Chopped Chicken Bacon Ranch Sub

Chopped Chicken Bacon Ranch Sub is a delightful sandwich that combines juicy chicken, crispy bacon, fresh vegetables, and creamy ranch dressing. This recipe is perfect for quick meals, casual gatherings, or a satisfying lunch on busy days. With easy preparation and amazing flavor, it will become a favorite among your family and friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: Ready in under 40 minutes, this sub is great for busy weeknights.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of grilled chicken and crispy bacon creates a deliciously satisfying taste.
• Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to swap in your favorite veggies or sauces for a personal touch.
• Feeding a Crowd: Perfect for parties or picnics, this recipe easily scales up to accommodate more people.
• Kid-Friendly: A hit with kids, making it an effortless choice for family meals.

Tools and Preparation

To make the Chopped Chicken Bacon Ranch Sub successfully, having the right tools can streamline the cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill or skillet
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Mixing bowl
• Tongs

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill or skillet: Essential for cooking the chicken and bacon evenly and achieving that delicious crispy texture.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping vegetables and meat without risk of contamination.
• Sharp knife: Ensures clean cuts of chicken and veggies for better presentation and easy assembly.
• Mixing bowl: Helps combine ingredients efficiently before assembling the sub.

Ingredients

For the Chicken and Bacon

• 4 boneless, skinless grilled chicken thighs
• 6 pieces of crispy thick-cut bacon

For the Vegetables

• 6 slices of tomato
• 2 cups shredded lettuce

For Assembly

• 1/4 cup ranch dressing
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon pepper
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose BBQ rub
• 4 toasted sub rolls

How to Make Chopped Chicken Bacon Ranch Sub

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Season the chicken thighs with BBQ rub. Grill them over medium-high heat until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F. Once cooked, let them rest for a few minutes before chopping them into bite-sized pieces.

Step 2: Cook the Bacon

In a skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until crispy. Once done, drain it on paper towels to remove excess grease. Chop the bacon into small pieces.

Step 3: Prepare the Vegetables

While the chicken and bacon are cooking, shred the lettuce and slice the tomatoes. If desired, you can also slice onions for added flavor. Shred or slice the mozzarella cheese if needed.

Step 4: Toast the Sub Rolls

Toast your sub rolls in a skillet or toaster oven until golden brown. You can brush them lightly with olive oil or butter for an extra rich flavor.

Step 5: Assemble Your Sub

On a cutting board, layer shredded lettuce, chopped chicken, bacon pieces, and sliced tomatoes. Season this mixture with salt and pepper to enhance flavors.

Step 6: Add Cheese and Dressing

Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the top along with ranch dressing. Mix everything together gently to ensure an even distribution of flavors.

Step 7: Serve Immediately

Scoop your flavorful mixture onto the toasted sub rolls. Press down gently to compact it slightly before serving so that everything stays neatly inside.

Enjoy your delicious Chopped Chicken Bacon Ranch Sub! It’s sure to impress at any meal or gathering!

How to Serve Chopped Chicken Bacon Ranch Sub

Serving your Chopped Chicken Bacon Ranch Sub can be a delightful experience. With the right accompaniments, you can elevate this tasty dish to new heights. Here are some creative serving suggestions.

Classic Chips

• Potato Chips: Crispy and salty, these are a perfect crunchy companion.
• Tortilla Chips: Serve with salsa or guacamole for an added flavor boost.

Fresh Salad

• Caesar Salad: A classic choice that adds crispness and tanginess to your meal.
• Coleslaw: Creamy and crunchy, coleslaw complements the richness of the sub.

Vegetable Platter

• Veggie Sticks: Carrot, celery, and bell pepper sticks served with ranch dressing for dipping.
• Pickles: Add a tangy crunch that contrasts nicely with the flavors of the sub.

Fruit Salad

• Mixed Berries: A light and refreshing option that offers a sweet contrast.
• Citrus Mix: Oranges and grapefruits provide a zesty burst of flavor.

How to Perfect Chopped Chicken Bacon Ranch Sub

Perfecting your Chopped Chicken Bacon Ranch Sub involves attention to detail. Here are some tips to enhance your recipe.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables make a significant difference in flavor and texture.
• Grill the Chicken Properly: Ensure the chicken is cooked thoroughly for juiciness; aim for an internal temperature of 165°F.
• Customize Your Dressing: Feel free to mix ranch dressing with herbs or spices for extra zest.
• Toast Your Rolls Well: A crispy roll enhances the overall texture and holds up better against moist ingredients.
• Layer Wisely: Layer ingredients carefully to avoid sogginess; start with lettuce as a base.

Best Side Dishes for Chopped Chicken Bacon Ranch Sub

Pairing side dishes with your Chopped Chicken Bacon Ranch Sub can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some delicious options to consider.

1. French Fries: Crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside; perfect for dipping in ranch.
2. Sweet Potato Fries: A sweeter alternative that balances savory flavors beautifully.
3. Onion Rings: Crunchy and flavorful, these add a fun twist alongside your sub.
4. Macaroni Salad: Creamy and satisfying, it complements the sub’s flavors well.
5. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or steamed, it’s a classic side that adds freshness.
6. Baked Beans: Sweet and savory beans make for a hearty addition to your meal.
7. Stuffed Peppers: Add colorful stuffed peppers filled with rice and veggies for variety.
8. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies bring warmth and depth to your table.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making the Chopped Chicken Bacon Ranch Sub, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Bold seasoning: Not seasoning the chicken properly can result in bland flavors. Always use enough BBQ rub or salt and pepper to enhance the taste.
• Bold cooking time: Overcooking the chicken can make it dry. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
• Bold ingredient prep: Forgetting to chop ingredients uniformly can lead to uneven bites. Chop your chicken, bacon, and vegetables into similar sizes for a better texture.
• Bold roll choice: Using stale or tough rolls can ruin your sub experience. Opt for fresh, toasted sub rolls that are soft yet sturdy enough to hold fillings.
• Bold ranch dressing: Skipping the ranch dressing or using too little can make your sub feel incomplete. Be generous with the dressing for added creaminess and flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Chopped Chicken Bacon Ranch Sub

• Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating Chopped Chicken Bacon Ranch Sub

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and heat wrapped subs for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat for 1-2 minutes.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, covered, until warmed through (about 5-7 minutes).

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making a Chopped Chicken Bacon Ranch Sub.

What is a Chopped Chicken Bacon Ranch Sub?

A Chopped Chicken Bacon Ranch Sub is a delicious sandwich made with grilled chicken, crispy bacon, fresh veggies, and creamy ranch dressing, all served on a toasted sub roll.

Can I customize my Chopped Chicken Bacon Ranch Sub?

Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like bell peppers or cucumbers, or swap out the cheese for a dairy-free option.

How do I make my own ranch dressing?

You can make homemade ranch dressing by mixing mayo, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, dried dill, and buttermilk until smooth.

What sides pair well with this sub?

Chips, a side salad, or fresh fruit are great accompaniments that complement the flavors of the Chopped Chicken Bacon Ranch Sub.

Final Thoughts

The Chopped Chicken Bacon Ranch Sub is not just tasty; it’s also versatile and easy to prepare. You can customize it with different vegetables or sauces based on your preferences. Give this recipe a try for your next meal!