Chopped Chicken Bacon Ranch Sub

If you’re looking for a sandwich that combines the savory goodness of chicken, the smoky crunch of bacon, and the creamy delight of ranch dressing, then the Chopped Chicken Bacon Ranch Sub is your go-to. This delicious sub is perfect for a hearty lunch or a casual dinner, making it an ideal choice for family gatherings, picnics, or game day celebrations. The unique blend of flavors and textures in this sandwich will surely impress your taste buds and leave you wanting more.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavor Explosion: The combination of chicken, bacon, and ranch delivers a mouthwatering taste that satisfies any craving.
• Quick to Prepare: With a prep time of just 10 minutes and cook time of 30 minutes, you can whip this up in no time.
• Versatile Meal Option: Enjoy it for lunch, dinner, or even as a party appetizer—this sub fits any occasion.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Loved by both kids and adults alike, it’s sure to be a hit at your next gathering.
• Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to add your favorite toppings or swap out ingredients based on your preferences.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Chopped Chicken Bacon Ranch Sub perfectly, having the right tools is essential. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Griddle or Grill
• Skillet
• Cutting Board
• Knife
• Mixing Bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Griddle or Grill: Perfect for cooking chicken thighs evenly while achieving that delicious grilled flavor.
• Skillet: Ideal for frying bacon to crispy perfection without much hassle.
• Cutting Board: Provides a safe space to chop ingredients while keeping your kitchen tidy.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 4 boneless, skinless grilled chicken thighs (or any cooked chicken you prefer)

For the Bacon

• 6 pieces of crispy thick cut bacon

For the Vegetables

• 6 slices of tomato
• 2 cups shredded lettuce

For Flavoring

• 1/4 cup ranch dressing
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon pepper

For Cheese & Seasoning

• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose BBQ rub

For the Roll

• 4 toasted sub rolls

How to Make Chopped Chicken Bacon Ranch Sub

Step 1: Season and Grill Chicken

First season your chicken thighs with an all-purpose BBQ rub. Grill them at medium-high heat until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.

Step 2: Cook the Bacon

Cook the bacon in a skillet until crispy. While the bacon cooks, toast your sub rolls on the grill until golden brown.

Step 3: Chop Ingredients

On a cutting board, add a base layer of shredded lettuce. Then add chopped chicken, crispy bacon, and sliced tomatoes. Chop everything together to ensure it’s well mixed.

Step 4: Add Seasoning and Cheese

Season with salt and pepper. Add shredded mozzarella cheese and ranch dressing.

Step 5: Final Mix

Chop and mix one more time to fully incorporate all ingredients together.

Step 6: Assemble Your Sub

Scoop a generous portion of the chopped mixture onto each toasted sub roll. Serve immediately and enjoy!

How to Serve Chopped Chicken Bacon Ranch Sub

The Chopped Chicken Bacon Ranch Sub is not just a meal; it’s an experience. You can serve it in various ways to enhance its deliciousness and appeal to your guests. Here are some serving suggestions that will elevate this tasty sandwich.

With Extra Crunch

• Potato Chips: Offer a side of crispy potato chips for that perfect crunch.
• Pickles: Add some tangy pickles for a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors.

As a Platter

• Sandwich Platter: Cut the subs into smaller pieces for easy sharing at parties.
• Veggie Tray: Pair with fresh vegetables and ranch dip for a healthy crunch.

With Dips

• Extra Ranch Dressing: Serve additional ranch dressing on the side for those who love extra creaminess.
• Buffalo Sauce: A drizzle of buffalo sauce can add an exciting kick to each bite.

On a Bed of Greens

• Salad Base: Serve the chopped mixture over a bed of mixed greens for a lighter option.

SAVE THIS!

How to Perfect Chopped Chicken Bacon Ranch Sub

To create the best Chopped Chicken Bacon Ranch Sub, keep these tips in mind. Each step will help you bring out the full flavors of this delightful sandwich.

• Choose Quality Chicken: Use fresh, high-quality chicken thighs for better flavor and moisture.
• Crispy Bacon is Key: Ensure your bacon is crispy for that perfect texture contrast.
• Fresh Ingredients Matter: Opt for ripe tomatoes and fresh lettuce to enhance the flavor profile.
• Customize Your Toppings: Feel free to add your favorite toppings like jalapeños or avocado for extra flair.
• Don’t Skip Toasting Rolls: Toasting the sub rolls adds an essential crunch and prevents sogginess.
• Let It Rest Before Serving: Allow the chopped mixture to sit for a few minutes before serving to let flavors meld.

Best Side Dishes for Chopped Chicken Bacon Ranch Sub

Pairing side dishes with your Chopped Chicken Bacon Ranch Sub can make your meal even more enjoyable. Here’s a list of fantastic sides that complement this scrumptious sandwich.

1. Coleslaw: A creamy coleslaw adds crunch and balances the richness of the sub.
2. French Fries: Crispy fries are always a hit and pair perfectly with any sandwich.
3. Sweet Potato Wedges: Baked sweet potato wedges offer a sweet contrast to savory flavors.
4. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn brings seasonal sweetness and texture.
5. Macaroni Salad: A cold pasta salad provides a creamy, refreshing side option.
6. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad offers freshness and balances out heavier elements of the meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making a Chopped Chicken Bacon Ranch Sub, it’s easy to overlook certain details that can affect the taste and texture. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for.

• Skipping the seasoning: Not seasoning your chicken properly can lead to bland flavors. Always use a good rub or seasoning mix for maximum flavor.
• Overcooking the bacon: Cooking bacon too long can make it chewy instead of crispy. Aim for a golden-brown color for the best texture.
• Using stale bread: Old or stale sub rolls will ruin your sandwich experience. Always use fresh, toasted rolls for optimal enjoyment.
• Neglecting ingredient proportions: Using too much ranch dressing can overpower other flavors. Measure carefully to balance the ingredients.
• Not chopping evenly: Unevenly chopped ingredients can lead to an inconsistent bite. Take your time to chop everything uniformly for a better texture.

SAVE THIS!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Chopped Chicken Bacon Ranch Sub

• Wrap tightly in foil or plastic wrap before placing in a freezer-safe bag.
• Can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Chopped Chicken Bacon Ranch Sub

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and heat wrapped in foil for about 15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently to avoid sogginess.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over medium heat, covering with a lid until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about the Chopped Chicken Bacon Ranch Sub that can help you make this delicious sandwich even better.

Can I use leftover chicken for the Chopped Chicken Bacon Ranch Sub?

Yes! Leftover chicken works perfectly and adds convenience to your meal prep.

What kind of bacon should I use?

Thick-cut bacon is recommended as it provides a nice crunch and flavor balance with the chicken.

How do I customize my Chopped Chicken Bacon Ranch Sub?

Feel free to add avocado, jalapeños, or different cheeses based on your taste preferences!

Is there a vegetarian version of the Chopped Chicken Bacon Ranch Sub?

Absolutely! Substitute grilled vegetables or tofu for chicken and use veggie bacon for a tasty alternative.

Final Thoughts

The Chopped Chicken Bacon Ranch Sub is not only flavorful but also versatile. You can customize it with various toppings and ingredients to suit your taste. Whether you’re enjoying it for lunch or dinner, this sub is bound to impress family and friends. Give it a try and discover how delightful it can be!