Ah, the sizzle of the grill! Isn’t it just the sound of summer?
There’s something about biting into a juicy chicken burger, all smoky and savory, that makes the sun feel a little brighter. Whether you’re lounging in the backyard or dodging the occasional rain shower (thanks, unpredictable weather!
), these grilled gems are your ticket to a perfect summer meal.
Steps
- Prepare Chicken Seasoning: Mix chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, ground cumin, dried oregano, black pepper, and salt in a bowl. Lightly coat the chicken breast halves with olive oil, then generously sprinkle the seasoning mixture on both sides.
- Cook the Chicken: Preheat a clean, greased grill to medium-high heat. Grill the seasoned chicken for 3-5 minutes on each side, ensuring it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F. Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a plate and cover it to keep it warm.
- Prepare Toppings: Mash the avocado in a bowl and add a splash of lemon juice to prevent browning. Slice the onion thinly and prepare other toppings like lettuce, tomato, cheese, and pickles.
- Assemble the Sandwich: On the bottom half of each bun, place a grilled chicken breast. Add a slice of cheese, followed by a generous scoop of mashed avocado, and your choice of toppings. Place the top bun on and serve immediately.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breast halves
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 large avocado, peeled, seeded, and mashed
- 4 slices provolone cheese, or your preferred type
- 1/2 of a red onion, thinly sliced (or pickled red onion)
- 4 leaves of leafy green lettuce, washed and dried
- 4 hamburger buns
Nutritional Values
Calories: 1912kcal | Carbohydrates: 124g | Protein: 148g | Fat: 92g | Saturated Fat: 28g | Cholesterol: 368mg | Sodium: 3628mg | Potassium: 3528mg | Fiber: 24g | Sugar: 16g | Vitamin A: 12360IU | Vitamin C: 36.4mg | Calcium: 1288mg | Iron: 12.8mg
FAQ
- How do you properly grill chicken for a sandwich?
- Begin by mixing the seasonings and lightly coating the chicken breast halves in oil. Sprinkle the seasonings on both sides of the chicken. Grill the chicken over medium-high heat for 3-5 minutes on each side until it reaches an internal temperature of 160 degrees F. Remove from the grill and cover to keep warm, allowing the chicken to continue cooking slightly off the heat.
- What are some recommended toppings for a grilled chicken sandwich?
- You can top your grilled chicken sandwich with mashed avocado (or guacamole), fresh or pickled red onion, butter or iceberg lettuce, beefsteak tomato slices, your choice of cheese (like provolone), and pickles.
- How can I make this recipe healthier?
- To make the grilled chicken sandwich healthier, consider wrapping the chicken and toppings in lettuce instead of using a bun. This reduces the carbohydrate content and makes the meal more macro-friendly.
- Can the grilled chicken sandwich be prepared in advance?
- Yes, you can prepare the chicken seasoning and chop the toppings ahead of time. This will help streamline the assembly process when you’re ready to serve the sandwiches.
- Is this recipe suitable for a gluten-free diet?
- Absolutely! Simply use gluten-free buns in place of regular hamburger buns to make this recipe suitable for those following a gluten-free diet.
Tips
- Avoid Overcooking the Chicken: Ensure the chicken is cooked to 160°F for optimal juiciness and taste. Overcooking can lead to dry chicken, so it’s important to monitor the internal temperature and remove it from the grill once done.
- Prevent Avocado Browning: To keep the mashed avocado fresh and green, add a spritz of lemon juice. This not only enhances flavor but also prevents the avocado from browning too quickly.
- Prepare in Advance: Save time by mixing the chicken seasoning and preparing the toppings ahead of time. This makes the assembly process quicker and more efficient when it’s time to serve.
- Consider Gluten-Free Options: For a gluten-free version, simply swap regular buns with gluten-free buns or use lettuce leaves as a wrap to enjoy a lighter, carb-free sandwich.
Equipment
- Grill – If you don’t already have one, a grill is essential for cooking the chicken breasts as described.
- Meat Thermometer – To ensure the chicken is cooked to the recommended 160 degrees F.
- Avocado Masher – A tool specifically designed to mash avocados effectively.
- Grill Brush – For cleaning and greasing the grill before cooking.
