As I stood in my kitchen, the sizzle of bacon filled the air, igniting a craving for something deliciously comforting. Enter my Chopped Chicken Bacon Ranch Sub—a quick meal that transforms simple ingredients into a flavor-packed experience! Picture grilled chicken, crispy bacon, and fresh veggies mingling with creamy ranch dressing, all stacked high in a toasted sub roll. Not only is it a customizable treat perfect for any occasion, but it also delivers satisfying textures and tastes that will have your family asking for seconds. Plus, it’s a breeze to whip up on busy weeknights! Are you ready to delve into a sandwich that brings BBQ flare and endless possibilities? Let’s dive into this recipe that promises to become a staple in your culinary repertoire!
Why Is This Sub So Adored?
Quick and Easy: Creating this delectable sandwich takes mere minutes, perfect for those hectic weeknights when you’re short on time.
Flavor Explosion: Imagine the savory blend of grilled chicken, crispy bacon, and creamy ranch dressing all mingling together.
Customizable Delights: Feel free to swap ingredients and adjust flavors to suit your taste—try different dressings or add in fresh veggies as you like!
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this sub satisfies everyone’s cravings and ensures happy faces.
Perfect Pairing: Serve with a side of homemade Honey Bacon Roasted potatoes for an unforgettable meal!
This Chopped Chicken Bacon Ranch Sub is a winning choice that combines convenience with mouthwatering flavors that everyone loves!
Chopped Chicken Bacon Ranch Sub Ingredients
For the Chicken
• Grilled Chicken – Use thighs for deeper flavor or opt for rotisserie chicken for quick prep.
For the Toppings
• Bacon – Thick-cut bacon delivers the best crunch and smoky flavor.
• Ranch Dressing – Store-bought or homemade, this creamy dressing enhances the sub’s taste.
• Lettuce – Shredded iceberg or romaine adds fresh crunch to each bite.
• Tomato – Use ripe, fresh tomatoes for juiciness; slice them thin for easy layering.
• Mozzarella Cheese – This cheese melts beautifully; feel free to swap with cheddar if preferred.
For the Base
• Sub Rolls – Fresh bakery rolls or toasted sub rolls create the perfect foundation for your sandwich.
Embrace the deliciousness of this Chopped Chicken Bacon Ranch Sub and enjoy its customizable nature!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chopped Chicken Bacon Ranch Sub
Step 1: Grill the Chicken
Begin by seasoning your chicken thighs with your favorite BBQ rub. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, around 375°F. Place the chicken on the grill and cook for about 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the internal temperature reads 165°F. The chicken should have nice grill marks and be juicy. Once done, let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
Step 2: Cook the Bacon
While the chicken is grilling, heat a skillet over medium heat and add the thick-cut bacon strips. Cook the bacon for about 5-7 minutes or until it achieves a crispy texture, flipping occasionally. Once crispy, transfer the bacon to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess grease. Let it cool slightly before chopping it into bite-sized pieces.
Step 3: Prepare the Vegetables
As the chicken and bacon are cooking, take a moment to prepare your fresh toppings for the Chopped Chicken Bacon Ranch Sub. Shred the iceberg or romaine lettuce and slice the ripe tomatoes thinly. Arrange them on a cutting board and set aside, allowing the vibrant colors and fresh aromas to entice your senses as you move to the next steps.
Step 4: Chop the Ingredients
Once your chicken is grilled and rested, chop it into small, uniform pieces on your cutting board. Add the crispy bacon and a generous drizzle of ranch dressing to the same cutting board. Using a sharp knife, chop everything together to mix the flavors thoroughly, ensuring that each bite is packed with the savory goodness of your grilled chicken and crispy bacon.
Step 5: Combine and Season
Transfer the chopped mixture into a mixing bowl, then add in the shredded mozzarella cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste, mixing everything well to ensure the creamy ranch dressing evenly coats the chicken, bacon, and cheese. This tasty combination is now ready to be stuffed into your sub rolls!
Step 6: Assemble the Sandwiches
To create your Chopped Chicken Bacon Ranch Sub, take your toasted sub rolls and scoop generous portions of the chicken-bacon mixture into each roll. Ensure that each roll is filled to the brim with the flavorful filling. You can serve immediately as a satisfying meal or refrigerate the assembled sandwiches until you’re ready to enjoy a delightful lunch or dinner with family.
Expert Tips for Chopped Chicken Bacon Ranch Sub
• Chicken Quality: Choose high-quality chicken for the best flavor. Using marinated or spiced chicken enhances the BBQ flavor and overall experience.
• Bacon Crispiness: Cook bacon long enough to reach the perfect crisp, as chewy bacon can affect the sub’s texture. Thick-cut bacon holds up better in the filling too!
• Veggie Freshness: Always use fresh produce to elevate the sub. Wilted lettuce or overripe tomatoes can ruin the delightful crunch and taste of your Chopped Chicken Bacon Ranch Sub.
• Assembly Tip: For a mess-free experience, assemble the sub just before serving. This keeps the bread from getting soggy, ensuring a delightful crunch in every bite.
• Storage Advice: If making ahead, store the filling separately from the bread. This keeps everything fresh and delicious when you’re ready to enjoy your sub!
Make Ahead Options
These Chopped Chicken Bacon Ranch Subs are fantastic for meal prep lovers! To save precious time, you can grill the chicken and cook the bacon up to 3 days in advance; simply refrigerate them in airtight containers to maintain their freshness. You can also chop the lettuce, tomatoes, and cheese ahead of time, storing them separately to keep the veggies crisp. When you’re ready to serve, combine the chicken, bacon, ranch dressing, and cheese, then fill the toasted sub rolls just before enjoying. This simple prep allows you to create a delicious meal with minimal effort, ensuring your family enjoys a flavorful, satisfying sandwich whenever they crave it!
Chopped Chicken Bacon Ranch Sub Variations
Feel free to explore these delightful twists on the classic Chopped Chicken Bacon Ranch Sub!
-
BBQ Twist: Replace ranch dressing with your favorite BBQ sauce for a smokier flavor. This adds a rich depth that complements the chicken beautifully.
-
Vegetarian Option: Use grilled portobello mushrooms or grilled eggplant instead of chicken for a robust taste that even meat lovers will enjoy.
-
Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce to elevate the heat in your sandwich. The spice will awaken your taste buds, making every bite exciting.
-
Cheesy Heaven: Swap mozzarella for pepper jack cheese or add a sprinkle of feta for an added layer of creaminess. The melty texture enhances each mouthful.
-
Herb-Infused: Incorporate fresh herbs like basil or cilantro into the filling for a burst of freshness. These herbs will brighten the flavors and add an aromatic quality to your sub.
-
Crunchy Extras: Toss in some crushed tortilla chips or crispy fried onions for additional crunch. This contrast of textures will elevate the sandwich experience and keep it interesting.
-
Avocado Delight: Add creamy avocado slices to create a luscious texture and a hint of richness. This twist not only enhances flavor but also boosts nutrition.
For those looking for more chicken options, why not check out my Greek Chicken Gyro or indulge in the comforting warmth of Chicken Wellington Effortlessly? Let your imagination run wild with each of these variations!
Storage Tips for Chopped Chicken Bacon Ranch Sub
Fridge: Store any leftover assembled sandwiches in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep individual ingredients separate if possible to maintain freshness.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the filling tightly in plastic wrap or place it in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Warm the filling in the microwave or on the stovetop, and toast the sub rolls just before serving to revive that delightful crunch.
Make-Ahead: Prepare the filling in advance and keep it refrigerated for up to 2 days. Assemble the Chopped Chicken Bacon Ranch Sub right before serving for the best flavor and freshness.
What to Serve with Chopped Chicken Bacon Ranch Sub
Serving the perfect side dish can elevate your Chopped Chicken Bacon Ranch Sub experience to new culinary heights!
- Crispy Sweet Potato Fries: Their subtle sweetness and crunch beautifully complement the savory flavors of your sub, making for a fun finger food pairing.
- Fresh Garden Salad: A light and refreshing salad adds a burst of color and crispness, enhancing each bite of your hearty sandwich—perfect with a tangy vinaigrette.
- Garlic Parmesan Chips: Crunchy, cheesy delights that add a satisfying texture contrast and earthy flavors to the overall meal. A delicious shareable option!
- Coleslaw: The creamy, tangy crunch of coleslaw offers a delightful contrast to the sandwich’s rich flavors, making every bite a balanced treat.
- Grilled Vegetables: Roasted bell peppers and zucchini provide a smoky flavor that pairs beautifully with the BBQ notes of the chopped chicken and bacon.
- Apple Slices with Caramel Dip: For a sweet finish, crunchy apple slices paired with a creamy caramel dip create a lovely contrast to the savory sandwich.
- Lemonade or Iced Tea: Refreshing drinks like homemade lemonade or sweet iced tea can balance the flavors beautifully and keep your meal refreshing.
With these pairings, you can create a complete meal that your family will love!
Chopped Chicken Bacon Ranch Sub Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken should I use for the best flavor?
Absolutely! For your Chopped Chicken Bacon Ranch Sub, chicken thighs are a fantastic choice due to their juiciness and flavor. However, if you’re short on time, using rotisserie chicken is a convenient option that still delivers great taste!
How should I store leftovers of my Chopped Chicken Bacon Ranch Sub?
After your delicious meal, store any leftover assembled sandwiches in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want them to stay fresh, consider keeping the filling and bread separate. This way, your sub rolls maintain their delightful crunch until you’re ready to dig in!
Can I freeze the filling for my sandwich?
Very! Freezing is a great way to prolong the life of your sandwich filling. Wrap the chopped chicken and bacon mixture tightly in plastic wrap or use a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When ready, thaw it overnight in the fridge, reheat gently, and you’ll be enjoying your Chopped Chicken Bacon Ranch Sub in no time!
How can I ensure my bacon stays crispy in the sandwich?
The secret lies in the cooking! Cook the bacon to a perfect crisp—about 5-7 minutes on medium heat should do it. Let the bacon drain on paper towels after cooking to absorb excess grease before chopping it into pieces. This will keep the texture intact when mixed into your sub.
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Absolutely! If you’re cooking for someone with allergies, be mindful of common allergens like dairy in the ranch dressing or gluten in sub rolls. For a gluten-free option, use lettuce leaves to wrap your filling or seek out gluten-free sub rolls. Additionally, feel free to customize the ingredients to meet various dietary needs—like opting for turkey bacon or a lighter dressing.
Chopped Chicken Bacon Ranch Sub: Your Ultimate Flavor Fix
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Season chicken thighs with your favorite BBQ rub. Preheat grill to medium-high heat (around 375°F). Grill chicken for about 25-30 minutes, turning halfway, until internal temp is 165°F. Let rest for a few minutes before slicing.
- While the chicken is grilling, heat a skillet over medium heat and add thick-cut bacon strips. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until crispy. Transfer to paper towels to drain excess grease and let cool before chopping.
- Prepare fresh toppings: shred lettuce and slice tomatoes thinly. Arrange on a cutting board.
- Chop grilled chicken into small pieces. Add crispy bacon and ranch dressing, then chop everything together to mix flavors.
- Transfer mixture to a bowl, add shredded mozzarella cheese, and season with salt and pepper. Mix well.
- Stuff the chopped chicken-bacon mixture into toasted sub rolls. Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to enjoy.
Leave a Reply