The Chopped Chicken Bacon Ranch Sub is a filling and tasty sandwich that’s packed with juicy chopped chicken, crispy bacon, and creamy ranch dressing. It’s all tucked inside a soft, fresh sub roll that soaks up all the flavors just right. The combination of tender chicken and crunchy bacon gives this sub a great mix of textures and flavors that instantly hit the spot.
I love making this sub for quick lunches or casual dinners because it’s so easy to put together but never feels boring. The ranch brings a cool, herb-y creaminess that ties everything together, and you can add some lettuce and tomatoes for a little fresh crunch. I usually chop the chicken finely so every bite has a bit of everything, and sometimes I toast the bread a bit for extra crunch on the outside.
This sub is one of those comfort foods that everyone seems to enjoy. It’s perfect for packing in a picnic or serving up for friends on game day. Whenever I make it, I’m reminded of how simple ingredients can come together to create something really satisfying and fun to eat. Plus, it’s a great way to use leftover chicken, so it’s both delicious and practical!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breast: This is the main protein and gives the sub its hearty feel. If you want a lighter option, use grilled turkey or roasted tofu for a vegetarian twist. Cooking it with garlic powder and smoked paprika adds nice flavor without extra fuss.
Bacon: Bacon adds crunch and a smoky, salty taste. Turkey bacon or plant-based bacon can be used if you want to cut down on fat or want a vegetarian option. Cooking it in the oven keeps it crispy and less greasy.
Ranch Dressing: Ranch gives a creamy, tangy element to the sub. You can swap it for blue cheese dressing, Caesar dressing, or even a yogurt-based ranch for a healthier alternative. Adding it both inside the sandwich and on top helps keep every bite flavorful.
Sub Roll: A soft, fresh roll is important for holding everything together. If you’re watching carbs, try a whole wheat roll or a lettuce wrap. Toasting the roll adds a lovely crunch and helps prevent it from getting soggy with the fillings.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar works great for flavor and texture. Feel free to swap it with mozzarella, pepper jack, or a dairy-free cheese if needed. Mixing it with the chicken before assembling helps it melt slightly and bind the filling.
How Do I Get the Chicken Perfectly Juicy and Flavorful?
Cooking chicken breast can be tricky because it dries out easily. Here’s a simple way to keep it juicy and tasty:
- Pat the chicken dry, then rub it with olive oil and seasonings like garlic powder and smoked paprika for flavor.
- Use medium-high heat for cooking so the outside gets a nice sear without overcooking.
- Cook about 5-7 minutes per side depending on thickness. Use a meat thermometer if you have one—it should read 165°F (74°C).
- Let the chicken rest for at least 5 minutes after cooking. This helps the juices settle, making the meat moist when chopped.
- Chop finely so the flavors of bacon, cheese, and ranch mix well in every bite.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Oven or toaster oven – perfect for baking crispy bacon without mess.
- Nonstick skillet – great for cooking chicken evenly with little oil.
- Sharp knife – helps you chop chicken and bacon into bite-sized pieces easily.
- Cutting board – keeps your work space clean and safe for chopping.
- Spoon or spatula – handy for mixing chicken, cheese, and ranch together smoothly.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken for grilled steak strips for a richer, beefy taste.
- Use pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar for a spicy kick.
- Add sliced avocado for creaminess and extra nutrients.
- Include pickles or banana peppers for a tangy crunch that brightens the flavors.
Chopped Chicken Bacon Ranch Sub
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 boneless, skinless chicken breast (about 8 oz)
- 4 slices of bacon
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup ranch dressing (plus more as desired)
- 1 sub sandwich roll (about 8-10 inches)
- 1/2 cup shredded romaine lettuce
- 4-5 cherry tomatoes, sliced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or chives, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Time Needed
This sandwich takes about 25-30 minutes to make, including cooking the bacon and chicken, resting the meat, and assembling everything. A quick and delicious meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Bacon:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place bacon slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 12-15 minutes until crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels. Once cooled, crumble or chop into small pieces.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
Season the chicken breast with olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes on each side or until fully cooked. Remove from heat and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes.
3. Assemble the Filling:
Chop the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces. In a bowl, mix the chopped chicken with shredded cheddar cheese and about 1/4 cup ranch dressing until well combined.
4. Prepare the Sub Roll:
Slice the sub roll lengthwise, leaving a hinge if desired. Lightly toast the bread in the oven or on a skillet until golden if you like a bit of crunch.
5. Build the Sandwich:
Spread ranch dressing on the inside of the roll. Layer shredded lettuce and sliced cherry tomatoes inside. Spoon the chicken mixture over the veggies, then sprinkle with crispy bacon pieces.
6. Final Touches:
Drizzle extra ranch dressing over the sandwich and garnish with chopped parsley or chives if you like. Close the sandwich, slice if desired, and serve immediately.
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Sub?
Yes, you can! Just be sure to fully thaw the chicken in the fridge overnight before cooking. This ensures even cooking and prevents excess moisture in the pan.
Can I Make This Sandwich Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the chicken, bacon, and chopped filling a few hours in advance and refrigerate them separately. Assemble the sandwich right before serving to keep the bread from getting soggy.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken mixture and bacon in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It’s best to rebuild the sandwich when ready to eat for the freshest texture.
What Can I Substitute for Ranch Dressing?
If you don’t have ranch, try Caesar or blue cheese dressing, or even a simple mix of mayo and herbs for a homemade alternative that pairs well with chicken and bacon.
