The Char-Grilled Chicken Sandwich from Cook Out features tender, smoky marinated chicken breast grilled to perfection, layered with fresh lettuce and ripe tomato on a soft, toasted bun, delivering a savory and satisfying classic sandwich experience.
Equipments
- Grill (Charcoal or Gas)
- Tongs
- Meat thermometer
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Mixing bowl (for marinade)
- Basting brush (optional)
- Sandwich/bun toaster or skillet
- Plate or tray for assembling
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 4 hamburger buns
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (for toasting buns)
- 4 leaves fresh lettuce
- 2 ripe tomatoes
Ensure your chicken breasts are evenly marinated with olive oil, soy sauce, lemon juice, and spices such as smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder to achieve a smoky, flavorful profile. Use a meat thermometer to confirm the internal temperature reaches 165degF for safe consumption while retaining juiciness. Toasting the hamburger buns with unsalted butter provides a soft yet slightly crispy texture that complements the sandwich. Fresh lettuce and ripe tomato add moisture and crunch, balancing the savory grilled chicken. Your Char-Grilled Chicken Sandwich from Cook Out copycat menu will stand out with these key ingredient preparations and techniques.
Instructions
- Flatten chicken breasts to even thickness using a knife or meat mallet.
- In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, soy sauce, lemon juice, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt to make the marinade.
- Add chicken breasts to the marinade, coat well, and refrigerate for 30 minutes to 2 hours.
- Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
- Remove chicken from marinade and let excess drip off.
- Grill chicken breasts for 4-6 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- While chicken is grilling, slice tomatoes and rinse/dry lettuce leaves.
- Split burger buns and spread butter on the cut sides.
- Toast buns on the grill or skillet until golden brown.
- Place grilled chicken breast on the bottom half of each toasted bun.
- Layer with lettuce leaves and tomato slices.
- Cap each sandwich with the top bun.
- Serve immediately.
Substitution
The Char-Grilled Chicken Sandwich from Cook Out copycat menu captures the smoky, savory flavors of the original by using marinated chicken breasts grilled over charcoal or gas for authentic taste. If you don't have access to a grill, cooking the chicken on a stovetop skillet with a grill pan can mimic the charred effect. When layering the sandwich, swapping iceberg lettuce for romaine or butter lettuce offers a crunchier texture without overpowering flavors. For tomato alternatives, vine-ripened or heirloom tomatoes provide juicier, sweeter variations to enhance your sandwich. You can toast buns in a skillet with butter if a sandwich toaster isn't available, ensuring a warm and crispy finish.
Tips
Ensure the chicken breasts are patted dry after marinating to prevent flare-ups and promote even grilling. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165degF (75degC) for food safety and optimal juiciness. Butter the insides of the hamburger buns lightly before toasting to achieve a crispy, golden texture. When assembling your sandwich, place lettuce on the bottom bun to keep the bread from getting soggy from tomato juices.
Nutritions
The Char-Grilled Chicken Sandwich offers a balanced source of protein from the lean, marinated chicken breasts, each typically providing around 25-30 grams of protein per serving. Olive oil in the marinade contributes healthy monounsaturated fats, while the fresh lettuce and ripe tomatoes provide dietary fiber, vitamins A and C, and antioxidants essential for immune support. The sandwich bun adds carbohydrates for energy, with the optional butter adding minimal saturated fat, depending on amount used. Your meal supplies a nutritious combination of macro and micronutrients, making it both satisfying and health-conscious.
Storage
Store leftover char-grilled chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate within two hours of cooking to maintain freshness and prevent bacteria growth. For best flavor and texture, consume the sandwich within 3-4 days, reheating the chicken to an internal temperature of 165degF (75degC) before assembling. Keep lettuce and tomato slices separate and refrigerated to avoid sogginess, adding them fresh when ready to serve your sandwich.
Variation or Alternatives
You can substitute chicken thighs for breasts, as they stay juicier and offer a richer flavor when grilled. Marinate the chicken overnight for a deeper infusion of smoky paprika and garlic, enhancing the savory profile. Instead of toasting buns with butter, try brushing them with garlic-infused olive oil for a subtle aromatic twist. For extra crunch, add pickled red onions or crisp cucumber slices alongside the lettuce and tomato.
Allergies
The Char-Grilled Chicken Sandwich contains soy sauce, which is a common allergen for individuals with soy allergies. The sandwich also includes wheat in the hamburger buns, posing a risk for those with gluten intolerance or wheat allergies. If you have sensitivities to any spices or fresh produce like tomatoes or lettuce, make sure to check ingredients carefully before enjoying your meal.
Why this recipe?
Char-Grilled Chicken Sandwich at Cook Out is loved for its smoky flavor achieved through authentic open-flame grilling, creating a juicy and tender texture. The sandwich combines a perfectly seasoned chicken breast with fresh lettuce, tomato, and pickles, all nestled in a soft, toasted bun. Replicating this recipe allows your taste buds to experience the unique blend of smoky and savory notes in the comfort of your home. Your next homemade meal will capture the essence of Cook Out's classic grilling technique, making it a rewarding culinary challenge.