Chef Mitchell preparing Grilled Chicken Bacon Sub
👨‍🍳 Expert Chef

Recipe by Mitchell

🎓 10+ Years Experience ⏰ 1000+ Recipes Created 🍽️ Culinary School Graduate

❤️ My Recipe Story

"I discovered the Grilled Chicken Bacon Sub while experimenting with flavors in my kitchen. The combination of grilled chicken and crispy bacon intrigued me, and after several attempts, I perfected this recipe. It's a hit at family gatherings and always brings compliments. I love how versatile it is, allowing for different toppings and sauces!"

Chef Mitchell has over a decade of experience specializing in American cuisine. He has a passion for creating delicious lunch recipes that are both easy to prepare and satisfying. His extensive background in culinary arts ensures that each recipe is crafted with care and expertise.

View All Mitchell's Recipes →
Delicious Grilled Chicken Bacon Sub served on a plate

Why This Grilled Chicken Bacon Sub Recipe Works

This Grilled Chicken Bacon Sub stands out due to its balance of flavors. The smoky bacon complements the juicy grilled chicken, while the fresh vegetables add a crunch. Plus, the signature sauce ties everything together, making each bite a delight. It's an ideal blend of comfort food and fresh ingredients.

The grilling technique enhances the chicken's natural flavors while ensuring it remains tender. Using fresh ingredients elevates the overall taste, and the customizable nature of the sub means you can adjust it to your liking. Overall, this recipe guarantees a satisfying meal.

💡 Professional Tip

For best results, let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes, or even overnight. This allows the flavors to penetrate deeper into the meat. Additionally, ensure your grill is preheated to the right temperature to achieve those beautiful grill marks and a crispy exterior.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, you can prepare the components ahead of time. Grill the chicken and cook the bacon in advance. Store them separately in the fridge. When ready to serve, assemble the sub and add fresh toppings to maintain optimal texture and flavor.

If you prefer, you can substitute the grilled chicken with turkey or even a vegetarian option like grilled portobello mushrooms. Each alternative will provide a unique flavor profile while pairing well with the bacon and toppings.

The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). You can use a meat thermometer to check. Additionally, the chicken should be no longer pink in the center, and the juices should run clear.

It is best to freeze the grilled chicken and bacon separately if you plan to freeze them. The assembled sub may not hold up well when thawed. Store the components in airtight containers and consume within 2-3 months for best quality.

This sub pairs well with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with crispy potato chips, a side salad, or fresh fruit. For a heartier option, sweet potato fries or coleslaw make great companions.

When stored properly in an airtight container, the components can last for up to 3-4 days in the fridge. However, for the best taste and texture, it's recommended to consume them within 2 days.

Yes, you can prep the individual components ahead of time. Cook the chicken and bacon and store them separately. Assemble the sub just before serving to keep everything fresh and maintain its crunchy texture.

The best way to reheat the grilled chicken and bacon is in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. This will keep the chicken moist and the bacon crispy. Avoid microwaving as it can make the bacon soggy.

Recipe Troubleshooting Guide

✅

Too Dry

Problem: If your Grilled Chicken Bacon Sub turns out dry, it may be due to overcooking the chicken.

Solution: To prevent dryness, use a meat thermometer to check for doneness and avoid cooking the chicken past 165°F (75°C). Marinating the chicken can also help retain moisture.

✅

Not Crispy Enough

Problem: If the bacon doesn't turn out crispy, it may not have cooked long enough.

Solution: Ensure to cook the bacon until it is crispy in the skillet or oven, and drain on paper towels to remove excess grease.

✅

Overcooked

Problem: Overcooking the chicken can lead to a tough texture.

Prevention: To avoid overcooking, monitor the cooking time closely and use a thermometer to check the internal temperature.

✅

Undercooked Center

Problem: An undercooked center can be a safety concern.

Recovery: If you suspect the chicken is undercooked, return it to the grill and cook until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

✅

Burnt Exterior

Problem: The outside of the chicken may burn while the inside remains undercooked.

Prevention: To prevent this, grill on medium heat and avoid pressing down on the chicken while cooking, as this can release juices and cause burning.

✅

Flavor Balance

Too Sweet: If the sub is too sweet, consider adding a tangy element like pickles or extra mustard.

Too Salty: If it's too salty, pair it with fresh ingredients like lettuce or tomatoes to balance the flavor.

Bland: For a bland flavor, add more seasoning to the chicken or extra sauce to enhance the taste.

Fresh ingredients for Grilled Chicken Bacon Sub

Essential Ingredients for Grilled Chicken Bacon Sub

The key ingredients in this Grilled Chicken Bacon Sub include fresh chicken breast and crispy bacon. They serve as the foundation of flavor and texture. Veggies like lettuce and tomatoes add freshness, while a creamy sauce ties it all together.

Using high-quality ingredients is crucial for the best results. Opt for fresh produce and good cuts of meat. This ensures that each bite is flavorful and enjoyable, enhancing your overall dining experience.

Essential Ingredient Notes

  • Chicken Breast: Choose boneless, skinless chicken breasts for ease of cooking. Marinate for extra flavor and moisture, and ensure not to overcook for the best texture.
  • Bacon: Use thick-cut bacon for a heartier bite and better crispiness. Cooking it slowly allows for even rendering of fat, resulting in that perfect crunchy texture.
  • Sub Rolls: Select fresh sub rolls that are soft yet sturdy enough to hold the ingredients. Toasting them lightly can enhance flavor and add a delightful crunch.
Cooking process for Grilled Chicken Bacon Sub

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

The cooking process involves marinating the chicken, grilling it to perfection, and preparing crispy bacon. Each step is designed to build layers of flavor.

By following the steps carefully and using the right techniques, you can achieve a juicy chicken and crispy bacon, ensuring a delicious sub that everyone will love.

Key Technique for Perfect Grilled Chicken Bacon Sub

Marinating the chicken is the key technique in this recipe. It not only infuses flavor but also helps maintain moisture during the grilling process. Pairing it with perfectly cooked bacon creates a balance of textures and tastes.

Grilled Chicken Bacon Sub

Prep 15 min
Cook 45 min
Serves 6 servings
Level Easy

📋 Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup butter
    Room temperature
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
    For creaminess
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
    For tang
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
    For freshness
  • 1 tablespoon honey
    For sweetness
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
    For flavor

For the Sauce

  • 2 lbs chicken
    Cut into pieces
  • 6 sub rolls
    For assembly
  • 8 slices of bacon
    Cooked crispy
  • 1 cup shredded lettuce
    For crunch
  • 1 cup sliced tomatoes
    For freshness
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
    For creaminess
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
    For tang
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
    For marinating
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
    For flavor
  • Salt and pepper to taste
    For seasoning

Instructions

  1. Prepare Ingredients

    Marinate the chicken pieces in olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper for at least 30 minutes.

  2. Cook the Bacon

    In a skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon slices until crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels.

  3. Grill the Chicken

    Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Grill the marinated chicken for about 5-7 minutes on each side or until fully cooked.

  4. Prepare the Sauce

    In a bowl, mix mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice until smooth.

  5. Assemble the Sub

    Slice the sub rolls in half and spread the sauce on the inside. Layer with grilled chicken, crispy bacon, lettuce, tomatoes, and cheese.

  6. Add Green Onions

    Sprinkle chopped green onions over the top of the layered ingredients.

  7. Drizzle with Barbecue Sauce

    Finish by drizzling barbecue sauce over the assembled sub.

  8. Serve

    Cut the sub into halves or thirds and serve with chips or a side salad.

Recipe Notes & Tips

Storage Tips

To store leftover Grilled Chicken Bacon Sub, wrap it in foil or place it in an airtight container. Refrigerate and consume within 3-4 days for the best taste. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Grilled Chicken Bacon Sub with crunchy potato chips, a light salad, or fresh fruit for a balanced meal. This sub is also great for picnics or packed lunches.

Recipe Variations

Feel free to customize this sub with different proteins or toppings. Try adding avocado, different cheeses, or spicy sauces for a unique twist. You can also make it with turkey bacon or a vegetarian substitute.