Prepare to dive into a flavor explosion with this Smoky Maple Bacon BBQ Chicken Sandwich! Combining the sweet, smoky, and savory notes of maple, bacon, and barbecue, this epic handheld is sure to become a new family favorite. Get ready for a cozy, melty, and utterly satisfying bite that’s guaranteed to bring everyone to the table.
Why You’ll Love This Smoky Maple Bacon BBQ Chicken Sandwich
This Smoky Maple Bacon BBQ Chicken Sandwich is the ultimate comfort food with a modern twist. The smoky, maple-infused barbecue sauce coats the juicy, crispy chicken, creating a zesty and indulgent flavor profile. The addition of crispy bacon and melty cheese takes this sandwich to new heights of deliciousness. It’s a hearty, satisfying meal that’s perfect for casual gatherings, game days, or anytime you crave something warm, comforting, and packed with bold flavors.
Ingredients
Gather up the key ingredients for this Smoky Maple Bacon BBQ Chicken Sandwich, including boneless, skinless chicken breasts, a smoky-sweet barbecue sauce, thick-cut bacon, and soft brioche buns. You’ll also need a few pantry staples like olive oil, salt, and pepper to bring it all together.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts – Juicy, protein-packed protein
- 1 cup smoky-sweet barbecue sauce – The flavor backbone of the dish
- 8 slices thick-cut bacon – Crispy, salty, and irresistible
- 4 brioche buns – Soft, pillowy, and perfect for soaking up the saucy goodness
- 2 tablespoons olive oil – For searing the chicken
Ingredient Substitutions
- Cheese: Cheddar, provolone, or pepper jack (for a melty, gooey topping)
- Dietary Swap: Grilled portobello mushrooms or plant-based chicken alternatives (for a vegetarian option)
How to Make Smoky Maple Bacon BBQ Chicken Sandwich
Get ready to create a flavor-packed masterpiece with these easy, chef-tested steps.
Step 1: Prep Work
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then grill or pan-sear them until cooked through and crispy on the outside. While the chicken is cooking, fry up the bacon until it’s golden and irresistibly crispy.
Step 2: Main Cooking Process
Next, prepare the smoky maple barbecue sauce by combining ketchup, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and a blend of spices. Toss the cooked chicken in the sauce, ensuring each piece is evenly coated.
Step 3: Final Steps/Assembly
To assemble the sandwiches, place the saucy chicken on the bottom buns, then top with the crispy bacon and a slice of melty cheese. Finish it off by adding the top buns and serving hot, with any extra sauce on the side for dipping.
Step 4: Finishing Touches
For an extra layer of flavor and texture, consider topping the sandwiches with crunchy coleslaw, tangy pickles, or a drizzle of creamy ranch dressing.
Recipe Variations & Tips
- Grill the Chicken: For a deeper smokiness, try grilling the chicken instead of pan-searing.
- Experiment with Sauces: You can also experiment with different barbecue sauce flavors, such as bourbon, spicy, or even a homemade version.
- Make it Epic: Consider adding crispy onion strings or a dollop of zesty homemade pickled red onions for an extra layer of flavor and texture.
- Healthier Swap: To reduce the calories and fat, use grilled or baked chicken breasts instead of fried, and opt for reduced-fat cheese or a lighter barbecue sauce.
Serving & Storage
Serve with: Crispy fries, a fresh, crunchy salad, or a side of creamy coleslaw for a complete and satisfying meal.
Storage: Any leftover chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, and can be reheated in the oven or microwave.
Make-Ahead: The cooked chicken can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Assemble the sandwiches just before serving for the best texture and flavor.
Nutrition Information
This Smoky Maple Bacon BBQ Chicken Sandwich is a hearty, indulgent treat, but it can also be part of a balanced diet when enjoyed in moderation. Each serving is packed with protein from the chicken and bacon, as well as a dose of complex carbohydrates from the bun.
- Serving Size: 1 sandwich
- Calories: 550 kcal
- Protein: 40 g
- Carbs: 50 g
- Fat: 25 g
- Sodium: 1,100 mg
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze the leftover chicken?
Absolutely! The cooked, sauced chicken can be frozen in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating and assembling the sandwiches.
What side dishes pair well with these sandwiches?
These Smoky Maple Bacon BBQ Chicken Sandwiches are delicious with a variety of sides, such as creamy coleslaw, roasted sweet potato fries, a fresh green salad, or a crisp, crunchy pickle spear.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different cheese varieties, such as cheddar, pepper jack, or even a creamy Havarti, to find your perfect flavor combination.
Is there a way to make this recipe healthier?
To reduce the calories and fat, consider using grilled or baked chicken breasts instead of fried, and opt for reduced-fat cheese or a lighter barbecue sauce. You can also serve the chicken on whole-wheat buns or lettuce wraps.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
The cooked chicken can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Assemble the sandwiches just before serving for the best texture and flavor.
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Smoky Maple Bacon BBQ Chicken Sandwich
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 sandwiches
- Category: 🔥 BBQ, Grilling & Smokehouse
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Smoky Maple Bacon BBQ Chicken Sandwich features juicy grilled chicken, crispy bacon, and a smoky maple BBQ sauce. Perfect for summer BBQs or any gathering!
Ingredients
– 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 4 slices of bacon
– 1 cup BBQ sauce
– 1/4 cup maple syrup
– 4 brioche buns
– 1 cup coleslaw (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
1. 1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
2. 2. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
3. 3. Grill the chicken for 6-7 minutes per side or until fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F).
4. 4. While chicken is grilling, cook bacon in a skillet until crispy.
5. 5. In a small bowl, mix BBQ sauce and maple syrup together.
6. 6. Brush the BBQ sauce mixture over the grilled chicken during the last 2 minutes of cooking.
7. 7. Toast brioche buns on the grill for 1-2 minutes.
8. 8. Assemble the sandwich: place grilled chicken on each bun, top with crispy bacon, and add coleslaw if desired.
9. 9. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
Feel free to adjust the sweetness of the BBQ sauce by adding more or less maple syrup. For added flavor, marinate the chicken in the BBQ sauce for a few hours before grilling.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 sandwich
- Calories: 550 kcal
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: BBQ, Chicken, Sandwich, Bacon, Maple