Grilled Chicken Sandwich Recipe
A juicy grilled chicken breast topped with lettuce, tomato, and a side of mayo.
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Ingredients
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Chicken & Marinade
Sandwich Build
Method
Chicken & Marinade
Pound and prepare
Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. If breasts are unevenly thick, place each between plastic wrap and gently pound with a meat mallet or rolling pin to an even thickness about 1/2 inch to 3/4 inch. This ensures even cooking.
Make marinade
In a shallow bowl or resealable bag combine 2 tbs olive oil, 1 tbs lemon juice, 1 tsp minced garlic, 1 tsp smoked paprika, 1 tsp dried oregano, 1 tsp kosher salt and 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper. Whisk or shake to emulsify.
Marinate chicken
Add the prepared chicken breasts to the marinade, coating thoroughly. Refrigerate for at least 20 minutes and up to 2 hours. If short on time, proceed after 10–15 minutes — the surface will pick up flavor.
Grill chicken
Remove excess marinade and place chicken on the hot grill or pan. Cook for 4–6 minutes per side, depending on thickness, until an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part reads 165°F (74°C). Avoid flipping more than once. If using cheese, place a slice on each breast during the last minute, cover briefly to melt.
Rest chicken
Transfer cooked chicken to a cutting board and let rest for 5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute. This keeps the chicken juicy when sliced.
Sandwich Build
Prepare buns and vegetables
While the chicken rests, slice the tomato into 1/4-inch rounds and separate the lettuce leaves. Split the buns and lightly butter the cut sides with 1 tsp unsalted butter.
Assemble sandwiches
Spread 2 tsp mayonnaise on the bottom half of each toasted bun and 2 tsp on the top half if desired. Place 1 lettuce leaf (or two small ones) on the mayo, then place the rested grilled chicken breast on each bun. Top the chicken with 2–3 tomato slices. Add optional cheese if not already melted on the chicken. Close the sandwiches with the top buns.
Serve
Cut sandwiches in half if desired and serve immediately with extra mayo on the side. Recommended sides: fries, salad, or chips.