The Shorebird from Islands Fine Burgers & Drinks features a juicy grilled chicken breast topped with smoky bacon, melted cheddar cheese, fresh lettuce, ripe tomato, and tangy aioli sauce, all nestled in a toasted brioche bun for a flavorful and satisfying beach-inspired burger experience.
Equipments
- Grill
- Grill brush
- Tongs
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Spatula
- Fry pan or skillet (for bacon)
- Cheese slicer (optional)
- Sauce bottle or bowl (for aioli)
- Toaster or grill (for brioche bun)
- Plate or serving tray
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 slices bacon
- 2 slices cheddar cheese
- 2 brioche buns
- 2 leaves fresh lettuce
- 2 slices ripe tomato
- 4 tablespoons aioli sauce
Ensure you select fresh, high-quality chicken breasts to keep your Shorebird burger juicy and tender. Choose thick-cut bacon for a smoky, crispy texture that complements the melted cheddar cheese perfectly. Opt for ripe tomatoes and crisp lettuce leaves to add freshness and crunch to each bite. Use toasted brioche buns to provide a soft yet sturdy base that holds all ingredients together without becoming soggy. Your homemade Shorebird from Islands Fine Burgers & Drinks copycat menu will deliver an authentic beach-inspired flavor experience.
Instructions
- Preheat grill.
- Clean grill grates with grill brush.
- Preheat fry pan or skillet over medium heat.
- Cook bacon in fry pan until crispy; drain on paper towels.
- Slice tomato and cheddar cheese (if not pre-sliced) using chef’s knife.
- Slice brioche buns in half.
- Season chicken breasts as desired.
- Grill chicken breasts until cooked through, flipping with tongs.
- Place cheddar cheese slices on chicken breasts during last minute of grilling to melt.
- Toast brioche buns on grill or toaster until golden.
- Spread aioli sauce on both sides of each bun using sauce bottle or bowl.
- Assemble the sandwich: place lettuce and tomato slices on the bottom half of each bun.
- Add grilled chicken breast with melted cheddar cheese.
- Place 2 slices of bacon on top of the cheese on each sandwich.
- Top with the other half of the bun.
- Serve on plate or tray.
Substitution
The Shorebird from Islands Fine Burgers & Drinks is a popular choice for recreating at home, combining a grilled chicken breast with bacon, cheddar, lettuce, tomato, and aioli on a brioche bun. If you don't have brioche buns, substitute with any soft, slightly sweet bread like Hawaiian rolls for a similar texture. When grilling chicken, ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165degF (74degC) for safety and juiciness; use a meat thermometer if available. If you lack a grill, a grill pan or skillet can provide nice sear marks and flavor. Your aioli can be swapped with flavored mayo or garlic mayo if you need to simplify the sauce preparation.
Tips
Ensure your grill grates are cleaned thoroughly with a grill brush before cooking to prevent sticking and achieve clear grill marks on the chicken breast. Use tongs to flip the chicken rather than a fork, which helps retain juices and keeps the meat tender. When cooking bacon in the skillet, drain it on paper towels to remove excess grease and maintain crispiness in the burger. Spread aioli sauce evenly on both sides of the toasted brioche bun to keep your sandwich moist and packed with flavor.
Nutritions
The Shorebird burger offers a balanced nutritional profile with high-quality protein from grilled chicken breasts and bacon, aiding muscle maintenance and satiety. Cheddar cheese contributes calcium and vitamin D, supporting bone health, while fresh lettuce and ripe tomato provide essential vitamins like A and C, along with dietary fiber for digestive health. The brioche bun adds carbohydrates for energy, though it also increases caloric content, so portion control is advisable depending on your dietary goals. Your intake of fats comes primarily from bacon and aioli sauce, providing flavor but necessitating mindful consumption to maintain heart health.
Storage
Store leftover Shorebird burger components separately in airtight containers to maintain freshness and prevent sogginess; wrap the grilled chicken and bacon tightly in foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate within two hours of cooking. Keep the brioche buns in a sealed bag at room temperature or freeze for longer storage, thawing before use. Your fresh lettuce, tomato, and aioli should be stored in the refrigerator and added to the sandwich just before serving to preserve texture and flavor.
Variation or Alternatives
You can substitute smoked gouda or pepper jack cheese for cheddar to add a different flavor dimension. For a healthier twist, try turkey bacon or grilled turkey breast instead of chicken to reduce calories. Swap the aioli sauce with a spicy chipotle mayo or garlic yogurt sauce for varied tanginess. Grilling the tomato slices briefly before assembling can add a smoky richness that complements the sandwich.
Allergies
The Shorebird burger contains common allergens such as dairy from the cheddar cheese and eggs in the aioli sauce, which may trigger reactions in sensitive individuals. The brioche bun includes gluten, posing a risk for those with celiac disease or gluten intolerance. You should confirm ingredient details with the restaurant if you have allergies to chicken, bacon, or any components in the sauce to avoid adverse reactions.
Why this recipe?
The Shorebird menu from Islands Fine Burgers & Drinks features signature tropical flavors and fresh ingredients that create a unique and satisfying dining experience. Fans appreciate the perfect balance of juicy burger patties, savory toppings, and house-made sauces that deliver a taste reflecting the brand's island-inspired vibe. Your attempt to make a copycat version lets you recreate this distinctive flavor combination at home, offering a delicious and customizable meal. This makes it a worthy culinary challenge for food enthusiasts seeking restaurant-quality results.