Grilled Chicken Hero Recipe

Prepare the marinade

Mince the garlic. In a medium bowl or resealable bag combine 2 tbsp olive oil, 1 tbsp lemon juice, minced garlic, 1 tsp dried oregano, 1/2 tsp smoked paprika, 1 tsp kosher salt and 1/2 tsp black pepper. Whisk or shake to emulsify.

Marinate chicken

If breasts are thick, butterfly or pound to an even 1/2-inch thickness. Add 1 lb chicken breasts to the bowl or bag, turning to coat thoroughly. Marinate at room temperature for 15 minutes or refrigerate for up to 2 hours (longer will make chicken more tender and flavorful).

Preheat grill or skillet

Preheat an outdoor grill to medium-high (about 400°F / 200°C) or heat a heavy skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat and lightly oil the surface.

Grill the chicken

Remove chicken from marinade, letting excess drip off. Place on the hot grill or pan. Cook 4–6 minutes per side, until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and juices run clear. Avoid moving too much so you get a light char. Total cooking time depends on thickness.

Rest and slice

Transfer chicken to a cutting board and let rest 5 minutes. Slice thinly across the grain into pieces roughly 1/4-inch thick for easy sandwich assembly.

Prep the roll

Split the hero roll lengthwise but keep the two halves attached at the back if preferred. Lightly brush the cut faces with 1 tsp olive oil (optional) and place face-down on the grill or in the skillet for 1–2 minutes until toasted and lightly golden.

Mix sandwich spread

In a small bowl combine 2 tbsp mayonnaise and 1 tsp Dijon mustard. Spread evenly on both cut sides of the toasted roll.

Assemble the hero

On the bottom half of the roll layer provolone slices, then arrange the sliced grilled chicken evenly over the cheese. Add shredded romaine, sliced tomato, thin red onion slices, and 2 tbsp sliced pepperoncini. Season the tomato and lettuce lightly with 1/4 tsp salt and 1/8 tsp black pepper.

Finish and serve

If you like, sprinkle 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes over the chicken for heat. Close the sandwich, press gently, and slice in half. Serve immediately while warm.