Chicken Club Recipe

Pound and season

Pat the chicken breasts dry. If breasts are very thick, butterfly or place between plastic and pound to about 3/4" thickness for even cooking. Rub both sides with 1 tablespoon olive oil, 1 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp black pepper, and 1/2 tsp garlic powder.

Cook chicken

Heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Add remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil. When hot, add chicken and cook 5–6 minutes per side, until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and exterior is nicely browned. Transfer to a cutting board and let rest 5 minutes, then slice into 1/4" thick pieces suitable for stacking.

While chicken cooks (or in an oven), cook bacon until crisp: in a skillet over medium heat, fry bacon strips 6–8 minutes, turning as needed, until crisp. Drain on paper towels. Alternatively, bake 400°F (200°C) on a sheet for 12–15 minutes. Keep warm.

Toast bread slices in a toaster or under broiler until golden and lightly crisp, about 1–2 minutes per side under broiler; watch closely to prevent burning.

In a small bowl combine 3/4 cup mayonnaise, 1 tsp Dijon mustard, 1 tsp lemon juice, 1/4 tsp smoked paprika, 1/4 tsp salt, and 1/8 tsp black pepper. Whisk until smooth and adjust seasoning to taste. Set aside.

Lay out 3 slices of toasted bread for each sandwich (makes 2 sandwiches using 6 slices). On the bottom slice spread about 1 tablespoon of the mayonnaise mixture. Top with 2–3 lettuce leaves, a layer of sliced chicken (about half the cooked breast per sandwich), 2 slices of cheddar cheese, 3 strips of bacon broken to fit, and 3 tomato slices. If using avocado, slice and add 1/2 avocado per sandwich. Place a second toasted slice on top, spread with sauce, then repeat layers (lettuce, chicken, cheese, bacon, tomato) and top with the final toasted slice. Spread remaining sauce on the top slice's interior.

Press sandwich gently, then insert two toothpicks or sandwich picks to hold layers. Using a sharp knife, cut each sandwich into halves or quarters on the diagonal. Serve immediately.

Serve with a side of potato chips, fries, or a simple green salad. Extra sauce can be served on the side for dipping.