As someone who strives to eat balanced meals, I often feel like I get cheated when we’re grabbing lunch on the go. At many chains, the only healthy option is a grilled chicken sandwich. You know as soon as you order it, it’s probably going to be bland and dry, a sacrifice to be made in the name of nutrition. This grilled chicken sandwich is the redemption. It is everything I wish the grilled chicken sandwiches at cookouts and restaurant pitstops could be! No more bland, rubbery chicken.
This grilled chicken is marinated in a blend of honey, garlic, lemon juice, and a touch of Dijon. It tastes yummy enough to enjoy on its own.It’s moist and juicy. Lightly pounding the chicken ensures it cooks evenly and the outsides don’t dry out before the center is finished. Thanks to the marinade, you don’t have to drown it in sauce later.It doesn’t neglect the details. A good quality bun and crisp toppings can make all the difference when it comes to making a stellar sammie.
As we enter the season of grilled dinners and backyard potlucks, keep this grilled chicken sandwich recipe in your back pocket.
For a group, you can marinate as many chicken breasts as you need well in advance, fire them off just before serving, then let your guests assemble their own.For a fast dinner, this chicken requires just 30 minutes of marinating time. You can use that window to prep the side dishes, tidy the kitchen, or complete today’s Wordle.
How to Make the Best Grilled Chicken Sandwich
This recipe is simple, which means that, while it is easy, there are a few key points you need to nail.
Do not overcook the chicken. This is juicy chicken sandwich rule #1.Marinating is not optional. The marinade (especially the salt in the marinade) both flavors the chicken and makes it more moist (see this Chicken Marinade for more information).Use ripe tomatoes. Don’t let a bland, out-of-season tomato bring your chicken sandwich down. Not tomato season? Swap in sun-dried tomatoes, which will make your sandwich delicious.Be picky about your bun. I have had many a restaurant sandwich (or Blue Cheese Burger) not live up to its potential, because the bun was lackluster (little flavor, too thick or too thin, flimsy, dry, etc.). It’s worth spending a few dollars more for a nicer bun. Brioche is always a good choice.Protect the bottom bun. You can assemble a chicken sandwich in any order, but personally, I prefer to start with a crisp lettuce leaf to make sure the bottom bun doesn’t become soggy while I am eating the sandwich.
The Ingredients
Chicken Breast. Boneless, skinless chicken breasts create a healthy, crowd-pleasing sandwich. They soak up the marinade, making them juicy and flavorful. Honey. Adds delicious sweetness to the chicken marinade and helps it caramelize as it cooks. Dijon. The tangy mustard flavor of Dijon gives depth to the marinade. Lemon Juice. Helps tenderize the chicken breasts.
Spices. Smoked paprika and garlic powder add smoky, garlicky flavor to the marinade. Buns. We like to serve our grilled chicken sandwiches on seeded whole wheat hamburger buns or brioche buns. You could use any type of bun you prefer (just make sure it’s good quality!), or wrap your chicken sandwich in a lettuce leaf for a low-carb option. Lettuce + Tomato. Classic grilled chicken sandwich toppings. Make sure to use a ripe tomato, or try sun-dried tomatoes instead.
The Directions
Storage Tips
To Store. Refrigerate the grilled chicken in an airtight storage container for up to 4 days. Store the buns at room temperature. To Reheat. Gently rewarm chicken on a baking sheet in the oven at 350 degrees F or in the microwave. Toast buns in the oven as well if desired. To Freeze. Freeze the grilled chicken in an airtight, freezer-safe storage container for up to 3 months. Let thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Freeze buns in an airtight freezer-safe ziptop bag. Thaw at room temperature or toast from frozen.
Recommended Tools to Make this Recipe
Tongs. Perfect for flipping the chicken breasts. Instant Read Thermometer. My #1 tip for knowing when chicken is done. Grill Pan. No outdoor grill? No problem! This grill pan will do the trick.
This perfect grilled chicken sandwich hits the spot when I’m craving a simple, satisfying meal on a warm night.
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