Grilled Chicken Sandwiches with Bacon: The Ultimate Grilled Chicken Sandwich Recipe
Introduction to Grilled Chicken Sandwiches with Bacon
Are you ready to elevate your sandwich game? This Grilled Chicken Sandwich with Bacon is not just any ordinary sandwich; it’s a deliciously satisfying meal that combines juicy grilled chicken, crispy bacon, and flavorful toppings. Perfect for a family dinner or a weekend barbecue, this recipe is sure to impress everyone at the table.
A Personal Story Behind My Grilled Chicken Sandwiches with Bacon Journey
Growing up, my family had a tradition of grilling on weekends. My dad would often make his famous chicken sandwiches, but it was the addition of bacon that really made them special. I remember the aroma wafting through the backyard, making my mouth water before we even sat down to eat. This recipe brings back those nostalgic memories, combining the flavors I love with a fresh twist!
What Makes This Grilled Chicken Sandwiches with Bacon Recipe Special?
This recipe stands out because of its unique marinade that infuses the chicken with a burst of flavor. The combination of pickle juice, garlic, and paprika creates a delightful taste that pairs perfectly with the crispy bacon and creamy seasoned mayo. Additionally, using brioche buns adds a touch of sweetness and richness that complements the other ingredients beautifully. This isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience!
The Full Grilled Chicken Sandwiches with Bacon Recipe
Ingredients
- For the Grilled Chicken Breasts:
- 4 medium chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons pickle juice
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- For the Seasoned Mayo:
- 1/3 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- Pinch of salt and pepper
- 1 teaspoon pickle juice
- To Assemble the Sandwiches:
- 8 slices bacon
- 4 Brioche buns
- 4-6 slices provolone cheese
- Iceberg lettuce
- Thinly sliced red onion
- Pickle slices
- Sliced tomato
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken:
- Place each chicken breast in a freezer bag or between parchment paper and pound gently to an even thickness.
- In a small bowl, mix olive oil, pickle juice, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the marinade over the chicken breasts and refrigerate for 1-2 hours. (This step enhances flavor, so don’t skip it!)
- Grill the Chicken:
- Remove the marinated chicken from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for 10 minutes.
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
- Grill the chicken for 4-5 minutes on each side until the internal temperature reaches 160-165°F.
- Place provolone cheese slices on top of the chicken and close the lid for 30 seconds to melt the cheese.
- Rest the chicken covered with foil for 5-10 minutes. (Resting helps keep it juicy!)
- Cook the Bacon & Toast the Buns:
- Cook bacon in a skillet until crispy. Set aside on a paper towel.
- Reserve some bacon grease in the pan and toast the buns cut-side down for about 30 seconds.
- Assemble the Sandwiches:
- In a bowl, mix mayonnaise, paprika, garlic powder, pickle juice, salt, and pepper.
- Spread the seasoned mayo on the buns.
- Layer onion slices, pickle slices, tomato, chicken, and lettuce on the bottom bun.
- Top with the other half of the bun and serve.
Serving Suggestions and Variations for Grilled Chicken Sandwiches with Bacon
These sandwiches are fantastic on their own, but you can enhance them further. Consider adding avocado slices for creaminess or jalapeños for a kick of heat. Pair the sandwiches with a side of sweet potato fries or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal. For a smokier flavor, lightly grill the buns before assembling the sandwiches.
Frequently Asked Questions About Grilled Chicken Sandwiches with Bacon
- Can I prepare the chicken ahead of time?
Yes, marinated chicken can be stored in the fridge for up to 24 hours before grilling. - What if I don’t have a grill?
You can cook the chicken on a stovetop grill pan or bake it in the oven at 375°F for about 20-25 minutes. - Can I use different cheese?
Absolutely! Cheddar or Swiss cheese would also work well in this recipe.
Grilled Chicken Sandwiches with Bacon
Equipment
- Grill For grilling the chicken and toasting the buns.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 medium chicken breasts
- 0.25 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons pickle juice
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
Seasoned Mayo
- 0.33 cup mayonnaise
- 0.25 teaspoon paprika
- 0.25 teaspoon garlic powder
- pinch salt
- pinch pepper
- 1 teaspoon pickle juice
To Assemble
- 8 slices bacon
- 4 count Brioche buns
- 4 slices provolone cheese
- 1 head Iceberg lettuce
- 1 count red onion
- 1 count pickle slices
- 1 count sliced tomato
Instructions
- Place each chicken breast in a freezer bag or between parchment paper and pound gently to an even thickness.
- In a small bowl, mix olive oil, pickle juice, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the marinade over the chicken breasts and refrigerate for 1-2 hours. (This step enhances flavor, so don’t skip it!)
- Remove the marinated chicken from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for 10 minutes.
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
- Grill the chicken for 4-5 minutes on each side until the internal temperature reaches 160-165°F.
- Place provolone cheese slices on top of the chicken and close the lid for 30 seconds to melt the cheese.
- Rest the chicken covered with foil for 5-10 minutes. (Resting helps keep it juicy!)
- Cook bacon in a skillet until crispy. Set aside on a paper towel.
- Reserve some bacon grease in the pan and toast the buns cut-side down for about 30 seconds.
- In a bowl, mix mayonnaise, paprika, garlic powder, pickle juice, salt, and pepper.
- Spread the seasoned mayo on the buns.
- Layer onion slices, pickle slices, tomato, chicken, and lettuce on the bottom bun.
- Top with the other half of the bun and serve.