Blackened Chicken Bacon Ranch Sandwiches Recipe

If you’re looking for a sandwich that packs a punch of flavor and satisfies your hunger, you’ve come to the right place! These Blackened Chicken Bacon Ranch Sandwiches are a delightful twist on the classic chicken sandwich. They come together quickly and are perfect for busy weeknights or laid-back family gatherings. The combination of spicy blackened chicken, crispy bacon, and creamy ranch dressing creates an irresistible meal that everyone will love.

What makes this recipe special is how easy it is to prepare while still delivering big on taste. You can whip these up in just 25 minutes, making them an ideal choice for those nights when you want something satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. Trust me; once you try this Blackened Chicken Bacon Ranch Sandwiches Recipe, you’ll want to keep it on repeat!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavor Explosion: The spicy blackened chicken paired with creamy ranch is a match made in heaven.
• Quick and Easy: With just 25 minutes from start to finish, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners.
• Family Friendly: Everyone loves a good sandwich, especially one loaded with flavor and texture.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare the ranch ahead of time for an even quicker assembly during busy evenings.
• Customizable: You can easily tweak the ingredients to suit your family’s tastes!

Ingredients You’ll Need

These Blackened Chicken Bacon Ranch Sandwiches come together with simple and wholesome ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry. Let’s gather everything we need to create this delicious meal!

For the Chicken

• 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 6 slices bacon
• 1 tablespoon seasoned salt
• ½ tablespoon garlic powder
• ½ tablespoon onion powder
• ½ tablespoon paprika
• 2 teaspoons black pepper
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

For Assembly

• 1 cup romaine lettuce, shredded
• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
• 4 brioche buns

For the Homemade Ranch Dressing

• ½ cup mayonnaise
• ½ cup sour cream
• ½ cup buttermilk
• 2 teaspoons dried dill (or fresh)
• 1 ½ teaspoons garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dried chives (or fresh)
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• ½ teaspoon salt (to taste)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily adapt it to fit your mood or what you have on hand.

• Swap the Protein: Use grilled shrimp or tofu instead of chicken for a different take.
• Go Veggie: Replace the bacon with crispy tempeh or roasted vegetables for a plant-based option.
• Change the Cheese: Try pepper jack cheese for an extra kick or leave it out entirely for a lighter version.
• Add Extra Veggies: Layer on some sliced tomatoes or avocado for added freshness and texture.

How to Make Blackened Chicken Bacon Ranch Sandwiches Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Ranch Dressing

Start by making your homemade ranch dressing. In a medium bowl, mix together mayonnaise, sour cream, buttermilk, and all the seasonings until well combined. This dressing is not only creamy but also adds an incredible flavor boost to your sandwiches!

Step 2: Season the Chicken

Take your chicken breasts and place them on a cutting board covered with parchment paper. Flatten them slightly with a kitchen mallet or rolling pin. This helps them cook evenly! Next, sprinkle all those flavorful seasonings over the chicken and toss them gently until each piece is coated beautifully.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Heat up your cast iron skillet over medium heat and drizzle in olive oil. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken in a single layer. Cover it with a lid or foil and sear for about 7 minutes. This step ensures that lovely blackened crust forms on one side before flipping!

Step 4: Cook the Bacon

In another non-stick skillet, cook your bacon until crispy—about 5 minutes on one side followed by another 2 minutes after flipping. Let it drain on a cooling rack; nobody likes soggy bacon!

Step 5: Finish Cooking the Chicken

Uncover your skillet and flip over the chicken pieces. Cover again and let them cook for another 8-10 minutes until cooked through with that delicious blackened look.

Step 6: Toast Your Buns

While your chicken rests (this step is crucial!), use that same skillet to toast your brioche buns. Spread butter on each side and lay them flat in the skillet over medium heat for about 3-5 minutes until golden brown.

Step 7: Assemble Your Sandwiches

Now comes the fun part—building your sandwiches! Start by spreading some homemade ranch on each bun, then layer on shredded romaine lettuce, sliced blackened chicken, crispy bacon, and more ranch if desired.

And there you have it—your very own Blackened Chicken Bacon Ranch Sandwich ready to enjoy! Each bite will be full of flavors that bring smiles around your table. Enjoy every mouthful!

Pro Tips for Making Blackened Chicken Bacon Ranch Sandwiches Recipe

Making these sandwiches can be a breeze with just a few insider tips! Here are some suggestions to elevate your cooking experience and ensure delicious sandwiches every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh chicken, crispy bacon, and vibrant lettuce not only enhance the flavor but also contribute to the overall texture and appearance of your sandwich.
• Don’t Skip the Resting Time: Allowing the chicken to rest after cooking helps retain its juices, ensuring each bite is tender and flavorful.
• Control the Heat: If you find that your chicken is browning too quickly, lower the heat. This allows for even cooking without burning the seasoning.
• Customize Your Spice Level: Adjust the cayenne pepper to suit your taste. If you’re serving guests, consider leaving it out entirely for a milder flavor while providing hot sauce on the side for those who enjoy an extra kick.
• Make Ahead: Prepare the ranch dressing and cook the chicken in advance. This makes assembling the sandwiches quick and easy during busy weeknights or gatherings!

How to Serve Blackened Chicken Bacon Ranch Sandwiches Recipe

Serving these sandwiches is all about presentation and pairing them with complementary flavors. Here are some ideas to make your meal feel special!

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle some fresh parsley or cilantro on top of your sandwich for a pop of color and freshness.
• Pickles: Adding dill pickles or pickled jalapeños can give an extra zing that balances the richness of the ranch dressing.

Side Dishes

• Sweet Potato Fries: These crispy fries offer a sweet contrast to the savory flavors of the sandwich, making them an excellent side choice.
• Coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw adds crunch and tanginess that complements the rich flavors of the blackened chicken and bacon.
• Mixed Green Salad: A simple salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a light vinaigrette provides a fresh element that brightens up your plate.
• Vegetable Chips: Crispy vegetable chips (like kale or beet) are a healthy alternative to traditional potato chips that still satisfy those crunchy cravings.

With these serving suggestions in mind, you’re ready to create a delightful meal that will impress family and friends alike! Enjoy every flavorful bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Blackened Chicken Bacon Ranch Sandwiches are perfect for meal prep! You can easily make the components ahead of time, ensuring you have a delicious meal ready to go whenever the hunger strikes.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover chicken, bacon, and ranch dressing in separate airtight containers.
• Keep the components refrigerated for up to 3 days.
• Assemble your sandwich just before serving to maintain freshness.

Freezing

• You can freeze the blackened chicken for up to 2 months.
• Wrap each piece of chicken in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• Bacon is best used fresh but can be frozen if necessary; just ensure it’s cooked and sealed tightly.

Reheating

• To reheat the chicken, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and warm it in a skillet over low heat until heated through.
• Cooked bacon can be reheated in a microwave or skillet until crispy again.
• If using the ranch dressing from cold storage, simply give it a good stir before serving.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this recipe!

Can I make Blackened Chicken Bacon Ranch Sandwiches ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and bacon in advance. Store them separately, and assemble your sandwiches just before enjoying for optimal freshness.

What can I use instead of buttermilk in the ranch dressing?

If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, you can substitute it with a mixture of regular milk and lemon juice or vinegar. Just add 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to ½ cup of milk and let it sit for 5 minutes before using.

How spicy are Blackened Chicken Bacon Ranch Sandwiches?

The spice level really depends on how much cayenne pepper you choose to add. The spices create a flavorful crust that can be adjusted according to your preference!

Final Thoughts

I hope this Blackened Chicken Bacon Ranch Sandwiches Recipe brings joy to your kitchen! It’s packed with flavor and is sure to impress your family or friends. Enjoy making it as much as I enjoyed sharing it with you. Happy cooking!