Sink your teeth into a Chopped Chicken Bacon Ranch Sub bursting with juicy grilled chicken, smoky‑crispy bacon, and tangy ranch dressing—all tucked inside a soft, toasted roll. Ready in just 30 minutes, this crowd‑pleasing sandwich delivers layers of savory comfort and fresh crunch, making it perfect for busy weeknights, game‑day spreads, or easy lunches. One bite and you’ll know why this hearty American classic is everyone’s favorite grab‑and‑go meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Fast & fuss‑free – 30 minutes from prep to plate.
- Family‑friendly – Bacon + ranch = instant hit.
- Meal‑prep savvy – Grill chicken in advance for lightning‑quick assembly.
- Customizable – Swap in your favorite veggies or dressings.
- Protein‑packed – 36 g protein per serving keeps you satisfied.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts (3–4) – Aim for medium‑sized breasts for even cooking.
- Crispy bacon (6–8 slices) – Thick‑cut for extra crunch, turkey bacon for a leaner option.
- Ranch dressing (½ cup) – Choose a creamy, high‑quality brand or homemade ranch.
- Sub rolls (4) – Fresh bakery rolls or hoagie buns hold fillings without getting soggy.
- Fresh lettuce & sliced tomatoes – Romaine or iceberg for crunch, ripe tomatoes for juiciness.
- Salt & pepper – Simple seasoning enhances natural flavors.
How to Make It
- Grill the chicken: Preheat grill or stovetop grill pan to medium heat. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Grill 6–7 minutes per side until an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) is reached. Rest 5 minutes, then chop into bite‑size pieces.
- Crisp the bacon: In a separate skillet, cook bacon 5–6 minutes per side until crispy. Transfer to paper towels, cool, and chop.
- Toss with ranch: In a large bowl, combine chopped chicken, bacon pieces, and ranch dressing. Stir until every morsel is coated.
- Prep the rolls: Split each sub roll lengthwise (don’t cut all the way through). Lightly toast on the grill for 1–2 minutes if desired.
- Assemble: Layer lettuce and tomato inside each roll. Pile high with the chicken‑bacon‑ranch mixture.
- Serve: Enjoy immediately while warm and the roll is still toasty.
Recipe Tips & Tricks
- Pound thick chicken breasts to an even thickness for faster, uniform grilling.
- Let meats rest before chopping to keep juices locked in.
- Warm rolls just before filling to prevent sogginess and boost texture.
- Add a splash more ranch after tossing if you prefer an extra‑creamy sub.
Recipe Variations & Substitutions
- Spicy twist: Mix hot sauce into the ranch or use pepper jack cheese slices.
- Lighter version: Swap bacon for turkey bacon and use light ranch dressing.
- Veggie‑loaded: Stir in diced cucumbers, bell peppers, or red onion for crunch.
- Different protein: Substitute grilled turkey or rotisserie chicken for a shortcut.
- Gluten‑free: Use your favorite gluten‑free sub rolls.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with sweet potato fries, crispy potato chips, or a simple green salad.
- Add a side of pickle spears or coleslaw for classic deli vibes.
- Serve mini versions on slider buns for party platters or tailgates.
Storage, Freezing, & Reheating Instructions
- Store filling: Refrigerate chicken‑bacon‑ranch mixture in an airtight container up to 3 days.
- Make ahead: Grill chicken and cook bacon up to 24 hours ahead; chop and toss with ranch right before serving.
- Reheat: Warm filling gently in a skillet over medium‑low heat or microwave in 30‑second bursts until just heated through.
- Freezing not recommended – Mayo‑based dressings separate upon thawing.
Recipe FAQs
Can I substitute chicken thighs?
Yes! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs stay extra juicy. Grill 5–6 minutes per side until 175°F (80°C) internal temperature.
What’s the best bacon for this sub?
Thick‑cut smoked bacon delivers hearty texture and smoky flavor, but any favorite bacon works.
How can I make it healthier?
Use grilled chicken breast, turkey bacon, light ranch, and whole‑grain rolls. Add extra veggies for fiber.
Is ranch dressing safe to heat?
Yes. The short reheating time warms the filling without curdling. Avoid boiling temperatures to keep the dressing creamy.
Closing Thoughts + Call to Action
This Chopped Chicken Bacon Ranch Sub brings together classic flavors in one satisfying, handheld meal—ideal for quick dinners, backyard BBQs, or weekday lunches. With endless ways to customize, it’s sure to become a staple in your sandwich rotation.
If you give this recipe a try, leave a rating and comment below! Snap a photo, share it on Pinterest or Instagram, and tag us so we can see your delicious creation. Happy sandwich‑making!