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Grilled Chicken Sandwich Recipe

Grilled Chicken Sandwich Recipe - Easy Family Meal

The grilled chicken sandwich is a perennial favorite. It’s a dish that transcends seasons and occasions. I remember the first time I had a perfectly grilled chicken sandwich. 
Sun-soaked summer afternoon, laughter in the air, and the aroma of grilled goodness wafting from the kitchen. That moment sparked a love affair with this dish.
Whether it’s for a casual lunch, a summer BBQ, or a cozy dinner, this sandwich fits right in. It’s almost like an edible hug—comforting and satisfying. 
And the best part? You can whip it up at home, making it healthier and just as delicious as anything you’d find in a restaurant. Let’s explore the ins and outs of creating the ultimate grilled chicken sandwich.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 1123
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the brine:
  • 1 tablespoon whole black peppercorns
  • 6 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 2 quarts filtered water
  • 4 smashed garlic cloves
  • 1/3 cup coarse kosher salt
  • 2 sprigs fresh thyme
  • 1/4 cup white granulated sugar
For the rub:
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian herb blend
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
For the sandwiches:
  • 6 slices Colby-Jack cheese
  • 6 tablespoons creamy mayonnaise
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 12 slices crispy cooked bacon
  • 1 large heirloom tomato, sliced
  • 6 brioche buns, split
  • 6 leaves green leaf lettuce
  • 3 tablespoons vegetable oil

Method
 

Step 1: Brine the Chicken
  1. Brining is crucial. It keeps the chicken juicy. In a large bowl, combine two quarts of water, salt, sugar, peppercorns, garlic, and thyme. Stir until the salt dissolves. Add the chicken breasts, making sure they’re submerged. Cover and refrigerate for 1-2 hours.
Step 2: Prepare the Rub
  1. While the chicken brines, mix your rub ingredients in a small bowl: Italian herbs, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, salt, onion powder, black pepper, and smoked paprika.
    This rub adds layers of flavor that complement the chicken beautifully.
Step 3: Grill the Chicken
  1. Once the chicken has finished brining, remove it from the liquid, pat it dry, and rub the spice blend all over. Preheat your grill over medium-high heat. Add a bit of vegetable oil to the grill grates to prevent sticking.
    Place the chicken on the grill and cook for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Every grill varies, so keep an eye on it.
Step 4: Prepare the Buns and Toppings
  1. While the chicken cooks, lay the brioche buns cut-side down on another section of the grill to toast them lightly. This step enhances the taste and prevents sogginess from the toppings.
    Prepare your toppings: Slice the heirloom tomato, crisp the bacon, and rinse the lettuce leaves.
Step 5: Assemble the Sandwich
  1. Once the chicken is perfectly grilled, layer the sliced chicken breast onto the bottom bun. Top it with crispy bacon, a slice of Colby-Jack cheese, lettuce, and tomato. 
    Spread a generous amount of mayonnaise on the top bun before closing the sandwich.
    For added flair, you can drizzle a bit of olive oil over the veggies.
Step 6: Serve with Style
  1. Cut the sandwiches in half and serve with your chosen sides. Enjoy your homemade creation with a side of pride, knowing you made something delightful from scratch.

Notes

  • Marinate but don’t oversoak: Leave chicken in brine for 1-2 hours or overnight at most. Over-brining can lead to overly salty chicken.
  • Preheat your grill: Make sure the grill is hot before placing your chicken on it to create those beautiful grill marks and seal in juices.
  • Use a meat thermometer: To ensure perfect doneness, a meat thermometer will help you achieve that ideal temperature without guesswork.
  • Let it rest: Allow the grilled chicken to rest for a few minutes before slicing into it. This prevents juices from running out.
  • Experiment with toppings: Feel free to personalize your sandwich with unique ingredients like avocado, jalapenos, or even a pineapple slice for a tropical twist.