Zesty Lemon Pepper Bacon Chicken Sandwich
Indulge in the mouthwatering flavors of this Zesty Lemon Pepper Bacon Chicken Sandwich, a perfect combination of juicy chicken, crispy bacon, and melted cheese. Inspired by the delightful recipes of the Pioneer Woman, this dish is not only quick to prepare but also incredibly versatile. In just 20 minutes, you can serve up delicious sandwiches that are fully customizable with your favorite toppings. Whether you opt for a classic mayonnaise and Dijon mustard combo or fresh lettuce and tomato, this sandwich is sure to please everyone at your table.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
9
Ingredients
Ingredients
boneless skinless chicken breasts
4 (pounded to even thickness)
lemon pepper seasoning
to taste (liberally sprinkled on chicken)
pepper bacon
8 slices (cut in half)
cheddar cheese
4 slices (sliced (or your favorite cheese))
sandwich buns
4 (split for serving)
mayonnaise
to taste (for dressing the buns)
tomatoes
slices (optional) (freshly sliced)
lettuce leaves
4 (fresh and whole (optional))
sliced onion
to taste (freshly sliced (optional))
Instructions
1
On a clean cutting board, use a mallet to gently pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness for more uniform cooking.
2
Cut each strip of bacon in half. In a large (12") skillet, arrange the bacon pieces and cook over medium heat until they reach your desired crispness, turning as needed to avoid burning. Once cooked, transfer the bacon to a plate lined with paper towels to drain the excess grease.
3
Carefully pour off all but about 1 tablespoon of bacon grease from the skillet. If you prefer, you can pour it all off and return 1 tablespoon back to the skillet.
4
Return the skillet to medium-low to medium heat and generously season both sides of the pounded chicken breasts with lemon pepper seasoning.
5
Once the skillet is sufficiently heated, add the seasoned chicken breasts and cook for approximately 4 minutes on one side until golden brown.
6
Gently flip the chicken breasts over and layer the cooked bacon slices on top. Follow with a slice of your favorite cheese, ensuring it covers the bacon well.
7
Cover the skillet with a lid and cook for an additional 4 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and the chicken is cooked through (no pink meat visible when tested with a sharp knife).
8
While the chicken finishes cooking, prepare your sandwich buns by spreading mayonnaise, a Dijon-mayo blend, or ranch dressing on the inside.
9
Once the chicken is ready, assemble the sandwiches by placing a chicken breast on each bun, topped with optional fresh lettuce, sliced tomato, and sliced onion. Serve immediately and enjoy your flavorful creation!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Zesty Lemon Pepper Bacon Chicken Sandwich?
It is a flavorful sandwich featuring juicy chicken breasts seasoned with lemon pepper, topped with crispy pepper bacon and melted cheddar cheese, all served on a bun with fresh toppings.
How long does it take to make this chicken sandwich?
This recipe is very quick and can be prepared and served in approximately 20 minutes.
What type of chicken should I use?
The recipe calls for 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts.
Why should I pound the chicken breasts?
Pounding the chicken to an even thickness with a mallet ensures more uniform cooking and a more tender bite in the sandwich.
What kind of bacon is recommended?
The recipe specifically suggests using pepper bacon for an extra kick of flavor.
How do I prepare the bacon for the sandwich?
Cut each strip of bacon in half and cook them in a large skillet over medium heat until they reach your desired level of crispness.
Should I keep the bacon grease in the pan?
You should pour off most of it, leaving about 1 tablespoon in the skillet to cook the chicken for added flavor.
When do I add the lemon pepper seasoning?
Generously season both sides of the pounded chicken breasts before placing them into the heated skillet.
How long does the chicken cook on each side?
Cook for about 4 minutes on the first side until golden brown, then flip and cook for another 4 minutes after adding toppings.
When do I add the cheese and bacon to the chicken?
Layer the cooked bacon and a slice of cheese on top of the chicken breasts immediately after flipping them in the skillet.
What is the best way to melt the cheese on the chicken?
Cover the skillet with a lid during the final 4 minutes of cooking to trap heat and melt the cheese thoroughly.
How can I tell if the chicken is fully cooked?
The chicken is done when there is no pink meat visible when tested with a knife and the internal juices run clear.
What kind of cheese is best for this sandwich?
Cheddar cheese is suggested, but you can use any of your favorite varieties like Swiss or Provolone.
What spreads should I use on the buns?
You can use mayonnaise, a Dijon-mayonnaise blend, or ranch dressing to dress the buns.
Are there any suggested vegetable toppings?
Optional fresh toppings include lettuce leaves, sliced tomatoes, and sliced onions.
Is this recipe inspired by anyone?
Yes, this sandwich is inspired by the delicious and versatile cooking style of the Pioneer Woman.
Can I customize this sandwich?
Absolutely, the sandwich is highly customizable with your choice of cheese, condiments, and fresh toppings.
How many sandwiches does this recipe make?
This recipe is designed to make 4 individual chicken sandwiches.
What size skillet do I need?
A large 12-inch skillet is recommended to provide enough space for the chicken breasts.
Can I use regular bacon instead of pepper bacon?
Yes, regular bacon works fine if you do not have pepper bacon on hand.
Is this recipe suitable for a quick lunch?
Yes, it is tagged as an easy lunch and quick recipe because it takes only 20 minutes to complete.
How should I handle the bacon after cooking?
Transfer the cooked bacon pieces to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess grease before using them as a topping.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
While the recipe specifies breasts, you can use thighs, though cooking times may vary slightly.
Do I need to toast the buns?
Toasting the buns is optional but can add a nice texture to the sandwich.
What type of buns are best?
Standard sandwich buns or brioche buns work excellently for this recipe.
Can I add spice to the recipe?
Yes, you can add red pepper flakes or use a spicy cheese like pepper jack for more heat.
How should I store leftovers?
Store the cooked chicken and bacon separately in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
What makes the chicken 'zesty'?
The liberal use of lemon pepper seasoning provides the signature zesty and citrusy flavor profile.
Can I cook the bacon in the oven instead?
Yes, you can oven-bake the bacon, though you will need to add a tablespoon of oil or butter to the skillet for the chicken.
When should I serve the sandwich?
Serve the sandwich immediately while the chicken is hot and the cheese is melty for the best experience.