When it comes to quick and satisfying meals, nothing beats the appeal of a well-made grilled chicken sandwich. This 30-Minute Grilled Chicken Sandwich is not only super easy to prepare but also packs a punch of flavor with every bite. The combination of tender grilled chicken, garlic butter sourdough, fresh veggies, and a zingy lemon-Dijon mayo elevates this sandwich from just a meal to a delightful culinary experience. Perfect for the hustle and bustle of everyday life, it’s a go-to option for lunch, dinner, or meal prep.
This grilled chicken sandwich brings together a lovely balance of juicy chicken and crispy fresh vegetables, all wrapped in a golden, toasty sourdough bread. Not to mention, it’s a low-calorie option, making it perfect for anyone looking to maintain a healthy diet without sacrificing taste. In only 30 minutes, you can whip up a dish that will impress your family and friends without spending too long in the kitchen. Whether you’re throwing a summer BBQ or just enjoying a quiet meal at home, this sandwich is sure to become a favorite!
Why You’ll Love This 30-Minute Grilled Chicken Sandwich
- Quick & Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- Flavorful: Juicy grilled chicken seasoned to perfection with garlic butter and spices.
- Fresh Ingredients: Loaded with crisp lettuce and ripe tomatoes for a refreshing crunch.
- Customizable: Easily swap out ingredients to create your perfect sandwich.
- Low Calorie: A healthy choice packed with protein without the extra calories.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before you dive into making your scrumptious grilled chicken sandwiches, it’s vital to prep your workspace effectively. Start by gathering all your ingredients and tools to ensure a smooth cooking process. You will need a sharp knife for slicing the chicken, a grill or grill pan, and a small saucepan for melting the garlic butter. Having everything at your fingertips not only speeds up the cooking time but also keeps things organized and enjoyable.
Make sure to preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat so it reaches the right temperature while you prepare the chicken. Additionally, keep a cutting board handy for slicing the chicken and preparing your vegetables. A spatula will be essential for flipping the chicken on the grill, and a small mixing bowl will help you whip up the lemon-Dijon mayo easily.
Ingredients
- 4 slices thick-cut sourdough bread
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
- 2 large vine-ripened tomatoes, sliced
- 4 large romaine or butter lettuce leaves
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by slicing the chicken breasts horizontally to create four thin cutlets. This helps them cook more evenly and quickly. Once they are sliced, rub each piece generously with olive oil, paprika, salt, pepper, and chili flakes if you desire a bit of heat. Allow the chicken to rest for about 10 minutes — this not only enhances the flavor but also helps the seasonings adhere better.
Step 2: Grill the Chicken
Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Once hot, place the chicken cutlets on the grill. Cook them for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are fully cooked through and boast some nice grill marks. Be attentive during this step; you want them juicy and delicious, not overcooked. Once finished, set the chicken aside to rest while you prepare the rest of the sandwich.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter
In a small saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over low heat. As it begins to melt, stir in the minced garlic and chopped fresh parsley. This combination not only adds a rich, savory flavor but also elevates the entire sandwich experience. Keep the heat low to prevent the garlic from burning, which can lead to a bitter taste.
Step 4: Prepare the Sourdough Bread
Brush both sides of each slice of sourdough bread with the garlic butter mixture you’ve just prepared. This adds a delightful flavor and ensures your bread toasts beautifully. Heat a skillet over medium heat and place the buttered slices in the pan. Toast them for a few minutes on each side, until they are golden brown and crispy. You want that perfect crunch to complement the soft ingredients inside the sandwich.
Step 5: Mix the Lemon-Dijon Mayo
Now, in a small mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and freshly squeezed lemon juice. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well combined. This zesty mayo will add a refreshing touch to each bite of your sandwich and balance the richness of the grilled chicken perfectly. Make sure to spread enough on each slice of the toasted bread for an extra kick of flavor.
Step 6: Assemble the Sandwich
It’s time to bring your sandwich together! Start by placing one slice of toasted sourdough on a plate. Spread your lemon-Dijon mayo on one side, then layer it generously with crisp lettuce leaves, followed by the grilled chicken cutlet and slices of ripe tomato. If you’re feeling especially hungry, you can double-stack the layers. Top it all off with another slice of toasted sourdough, spread with more mayo on the other side, and gently press down. Serve warm and enjoy!
Variations
- Protein: Swap the chicken for grilled turkey breast or a plant-based protein like tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian option.
- Vegetables: Add sliced cucumbers or red onions for an extra crunch or layer in some avocado for creaminess.
- Spices: Experiment with different spices like cayenne pepper or Italian herbs for varied flavor profiles.
Cooking Notes
- Always let grilled chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking. This allows the juices to redistribute for a tastier sandwich.
- If you prefer, you can marinate the chicken cutlets in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs beforehand to enhance flavor.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair your grilled chicken sandwich with a side of sweet potato fries for a wholesome meal.
- Consider a simple garden salad to complement the sandwich and add extra nutrition.
Tips
- Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor. Vine-ripened tomatoes and crunchy lettuce make a significant difference in taste.
- Adjust the mayo mixture to suit your taste; add more mustard for a tangier bite or spice it up with hot sauce for additional heat.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 30g
- Sodium: 600mg
FAQs
Can I make this sandwich ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the grilled chicken and assemble the sandwich components. It’s best to store everything separately and assemble just before serving for optimal freshness.
What can I use instead of sourdough bread?
If sourdough is not available, any thick-cut bread like ciabatta or whole grain would work wonderfully as well.
How can I make this sandwich gluten-free?
To make a gluten-free version, simply substitute sourdough bread with gluten-free bread. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
Can I grill vegetables with the chicken?
Absolutely! Grilled vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms would be a fantastic addition to this sandwich.
Conclusion
This 30-Minute Grilled Chicken Sandwich is more than just a quick meal; it’s an explosion of flavor that brings summer vibes to your dining table. With its tender grilled chicken, a delightful spread of zesty mayo, and fresh toppings, you’ll find yourself reaching for seconds! This sandwich is versatile enough to allow for various ingredient swaps, so you can tailor it to suit your taste preferences.
Encourage your family and friends to join in on the fun by sharing this recipe. Try it out during your next meal prep, lunch, or a casual dinner. Don’t forget to experiment with variations to keep each experience exciting. We would love to hear how your version turns out!
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30-Minute Grilled Chicken Sandwich
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This 30-Minute Grilled Chicken Sandwich is a flavorful and quick meal that brings summer vibes to your dining table.
Ingredients
- 4 slices thick-cut sourdough bread
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
- 2 large vine-ripened tomatoes, sliced
- 4 large romaine or butter lettuce leaves
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice
Instructions
- Start by slicing the chicken breasts horizontally to create four thin cutlets. This helps them cook more evenly and quickly. Once they are sliced, rub each piece generously with olive oil, paprika, salt, pepper, and chili flakes if you desire a bit of heat. Allow the chicken to rest for about 10 minutes.
- Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Once hot, place the chicken cutlets on the grill. Cook them for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked through.
- In a small saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over low heat. Stir in the minced garlic and chopped fresh parsley.
- Brush both sides of each slice of sourdough bread with the garlic butter mixture. Heat a skillet over medium heat and toast the buttered slices.
- In a small mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice. Stir until smooth.
- Assemble your sandwich starting with a slice of toasted sourdough, spreading the lemon-Dijon mayo, followed by lettuce, grilled chicken, and tomato. Add another slice of toasted bread on top.
Notes
Always let grilled chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking to enhance flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Lunch
Nutrition
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Protein: 30 g