy! Serve it immediately, and maybe pair it with some crispy fries or a refreshing salad on the side.
Can I Use Grilled Chicken Instead?
Absolutely! Grilled chicken adds a delicious smoky flavor. Simply season and grill the chickens until cooked through, then chop them up and proceed with the recipe as usual.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
To store leftovers, place the sandwich mixture in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can keep the bread separate to prevent it from getting soggy. When ready to eat, just assemble your sandwich fresh!
What Can I Use Instead of Ranch Dressing?
If you want to switch things up, try using blue cheese dressing, a yogurt-based dressing for a lighter option, or even pesto for a unique twist!
Can I Make This Sandwich Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prep the chicken and bacon ahead of time! Cook, chop, and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to assemble your sandwiches. Just mix in the fresh veggies and dressing right before serving for best results.
