How to Make a Chicken Bacon Ranch Sandwich, Easy Recipe

Chicken Bacon Ranch Sandwich combines tender grilled chicken, crispy bacon, and creamy ranch dressing on a toasted roll for a taste sensation that will leave you wanting more.

From marinating the chicken to perfectly grilling it to crispy perfection, to layering the ingredients just right, we’ll guide you through every stage of the process to ensure you end up with a sandwich that is as visually appealing as it is delectable. With our easy-to-follow instructions, you’ll be enjoying a homemade chicken bacon ranch sandwich that rivals those found in your favorite restaurants.

Ingredients needed for the chicken bacon ranch sandwich

To make a mouthwatering chicken bacon ranch sandwich, you’ll need the following ingredients:

1. Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2. Bacon strips
3. Ranch dressing
4. Lettuce leaves
5. Tomato slices
6. Red onion slices
7. Sliced cheese (optional)
8. Salt and pepper
9. Olive oil
10. Sandwich rolls

Preparing the chicken for the sandwich

1. Start by marinating the chicken breasts. In a bowl, mix together olive oil, salt, pepper, and any additional seasonings you desire. Coat the chicken breasts with the marinade, making sure they are evenly covered. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.
2. Heat a grill pan or outdoor grill over medium-high heat. Once hot, place the marinated chicken breasts onto the grill. Cook for about 6-8 minutes on each side or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This ensures the chicken is fully cooked and safe to eat.
3. Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes to allow the juices to redistribute. Then, slice the chicken breasts into thin, even slices.

Cooking the bacon for the sandwich

1. While the chicken is grilling, cook the bacon in a separate pan over medium heat. Place the bacon strips in a single layer and cook until crispy, flipping them occasionally to ensure even cooking. This usually takes around 8-10 minutes, depending on the thickness of the bacon.
2. Once the bacon is cooked to your desired crispiness, transfer it to a paper towel-lined plate to drain off any excess grease. Blot the bacon with another paper towel to remove any remaining grease. Crumble the bacon into small pieces or leave them in strips, depending on your preference.

Assembling the chicken bacon ranch sandwich

1. Take your sandwich rolls and slice them in half horizontally. If desired, lightly toast the rolls for added texture and flavor.
2. Spread a generous amount of ranch dressing on the bottom half of each roll. This creamy and tangy dressing will perfectly complement the other ingredients.
3. Layer the grilled chicken slices on top of the ranch dressing. Make sure to evenly distribute the chicken to ensure every bite is full of flavor.
4. Next, add the crispy bacon on top of the chicken. The smoky and savory taste of bacon will take this sandwich to the next level.
5. Now, it’s time to add some fresh crunch and color. Place lettuce leaves, tomato slices, and red onion slices on top of the bacon. These ingredients provide a refreshing and crisp contrast to the other flavors.
6. If you’re a cheese lover, add a slice of your favorite cheese on top of the vegetables. This step is optional but can add a delicious melty element to the sandwich.
7. Finally, place the top half of the roll on the sandwich, pressing lightly to secure all the ingredients together.

Adding additional ingredients and toppings

Feel free to get creative and add additional ingredients or toppings to customize your chicken bacon ranch sandwich. Here are some ideas to consider:

• Avocado slices
• Pickles
• Jalapenos
• Mustard

Variations and substitutions for the chicken bacon ranch sandwich

While the classic chicken bacon ranch sandwich is already amazing, you can always experiment with different variations and substitutions to suit your taste preferences or dietary restrictions. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

• Grilled chicken: Instead of marinating and grilling the chicken, you can use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken or even crispy chicken tenders for a different texture and flavor.
• Turkey bacon: If you prefer a leaner option, swap out the bacon for turkey bacon. It still provides a smoky taste without the extra fat.
• Vegan or vegetarian options: Substitute the chicken with grilled tofu or tempeh for a plant-based alternative. Use vegan bacon strips and dairy-free ranch dressing to make it completely vegan.

Tips for making the perfect chicken bacon ranch sandwich

• The longer you marinate the chicken, the more flavorful it will be. Aim for at least 30 minutes, but overnight marination can result in even tastier chicken.
• Make sure your grill is properly preheated before adding the chicken. This will give you those beautiful grill marks and a juicy, tender interior.
• For extra crispy bacon, cook it in the oven instead of on the stovetop. Lay the bacon strips on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
• To toast the rolls, you can use a toaster or place them cut-side down on a hot skillet for a minute or two until they turn golden and slightly crispy.
• When layering the ingredients, start with the wetter ingredients like ranch dressing and follow with the drier ingredients to prevent the bread from becoming soggy.
• If you’re adding cheese to your sandwich, place it on top of the chicken while it’s still warm. This will help melt the cheese slightly, enhancing the overall taste and texture.

Enjoy!