The simple smoked chicken sandwich is the perfect combination of smoky flavors and tender chicken. The smokiness comes from a combination of smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder rubbed into the chicken before it’s cooked. The result? A juicy and flavorful sandwich with a bold flavor that’s super sure to please even the pickiest eater.
INGREDIENTS:
– 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– Salt & pepper to taste
– 4 slices of bread (your choice)
– Mayo or mustard (optional)
– Sliced cheese (optional)
– Lettuce, tomato, and onion (optional)
INSTRUCTIONS:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F.
- Place the chicken breasts in a shallow baking dish or on a baking sheet.
- In a small bowl, mix the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and some pepper until combined. Rub this mixture onto both sides of the chicken breasts.
- Bake for almost 25 minutes or until cooked (internal temperature should be 165°F).
- Let the chicken cool for 5 minutes before slicing it into strips or cubes.
- Toast the slices of bread in either a skillet or toaster oven if desired, then spread with mayonnaise or mustard (optional).
- Top the bread with lettuce, tomato, onion, and cheese if desired.
- Add the sliced chicken to the sandwich and have super fun.
From where the word smoked chicken came:
The origin of the word “smoked” to food dates back centuries. Primarily, it was used to preserve foods, such as meats, by exposing them to smoke over an extended period. This allowed people to enjoy protein-rich meals year-round and even during long periods without access to refrigeration or other forms of food storage. Today, smoking is used mainly for its flavor qualities rather than preservation, but the technique’s roots remain the same.
TIPS AND TRICKS:
– Try adding a few slices of bacon to the sandwich for smokiness and flavor.
– If you don’t have smoked paprika, you can use regular paprika instead.
– To make this sandwich even healthier, try using whole grain bread or swapping out the mayo for avocado or hummus.
– Feel free to experiment with different seasonings. Curry powder, cumin, chili powder, and oregano work great with chicken.
– This sandwich is delicious and served hot or cold.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:
Q: How do I store the leftover smoked chicken?
A: Leftover smoked chicken can be stored in an airtight jar inside the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Q: Can I freeze the smoked chicken?
A: You can freeze the cooked smoked chicken for up to 6 months. To thaw, place it in the refrigerator for a complete night.
Q: Can I use other types of meat instead of chicken breasts?
A: Yes, if desired, you can also use boneless skinless thighs or drumsticks for this recipe. Adjust cooking time as needed for your particular cut of meat.
Q: Can I make this sandwich without the cheese?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to omit the cheese or replace it with your favorite alternative, such as vegan cheese.
CONCLUSION:
Enjoy your delicious, simple smoked chicken sandwich! You won’t be disappointed with a combination of smoky flavors, tender chicken, and all your favorite fixings! This quick and easy dinner is perfect for busy weeknights when you need more time to cook from scratch. Plus, it’s packed full of protein and flavor. What more could you want? Happy eating 🙂
Note: If grilling the chicken instead of baking it, adjust the cooking time accordingly. Chicken should be at an internal temperature of 165°F before consumption. Make sure to utilize a meat thermometer to check the temperature of the chicken.
Enjoy your simple smoked chicken sandwich and fill your tummy.