This Chopped Chicken Bacon Ranch Sandwich is a tasty delight! With tender chicken, crispy bacon, and creamy ranch dressing, it’s easy to love every bite.
Who doesn’t enjoy a sandwich that packs all the best flavors? I like to add extra bacon for that crunch. You can never have too much bacon, right? 🥓
Making this sandwich is a breeze! Just mix your ingredients and pile them high on your favorite bread. It’s perfect for lunch or a quick dinner that satisfies. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless breasts are great for this recipe. You can substitute with thighs for a juicier option or even use rotisserie chicken if you’re short on time.
Bacon: I love using thick-cut bacon for extra crunch. Turkey bacon is a nice alternative if you’re looking for a leaner choice.
Ranch Dressing: Homemade ranch dressing is delicious but using store-bought saves time. If you’re dairy-free, there are good vegan ranch options in most supermarkets.
Bread: Hoagie rolls are perfect, but feel free to use whole wheat, gluten-free bread, or even tortillas for a wrap. It’s all about what you enjoy!
How Can I Make the Juiciest Chicken for My Sandwich?
Cooking chicken properly is key! Baking at 400°F helps it cook evenly but make sure not to overcook it, as that can dry it out. Letting it rest after baking keeps it juicy.
- Rub olive oil and seasonings onto the chicken for flavor.
- Check the chicken at the 20-minute mark. It should reach 165°F (75°C) to be safe to eat.
- Chop it up just before assembling your sandwich to keep it warm and juicy.
With these tips, you’ll create a tasty Chopped Chicken Bacon Ranch Sandwich that everyone will love! Enjoy your cooking adventure!
Chopped Chicken Bacon Ranch Sandwich
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Sandwich:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 6 slices bacon
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup Romaine lettuce, shredded
- 1 medium tomato, sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
- 2 hoagie rolls or baguette sandwich bread
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 35 minutes in total. You’ll need around 10 minutes for prep and about 25 minutes for cooking. It’s a quick and satisfying meal that you can whip up any day of the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature is perfect for cooking the chicken evenly. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to make cleanup easier later!
2. Season the Chicken:
In a small bowl, mix together the garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Rub the chicken breasts with olive oil, then sprinkle the seasoning mixture evenly over them to add lots of flavor.
3. Bake the Chicken:
Place the seasoned chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet. Bake them in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes until they are cooked through and no longer pink inside. Let them rest for 5 minutes once they’re done, then chop them into bite-sized pieces.
4. Cook the Bacon:
While the chicken is baking, heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the bacon slices and cook until they’re crispy. Once done, drain them on paper towels and crumble or chop them into smaller pieces.
5. Prepare the Hoagie Rolls:
Take your hoagie rolls and slice them down the middle, making sure not to cut all the way through, so they can hold the filling like a pocket!
6. Add the Ranch Dressing:
Spread ranch dressing generously on the bottom half of each roll. This creamy base adds a delicious flavor and keeps everything moist.
7. Assemble the Sandwich:
On top of the ranch dressing, layer your shredded lettuce, sliced tomatoes, chopped chicken, crumbled bacon, red onion, and any optional cilantro if you’re using it. Feel free to add as much or as little as you like!
8. Close and Serve:
Close the sandwich and serve immediately. Enjoy each delicious bite of this hearty meal filled with juicy chicken, crispy bacon, fresh vegetables, and creamy ranch dressing!
This sandwich is perfect for a hearty lunch or casual dinner, and you can serve it alongside your favorite chips or a pickle. Enjoy your tasty creation!
Can I Use Leftover Chicken for This Sandwich?
Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken works perfectly. Just chop it up and toss it in with the other ingredients for a quick assembly.
How Can I Make This Sandwich Healthier?
To lighten it up, you can use grilled chicken instead of baked and turkey bacon instead of regular bacon. Also, opt for a whole grain or lettuce wrap instead of hoagie rolls for a lower-carb option.
What Can I Use Instead of Ranch Dressing?
If you’re not a fan of ranch, try using honey mustard, blue cheese, or a vinaigrette. Each will give a different flavor profile but will still be delicious!
How Do I Store Leftover Sandwich Components?
Store the leftover chicken, bacon, and vegetables separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Assemble the sandwiches fresh when you’re ready to enjoy them again!