This Chopped Chicken Bacon Ranch Sandwich is a tasty meal that’s easy to make! It features tender chicken, crispy bacon, and creamy ranch dressing all piled on a soft bun.
If you’re like me, you can’t resist the crunchy bacon bits! Pile it high with your favorite toppings for an extra yummy bite. Perfect for lunch or a quick dinner!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for this sandwich. If you prefer a different protein, try shredded rotisserie chicken or even turkey.
Bacon: The crispy bacon adds a delicious flavor. If you’re looking for a healthier option, turkey bacon works well too!
Sandwich Rolls: While hoagie buns are perfect, you can use any type of bread you love. Sourdough or whole wheat rolls add a unique twist.
Ranch Dressing: Store-bought ranch dressing is easy, but homemade is even better! Substitute with yogurt or a vinaigrette for a lighter version.
Lettuce and Tomato: I prefer romaine lettuce for crunch, but any leafy greens like spinach or arugula are great too. Cherry tomatoes can be used instead of a regular tomato for extra sweetness!
How Can I Ensure My Bacon Is Perfectly Crispy?
Crispy bacon is a game-changer in this recipe! To get it just right, follow these steps:
- Use cold bacon straight from the fridge for even cooking.
- Arrange the bacon in a single layer on the foil-lined sheet, with none overlapping.
- Don’t skip draining it on paper towels – this reduces excess grease!
- Keep an eye on it during those last few minutes to avoid burning.
With these tips, you’ll have beautifully crispy bacon to elevate your sandwich!
What’s the Best Way to Cook Chicken for This Sandwich?
Cooking chicken breast so it’s juicy and flavorful is key. Here’s how:
- Start by patting the chicken dry, which helps it sear better.
- Don’t rush it—medium-high heat allows for a nice crust to form while keeping it moist inside.
- Use a meat thermometer for accuracy; the internal temp should reach 165°F (75°C).
- Let the chicken rest for a bit before chopping to keep those juices in.
With these steps, your chicken will be tender and packed with flavor!
Chopped Chicken Bacon Ranch Sandwich
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Sandwich:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 6 slices bacon
- 4 sandwich rolls or hoagie buns
- 1 cup romaine lettuce, chopped
- 1 medium tomato, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious sandwich takes about 20-25 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend about 15 minutes cooking and assembling the ingredients and about 5-10 minutes to get everything ready. Perfect for a quick, hearty meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Bacon:
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lay the bacon slices on a baking sheet lined with foil, making sure they don’t overlap. Bake them until they’re nice and crispy, about 12-15 minutes. Once done, remove them from the oven and place them on paper towels to drain off excess grease. Once they cool, chop them into bite-sized pieces.
2. Cook the Chicken:
While the bacon is cooking, take the chicken breasts and pat them dry with a paper towel. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Rub this mixture evenly over the chicken breasts to season them. Then, heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side until it’s cooked through and no longer pink inside. Let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes, then chop it into bite-sized pieces.
3. Prepare the Veggie Mixture:
In a large bowl, combine the chopped romaine lettuce, diced tomato, and finely chopped red onion. Drizzle in the ranch dressing and toss everything together gently to ensure the veggies are well-coated.
4. Assemble Your Sandwich:
Now it’s time to build your sandwich! Slice the sandwich rolls lengthwise but be careful not to cut all the way through. Start by layering the chopped chicken evenly on the bottom halves of the rolls, followed by the chopped bacon pieces. Next, spoon the ranch-dressed veggie mixture generously over the bacon.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Finally, close the sandwiches with the top halves of the rolls. Your Chopped Chicken Bacon Ranch Sandwiches are ready to be served! Enjoy this flavorful meal that’s perfect for a satisfying lunch or dinner!
Can I Use Leftover Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken or any pre-cooked chicken will save you time. Just chop it up and toss it with the other ingredients as directed in the recipe.
What If I Don’t Have Ranch Dressing?
No worries! You can make a quick homemade version by mixing mayonnaise, buttermilk, and your favorite herbs and spices. Greek yogurt can also serve as a healthier base for a ranch-style dressing.
Can I Prepare This Sandwich in Advance?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prep the chicken and bacon ahead of time. Just store them in airtight containers in the fridge for a day. Assemble your sandwich right before serving to keep it fresh!
How Can I Add More Flavor?
If you want to boost the flavor, consider marinating the chicken a few hours before cooking. You could use a store-bought marinade or mix some spices like cumin, cayenne, or chili powder for a spicy twist!
