Introduction
I still remember the first time I tasted Applebee’s Grilled Chicken Sandwich – the perfect balance of tender grilled chicken, fresh toppings, and a toasted bun. It quickly became my go-to meal whenever I visited. The flavors were so comforting, yet vibrant, and I couldn’t help but wonder if I could recreate that sandwich at home. After several attempts and a bit of trial and error, I finally perfected a version that rivaled the restaurant’s! Today, I’m excited to share my Applebee’s Grilled Chicken Sandwich Recipe (Copycat), so you can enjoy this mouthwatering sandwich anytime, right from your kitchen. Whether you’re craving a hearty lunch or a satisfying dinner, this recipe brings that delicious Applebee’s experience straight to your table.
Table of Contents
Applebee’s Grilled Chicken Sandwich Recipe (Copycat)
This Applebee’s Grilled Chicken Sandwich Copycat Recipe brings you the perfect grilled chicken sandwich with juicy chicken, fresh veggies, and a toasted bun, just like the one you love at the restaurant.
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 2 sandwiches
Ingredients
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Fresh sandwich buns
- Crisp lettuce
- Ripe tomato slices
- Melted provolone or cheddar cheese
- Garlic powder
- Paprika
- Salt and pepper
- Honey mustard or ranch sauce
Instructions
- Season chicken breasts with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
- Grill chicken for 6-8 minutes on each side until fully cooked and internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- While chicken is grilling, toast sandwich buns lightly.
- Once chicken is ready, place a slice of cheese on top and let it melt.
- Assemble the sandwich by layering lettuce, tomato, and grilled chicken onto the bun. Drizzle sauce of choice on top.
- Close sandwich with the top bun and serve.
Notes
You can prepare the chicken ahead of time by marinating it for a few hours or overnight to enhance flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Sandwich
- Method: Grilled
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 sandwich
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 900mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: applebee’s, grilled chicken sandwich, copycat, sandwich, chicken, grilled
Why Applebee’s Grilled Chicken Sandwich is a Must-Try
Applebee’s Grilled Chicken Sandwich has been a crowd favorite for years. Its perfect combination of juicy grilled chicken, crispy lettuce, and the right amount of sauce makes each bite a flavorful experience. But what really sets it apart is the grilled chicken—cooked to perfection with a subtle smoky flavor and just the right seasoning. It’s the kind of meal that satisfies your hunger without leaving you feeling overwhelmed.
The beauty of this sandwich lies in its simplicity. It’s not overly complicated, yet it manages to stand out among other options. If you’ve tried other grilled chicken sandwiches and are looking for a recipe that rivals the best, this copycat version will not disappoint.
For another tasty grilled option, check out our Grilled Chicken Platter Recipe. If you’re in the mood for a different twist on grilled chicken, you might enjoy the Juicy Grilled Chicken Strips Recipe as well!
Ingredients for Applebee’s Grilled Chicken Sandwich (Copycat)
To recreate the magic of Applebee’s Grilled Chicken Sandwich at home, you’ll need a few key ingredients. Fortunately, this recipe doesn’t require anything too complex, but the combination of fresh, high-quality ingredients makes all the difference. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Chicken breasts – Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the best choice for a juicy, tender sandwich.
- Buns – Fresh, soft sandwich buns that can hold the fillings without falling apart.
- Lettuce – Crisp lettuce adds a fresh crunch.
- Tomato – A slice or two of ripe tomato adds sweetness and moisture.
- Cheese – Melted provolone or cheddar cheese works perfectly for that creamy texture.
- Grilled chicken seasoning – A blend of your favorite spices (garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper) will give the chicken that authentic grilled flavor.
- Sauce – You can choose between honey mustard, ranch, or any other favorite sauce for extra flavor.
If you’re looking to explore more grilling options, you might want to try the Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Panda Express or check out our Grilled Stuffed Chicken Burrito Taco Bell recipe for a new take on grilled chicken.
Step-by-Step Instructions for the Perfect Grilled Chicken Sandwich
Now that you have all the ingredients ready, let’s walk through the steps to create your very own Applebee’s Grilled Chicken Sandwich. The process is simple, but the key to getting the perfect grilled chicken is all in the details.
Step 1: Preparing the Chicken for Grilling
Start by seasoning your chicken breasts with a mix of garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. You can also marinate the chicken for a few hours to really let the flavors soak in. If you’re in a rush, a simple rub of seasoning will do the job. Once seasoned, preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Place the chicken on the grill and cook for about 6-8 minutes on each side until the chicken is fully cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
Step 2: Assembling the Sandwich
While your chicken is grilling, toast your sandwich buns lightly on the grill or in a toaster. When the chicken is ready, place a slice of cheese on top and allow it to melt. Then, layer the lettuce, tomato, and grilled chicken onto the bun. For an extra touch, drizzle your choice of sauce (honey mustard or ranch) on top before closing up the sandwich with the top bun.
This simple yet delicious assembly will leave you with a sandwich that tastes just like the one you’d enjoy at Applebee’s.
For a tasty variation, check out our Grilled Cajun Wings or the Smoked Mac and Cheese Recipe for side dish inspiration that pairs wonderfully with your sandwich.
Serving Suggestions and Tips for the Perfect Grilled Chicken Sandwich
Once you’ve assembled your Applebee’s Grilled Chicken Sandwich, it’s time to enjoy it with some delicious sides and tips to ensure everything is perfect.
Step 1: How to Serve Your Sandwich
The beauty of this sandwich lies in its versatility. For a well-rounded meal, serve it with crispy fries or a light side salad to balance the richness of the grilled chicken. You could also pair it with grilled vegetables or a creamy mac and cheese for a comforting, indulgent experience.
For drinks, a lemonade or a cold beer complements the sandwich’s savory flavors. If you’re making this meal for a gathering, it’s an ideal option for casual summer cookouts or cozy dinner parties.
Step 2: Tips for Grilling the Chicken Perfectly
Grilling chicken can sometimes be tricky, but with these tips, you’ll get juicy, tender chicken every time. First, make sure the grill is preheated properly – medium-high heat is key. To avoid dry chicken, don’t overcook it; use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Also, let the chicken rest for a few minutes after grilling to keep it juicy.
If you’re looking for more ways to make your grilled meals shine, try our Grilled Beef Galbi or Smoked Turkey Breast recipes for another round of grilling perfection.
FAQ Section
1. Does this Applebee’s Grilled Chicken Sandwich Recipe Taste Like the Real Thing?
Yes! This copycat recipe closely replicates the flavors of the Applebee’s Grilled Chicken Sandwich. With the right seasoning and grilling technique, you can achieve that same deliciously smoky grilled chicken, crispy toppings, and perfect bun texture that make the original sandwich so beloved.
2. Can I Use a Different Type of Chicken?
While boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for this sandwich, you can certainly use chicken thighs if you prefer a juicier cut of meat. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time, as thighs might take a little longer to cook through.
3. Can I Make this Sandwich Spicy?
Absolutely! If you like your sandwich with a kick, you can spice it up by adding a bit of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the seasoning mix. Alternatively, drizzle some hot sauce or add jalapeños to the sandwich for extra heat.
4. Can I Prepare the Chicken Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prep the chicken ahead of time. Marinate the chicken overnight to allow the flavors to meld, then simply grill it the next day. You can also grill the chicken in advance and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to assemble the sandwiches.
Conclusion
There’s something special about recreating a restaurant favorite at home, and this Applebee’s Grilled Chicken Sandwich Copycat Recipe lets you do just that. With its perfect balance of juicy chicken, crisp veggies, and soft buns, it’s a meal that will leave everyone asking for more. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or for friends, this sandwich is sure to impress. Enjoy the delicious taste of Applebee’s from the comfort of your own kitchen!
