Name: Smoked Chicken Sandwich
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 4 chicken breasts (boneless and skinless); 1/2 cup Smoked Tomato Dressing (Kensington Market Street Food Smoked Tomato Dressing); 1 garlic clove; 2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon pepper; 4 sandwich bread (Ciabatta bread); 1/2 cup Caesar Dressing (Kensington Market Street Food Sriracha Caesar Dressing); 1/3 cup Kimchi (Kensington Market Street Food Kimchi Slaw); 1 red onion (sliced); 1 cup arugula; 1/4 cup sun dried tomatoes; 8 slices of provolone (or any neutral tasting cheese); Fries; Fresh tomatoes; Fresh Arugula; Smoked Tomato Dressing (for dipping); Sriracha Caesar Dressing (for dipping)

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I’ve always had a love for sandwiches that pack a punch, and the Smoked Chicken Sandwich is a standout in my kitchen. Imagine sinking your teeth into a perfectly grilled chicken breast, perfectly marinated and bursting with flavor, all nestled between two slices of crusty ciabatta bread. When I first tried this combination, the crunch of the kimchi slaw against the tenderness of the chicken was a revelation. It was one of those moments in the kitchen where everything just clicked, and I couldn’t wait to share it with friends and family. The best part? It’s as easy to make as it is delicious, making it perfect for casual gatherings or a satisfying weeknight meal.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
30 mins

Prep Time:
10 mins

Cook Time:
20 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
450 kcal

Protein:
30 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
15 g

Tools Used:
Chef’s Knife, Frying Pan

What Sets This Smoked Chicken Sandwich Apart

Flavor Explosion

What truly sets the Smoked Chicken Sandwich apart is the marination process. I use a blend of smoked tomato dressing and fresh thyme that gives the chicken a smoky depth and complexity that is simply irresistible. It’s not just chicken; it’s an adventure for your taste buds.

Fresh Ingredients

Every time I make this sandwich, I’m reminded of the importance of fresh ingredients. The crispiness of the arugula, the tang of the kimchi, and the richness of the cheese create a balance that feels both hearty and refreshing. It’s one of those meals that makes you feel good inside!

Perfect for Any Occasion

The versatility of the Smoked Chicken Sandwich means that it can be dressed up for a dinner party or kept casual for a picnic. I love serving it with a side of fries and extra dipping sauces, which always elevates any meal.

Easy to Customize

One of my favorite things about this sandwich is that it’s easily customizable. You can add or swap out ingredients based on your preferences. Whether you’re in the mood for extra spice or a change in the dressing, it’s forgiving and invites creativity.

Family-Friendly

This recipe is a hit with my family, and I bet it will be with yours too! It’s a great way to introduce new flavors to kids, especially with the fun of assembling their sandwiches.

Quick and Simple

In just 30 minutes, you can transform simple ingredients into something extraordinary. This makes the Smoked Chicken Sandwich not only delicious but also practical for busy weeknights.

Ingredients Overview for Smoked Chicken Sandwich

The ingredients in the Smoked Chicken Sandwich are key to creating a dish that’s both flavorful and satisfying. Each component has a role, from the juicy and tender chicken to the zesty kimchi that adds a delightful crunch. Together, they create a sandwich that’s not just a meal, but an experience.

4 boneless and skinless chicken breasts: The star of the dish, these chicken breasts are marinated to infuse flavor and moisture, ensuring each bite is juicy.
1/2 cup smoked tomato dressing: This dressing adds a smoky richness that pairs perfectly with the chicken, elevating the overall taste.
1 garlic clove: A must-have for any marinade, it imparts a subtle aroma and enhances the flavor profile.
2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves: Fresh herbs brighten up the dish and add a lovely earthiness that complements the chicken.
1/4 teaspoon salt: Essential for bringing out the flavors in the chicken and other ingredients.
1/2 teaspoon pepper: A touch of heat to balance out the flavors.
4 ciabatta bread slices: The perfect vessel for our sandwich, ciabatta adds a delightful chewiness and texture.
1/2 cup Caesar dressing: Providing a creamy component that works beautifully with the crunch of the kimchi.
1/3 cup kimchi: This fermented dish adds a spicy, tangy crunch that takes the sandwich to the next level.
1 red onion, sliced: Adds a sweet and crunchy contrast to the sandwich.
1 cup arugula: Fresh and peppery, it adds brightness to the sandwich.
1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes: Their concentrated flavor enriches each bite.
8 slices of provolone cheese: Melts beautifully and adds a creamy richness.
Fries: The ideal side, perfect for dipping into extra sauce.
Fresh tomatoes: Optional, for added freshness and juiciness.
Fresh arugula: An extra sprinkle for garnish.
Smoked tomato dressing for dipping: A tasty addition for those who want more flavor.
Sriracha Caesar dressing for dipping: For those who enjoy a kick!

The Process for Making Smoked Chicken Sandwich

Making the Smoked Chicken Sandwich is a rewarding experience that I genuinely enjoy. Each step brings you closer to the delightful moment of biting into a beautifully assembled sandwich. Let’s dive into the process!

Start by marinating the chicken. In a deep plate, combine the smoked tomato dressing, garlic, fresh thyme, salt, and pepper. Place the chicken breasts in the marinade, ensuring they’re coated well. Set this aside for about 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to penetrate the meat.
While the chicken marinates, prepare your sandwich ingredients. Slice the red onion and gather the arugula, sun-dried tomatoes, Caesar dressing, and kimchi. Having everything ready makes the assembly quick and easy.
Next, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. It’s essential to have a hot grill so that the chicken sears beautifully and retains its juiciness. Place the marinated chicken breasts on the hot grill once it’s ready.
Cook the chicken for about 10 minutes on each side. You’ll know it’s done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit. The outside should have a nice char, while the inside remains juicy.
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and cover it with foil. Allow it to rest for about 5 minutes. This step is crucial, as it lets the juices redistribute, ensuring tender slices.
After resting, slice the chicken into 1/4 inch thick pieces. This size is perfect for layering in your sandwich, providing a great bite with every mouthful.
It’s time to assemble the sandwich! Start by spreading 2 tablespoons of Sriracha Caesar dressing on the bottom half of each slice of ciabatta bread. This dressing acts as a flavorful base.
Next, layer on a slice of provolone cheese, followed by a handful of arugula, some slices of red onion, a generous portion of kimchi, and the sliced chicken. Top it all off with another slice of cheese to help everything stick together.
Close the sandwich with the top ciabatta slice and place it in a panini press. Grill for about 4 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the bread is crispy. A good press creates delightful grill marks and melds the flavors beautifully.
Once done, remove the sandwich from the press. Serve it hot with a side of fries and additional sauces for dipping. The Smoked Chicken Sandwich is ready to be enjoyed!

Things Worth Knowing

Marinating is key: Allowing the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes significantly enhances its flavor.
Monitor the grill temp: A properly heated grill helps achieve that perfect sear, ensuring your chicken is juicy.
Resting time matters: Don’t skip the resting period after grilling; it keeps the chicken moist.
Use fresh herbs: Fresh thyme brings vibrant flavor; dried herbs won’t have the same impact.

Helpful Notes about Smoked Chicken Sandwich

Here are some helpful notes that will enhance your experience with the Smoked Chicken Sandwich. These tips cover everything from storage to serving suggestions.

Storage: Store leftover sandwiches in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.
Freezing: You can freeze the marinated chicken before grilling. Just ensure it’s well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn.
Pairing: This sandwich pairs beautifully with a side salad or crispy fries.
For extra crunch: Add pickles or crunchy vegetables to give the sandwich a delightful texture contrast.
Variations: Feel free to experiment with different dressings or cheeses to suit your taste.

What Goes Well With This Smoked Chicken Sandwich

Sweet potato fries: Their natural sweetness balances the savory notes of the sandwich.
Coleslaw: A side of coleslaw adds a refreshing crunch that complements the chicken.
Fresh fruit salad: Light and refreshing, perfect for a summer meal.
Side salad: A simple garden salad can enhance the meal without overpowering the flavors.
Picnic-ready: This sandwich is perfect for outdoor gatherings and can be made in advance.
Casual dinner: It’s great for a laid-back family dinner or a quick lunch.

FAQ

Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken in advance and store it in the refrigerator. This allows for even more flavor to develop. Just grill it fresh when you’re ready to serve the Smoked Chicken Sandwich. You can also prepare the ingredients and keep them separately until you’re ready to assemble the sandwiches.

If you’re not a fan of kimchi, you can replace it with sliced pickles or a tangy slaw. Both will add crunch and a touch of acidity, balancing the richness of the sandwich. Feel free to get creative with other toppings that you enjoy!

To amp up the heat in your Smoked Chicken Sandwich, try adding jalapeños or using a spicy mayonnaise in place of the Sriracha Caesar dressing. You can also incorporate a sprinkle of chili flakes or hot sauce to your liking. Adjust the heat to suit your preferences!

Of course! While ciabatta is a great choice for the Smoked Chicken Sandwich, you can experiment with other breads like sourdough, whole grain, or even a soft brioche bun. Each bread will offer a different texture and flavor, making your sandwich unique!

Conclusion

The Smoked Chicken Sandwich is not just a meal; it’s an experience packed with flavor and texture. With its perfectly grilled chicken, vibrant veggies, and sauces, it’s a delightful choice for any occasion. I encourage you to try making this sandwich at home! It’s simple, quick, and sure to impress anyone lucky enough to take a bite.