Chopped Chicken Bacon Ranch Sub

When you sink your teeth into this Chopped Chicken Bacon Ranch Sub, you’re greeted with a symphony of textures and bold flavors that’ll make you smile from ear to ear. Tender, perfectly seasoned chicken dances alongside crispy bacon, each bite delivering savory depth and that irresistible smoky crunch. Fresh shredded lettuce and juicy tomato slices add a bright, garden-fresh note, while thin ribbons of red onion lend a subtle zing that cuts through the richness. And let’s not forget the melted cheddar cheese—a gooey, velvety layer that binds it all together as the cool, tangy ranch dressing envelopes every morsel with creamy perfection.

This sub is the definition of comfort food with a gourmet twist, and it’s surprisingly simple to master. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family on a weeknight or assembling sandwiches for a weekend get-together, this recipe delivers on both flavor and ease. Designed with home cooks in mind—beginner-friendly and straightforward—it requires no fancy equipment or complicated steps. In under an hour, including prep and rest time, you’ll have four hearty subs that clock in at about 650 calories each, making this a satisfying lunch or dinner option. Ready to elevate your sandwich game? Let’s dive in and get cooking!

KEY INGREDIENTS IN CHOPPED CHICKEN BACON RANCH SUB

These ingredients work together to transform simple pantry staples into a flavor-packed, crunchy sub experience. Each element plays a specific role in building layers of taste, texture, and visual appeal that make this sandwich a standout.

• Chicken breasts: Lean and tender, chicken breasts serve as the protein powerhouse in this sub. When seasoned and seared properly, they lock in juices and deliver a succulent bite.

• Bacon strips: Crispy and smoky, bacon strips introduce a salty crunch that contrasts beautifully with the softness of the chicken and bread.

• Olive oil: A drizzle of olive oil ensures the chicken cooks evenly without sticking, while adding a subtle fruity note.

• Salt and pepper: The simplest seasonings, salt and pepper sharpen all other flavors, bringing balance and depth.

• Garlic powder: Earthy and aromatic, garlic powder infuses the chicken with a savory undertone.

• Onion powder: Slightly sweet and pungent, onion powder layers additional complexity into the chicken’s coating.

• Ranch dressing mix: This blend of herbs and spices injects the classic ranch flavor that ties the entire sandwich together.

• Shredded lettuce: Crisp and refreshing, lettuce adds a cool contrast against the warm fillings, preventing the sandwich from feeling too heavy.

• Tomato: Juicy tomato slices supply acidity and moisture, brightening each bite.

• Red onion: Thinly sliced red onion contributes a sharp, tangy kick and a pop of color.

• Sub rolls: Soft yet sturdy, sub rolls cradle all the ingredients without falling apart, providing the perfect handheld vessel.

• Shredded cheddar cheese: Sharp and melty, cheddar cheese blankets the fillings in gooey goodness that enhances richness.

• Ranch dressing: Drizzled on top, ranch dressing offers creamy tang and ties every flavor together with its signature herb-infused tang.

HOW TO MAKE CHOPPED CHICKEN BACON RANCH SUB

Bring these vibrant ingredients together in nine easy steps to craft your ultimate chopped chicken bacon ranch sub. The process is straightforward, and once you master it, you’ll be hooked on that satisfyingly crunchy texture and bold taste.

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure a hot environment for crispy bacon and melty cheese. Position a rack in the center for even heat distribution.

2. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and ranch dressing mix. Rub the spices into every crevice for a well-coated, flavorful result.

3. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat until it shimmers. Add the seasoned chicken breasts gently and cook for about 6–7 minutes per side until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F and have a golden-brown crust.

4. Remove chicken from the skillet and let it rest on a cutting board for 5 minutes. Resting locks in juices. Afterward, chop into bite-sized pieces for easy layering.

5. Meanwhile, place bacon strips on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes or until crispy. Transfer to paper towels to drain excess grease, then chop into pieces.

6. Split the sub rolls lengthwise and arrange them on a clean baking sheet. Layer each roll with chopped chicken, bacon, shredded lettuce, sliced tomato, and red onion for a balance of flavors and textures.

7. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the assembled fillings, ensuring every bite will have a melty cheese pull.

8. Put the assembled subs in the oven for about 5 minutes or until the cheese is fully melted and the rolls are slightly toasted at the edges.

9. Remove from the oven and drizzle ranch dressing generously over the top before serving to finish with that signature creamy tang.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR CHOPPED CHICKEN BACON RANCH SUB

Presenting your Chopped Chicken Bacon Ranch Subs is almost as fun as making them. Whether you’re hosting a laid-back lunch or a full-blown game-day spread, these serving ideas will elevate the experience and keep guests coming back for more. Think about how the cooler crunch of a salad or the bold kick of spices can complement each bite. And don’t shy away from playful garnishes like fresh herbs or extra cheese pulls to make mouths water before the first taste. With a bit of creativity and strategic pairing, you’ll turn a simple sandwich into a memorable meal.

• Pair with crispy sweet potato fries for a healthier twist on classic fries. Toss the wedges in smoked paprika and garlic salt before baking to echo the sub’s savory profile.
• Serve alongside a tangy coleslaw tossed in light vinaigrette. The bright acidity and crunch contrast your rich, cheesy sandwich perfectly.
• Build a DIY topping bar with extras like sliced avocado, jalapeños, and pickled red onions. Let guests customize their subs for a fun, interactive meal.
• Complement your subs with refreshing iced tea or lemonade. The cooling beverages cut through the sandwich’s richness and keep the flavors lively.

HOW TO STORE CHOPPED CHICKEN BACON RANCH SUB

Ensuring your Chopped Chicken Bacon Ranch Subs remain tasty and fresh is all about smart storage techniques. While these subs are at their best when served immediately, you can absolutely prep components in advance and assemble later for a convenient lunch or on-the-go meal. Proper separation of ingredients keeps textures crisp and flavors bold without the dreaded sogginess. Whether you’re packing leftovers for a busy workweek or prepping a batch for a picnic, these tips will help you maintain that delicious, crunchy sub experience.

• Refrigerate components separately: Store chopped chicken and bacon in airtight containers in the fridge. Keep lettuce, tomato, and onion in another container with a paper towel layer to absorb moisture.
• Store rolls in bread bags: Keep your sub rolls in resealable bags at room temperature to maintain softness without getting stale—avoid direct refrigeration.
• Keep cheese and dressing chilled: Place shredded cheddar and ranch dressing in small, sealed containers in the fridge. Add them right before serving to preserve freshness and flavor.
• Reheat with care: If you need to warm ingredients, gently heat the chicken and bacon in a skillet over low heat or microwave in short bursts, then assemble on room-temperature bread to prevent steaming and sogginess.

CONCLUSION

This Chopped Chicken Bacon Ranch Sub has everything you crave: juicy, seasoned chicken mingled with smoky bacon, crisp lettuce and tomato, melty cheddar cheese, and a drizzle of cool ranch. With a total prep time of just 15 minutes, 35 minutes of cooking, and a 5-minute rest, you’ll have a fantastic lunch or dinner ready in under an hour. Beginner-friendly and bursting with flavor, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, casual gatherings, or cozy movie nights at home. The crunchy combination and bold seasoning make every bite memorable, and the versatile preparation means you can customize it to your heart’s desire—try avocado slices, turkey bacon, or a whole wheat baguette for fresh variations.

Feel free to print this article and save it for later use, or tuck it into your recipe binder for a reliable go-to when sandwich cravings strike. You’ll find a handy FAQ section below to answer common questions and troubleshoot any cooking challenges you might encounter. And should you decide to try the recipe, I’d love to hear how it turned out! Leave a comment or reach out with any questions, suggestions, or feedback—your home-cooked creations and cooking adventures inspire me every day. Enjoy your crunchy sub experience!

Print Recipe

Chopped Chicken Bacon Ranch Sub

Author: Laura Mitchell Courses: Lunch

Difficulty: Beginner Prep Time 15 mins Cook Time 35 mins Rest Time 5 mins Total Time 55 mins

Calories: 650

Description

Savory chicken and crispy bacon mingle with fresh lettuce, tomato, and melted cheddar, all drizzled in cool ranch for a satisfyingly bold and crunchy sub experience.

Ingredients

Scale

1/2x 1x 2x 3x

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

• 6 strips of bacon

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon onion powder

• 1 tablespoon ranch dressing mix

• 1 cup shredded lettuce

• 1 large tomato, sliced

• 1 small red onion, thinly sliced

• 4 sub rolls

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

• ½ cup ranch dressing

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and ranch dressing mix.
3. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the seasoned chicken breasts and cook for about 6-7 minutes per side until fully cooked.
4. Remove chicken from the skillet and let it rest for 5 minutes, then chop into bite-sized pieces.
5. Meanwhile, place bacon strips on a baking sheet and bake in the oven for about 15 minutes or until crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels, then chop into pieces.
6. Split the sub rolls and place them on a baking sheet. Layer each sub with chopped chicken, bacon, shredded lettuce, sliced tomato, and red onion.
7. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top of each sub.
8. Put the assembled subs in the oven for about 5 minutes or until the cheese is melted.
9. Remove from the oven and drizzle ranch dressing over the top before serving.

Note

• For added flavor, marinate the chicken in the seasoning mix for a few hours before cooking.
• Substitute turkey bacon for a lighter option.
• Add avocado slices for a creamy texture.
• Use a variety of breads like whole wheat or French baguette for different textures.
• Great for picnics as they can be served warm or cold.

Keywords: chicken bacon ranch, chopped chicken sub, ranch sub recipe, bacon ranch sandwich, easy sub recipe, crunchy sub