Grilled Chicken Sandwich: 5 Tasty Twists for Your Ultimate Summer Meal

There’s something undeniably satisfying about a perfectly cooked Grilled Chicken Sandwich. It’s a versatile canvas for flavors, making it a go-to for weeknight dinners, backyard BBQs, or a delightful picnic lunch. While the classic version is a winner, discovering new chicken marinade recipes can elevate your sandwich game from good to extraordinary. Dive in to master the basics and explore five exciting variations that will revolutionize your grilled chicken experience.

Quick Glance Summary

This recipe focuses on creating a flavorful, juicy grilled chicken breast, perfect for sandwiches. It’s designed to be easily adaptable, offering a base for various flavor profiles. The cooking process is straightforward, emphasizing proper marination and grilling techniques to ensure tender chicken every time. Prep takes about 20 minutes, with an additional 30 minutes for marinating and 10-15 minutes for grilling.

What You’ll Need

Creating an amazing Grilled Chicken Sandwich starts with quality ingredients and a great marinade. This list covers the essentials for a classic sandwich, providing a base you can easily customize.

• ✦ 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6-8 oz each)
• ✦ 4 sturdy sandwich buns (brioche, ciabatta, or whole wheat)
• ✦ 1/4 cup olive oil
• ✦ 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ✦ 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• ✦ 1 teaspoon dried oregano (or 1 tbsp fresh)
• ✦ 1/2 teaspoon salt
• ✦ 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• ✦ Lettuce leaves
• ✦ Tomato, sliced
• ✦ Red onion, thinly sliced
• ✦ Mayonnaise or your favorite spread

 

Preparation Instructions

Follow these steps for a perfectly cooked, tender, and flavorful Grilled Chicken Sandwich. Exploring different chicken marinade recipes can truly transform your sandwich experience, so don’t be afraid to experiment with the flavors mentioned below!

1. Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. If they are very thick, gently pound them to an even 1/2-inch thickness for quicker and more uniform cooking.
2. Make the Marinade: In a medium bowl, whisk together the olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, oregano, salt, and pepper.
3. Marinate the Chicken: Add the chicken breasts to the marinade, ensuring they are fully coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for deeper flavor. Do not marinate for more than 4 hours as the lemon juice can start to break down the chicken’s texture.
4. Preheat the Grill: Preheat your outdoor grill to medium-high heat (about 400-450°F / 200-230°C). Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
5. Grill the Chicken: Remove chicken from the marinade, discarding any excess. Place the chicken breasts on the hot grill. Cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) using a meat thermometer and the chicken is no longer pink in the center. Avoid overcooking to keep it juicy.
6. Rest the Chicken: Transfer the grilled chicken to a cutting board and let it rest for 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a tender and moist chicken.
7. Toast the Buns (Optional): While the chicken rests, lightly toast the sandwich buns on the grill for 1-2 minutes until golden brown.
8. Assemble the Sandwich: Spread mayonnaise or your preferred condiment on both sides of the toasted bun. Layer with lettuce, tomato, onion, and the rested grilled chicken breast. Serve immediately.

 

Fun Twists & Serving Ideas

The beauty of the grilled chicken sandwich lies in its adaptability. Here are five exciting twists to keep your taste buds happy:

1. Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sandwich: Toss the grilled chicken in your favorite buffalo sauce. Top with blue cheese crumbles or a ranch dressing slaw for a zesty kick.
2. Mediterranean Delight: Marinate chicken with olive oil, lemon, oregano, and a pinch of sumac. Serve on ciabatta with feta cheese, Kalamata olives, sliced cucumber, and a tzatziki spread.
3. BBQ Ranch Melt: Baste the chicken with BBQ sauce during the last few minutes of grilling. Top with melted provolone or cheddar cheese, crispy bacon, and a drizzle of ranch dressing.
4. Pesto Provolone: After grilling, spread basil pesto on the bun. Layer the chicken with roasted red peppers, fresh mozzarella or provolone, and a few fresh basil leaves.
5. California Avocado Club: Add crispy bacon, sliced avocado, a slice of sharp cheddar, and a creamy chipotle mayo to your classic grilled chicken sandwich for a hearty, flavorful upgrade.

FAQ

Q: How do I prevent my grilled chicken from drying out?
A: Pounding chicken breasts to an even thickness helps immensely. Also, use a marinade with some acidity (like lemon juice or vinegar) and oil, and most importantly, do not overcook! Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F (74°C) and then remove it promptly from the heat. Resting the chicken also helps retain moisture.

Q: What are the best buns for a grilled chicken sandwich?
A: Sturdy buns like brioche, ciabatta, or even a good quality potato bun work wonderfully as they can hold up to the fillings without getting soggy. Toasting them lightly adds extra flavor and texture.

Q: Can I prepare the chicken ahead of time?
A: You can marinate the chicken for up to 4 hours in advance. Once grilled, the cooked chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently before assembling your sandwich.

Q: What if I don’t have an outdoor grill?
A: You can use a grill pan on your stovetop. Preheat it to medium-high heat, brush with a little oil, and cook the chicken for the same duration, checking for doneness with a thermometer.

Q: What kind of toppings pair well with a grilled chicken sandwich?
A: Beyond the standard lettuce, tomato, and onion, consider adding avocado, crispy bacon, pickles, various cheeses (provolone, cheddar, Swiss), coleslaw, or different sauces like pesto, sriracha mayo, or honey mustard.

Conclusion

A perfectly executed Grilled Chicken Sandwich is a testament to simple ingredients coming together in harmony. With our straightforward guide and inspiring twists, you’re now equipped to create not just a meal, but an experience. Remember, the secret to succulent results often lies in your choice of chicken marinade recipes and precise grilling. So fire up that grill, experiment with flavors, and enjoy the endless possibilities this classic offers!

Recipe Note

For an extra layer of flavor and to keep your chicken incredibly moist, consider brining your chicken breasts for 30 minutes in a saltwater solution (1 tablespoon salt per cup of water) before marinating. Rinse thoroughly before adding to the marinade.