The Big Kahuna from Jersey Giant Subs features tender grilled chicken, smoky ham, melted Swiss cheese, crisp lettuce, ripe tomatoes, and tangy pineapple slices, all layered inside a toasted sub roll for a vibrant blend of savory and sweet flavors.
Equipments
- Grill or grill pan
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Bread knife
- Cheese slicer (optional)
- Toaster or oven
- Tongs
- Spatula
- Mixing bowls (for prepping ingredients)
- Serving tray or plate
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 8 oz (225g) smoked ham slices
- 8 oz (225g) Swiss cheese, sliced
- 4 cups shredded lettuce
- 2 large tomatoes
- 1 cup pineapple slices (fresh or canned)
- 4 sub rolls
Make sure to use fresh, boneless, skinless chicken breasts for tender grilled chicken and opt for high-quality smoked ham to achieve the authentic smoky flavor characteristic of the Big Kahuna. Swiss cheese should be sliced evenly to melt smoothly, while fresh lettuce and ripe tomatoes add crispness and juiciness to balance the sandwich's richness. Pineapple slices can be fresh or canned, depending on your preference, but ensure they are well-drained to prevent sogginess in the sub roll. Toast the sub rolls lightly for a perfect texture that holds all ingredients together without becoming soggy. Your Big Kahuna from Jersey Giant Subs copycat menu will capture the vibrant blend of savory and sweet flavors that define this iconic sandwich.
Instructions
- Preheat grill or grill pan.
- Slice chicken breasts into thin strips.
- Season chicken as desired.
- Grill chicken until cooked through.
- Warm ham slices briefly on grill.
- Slice Swiss cheese if not pre-sliced.
- Wash and shred lettuce.
- Wash and slice tomatoes.
- Slice pineapple into rings if using fresh.
- Slice sub rolls lengthwise with bread knife.
- Toast sub rolls in oven or toaster (optional).
- Layer grilled chicken on bottom half of each roll.
- Add ham slices on top of chicken.
- Place Swiss cheese over ham.
- Arrange lettuce and tomato slices on top.
- Add pineapple slices.
- Close sub with top half of roll.
- Slice sub in half, if desired.
- Serve immediately on tray or plate.
Substitution
The Big Kahuna from Jersey Giant Subs copycat menu combines tender grilled chicken, smoky ham, Swiss cheese, crisp lettuce, ripe tomatoes, and tangy pineapple slices inside a toasted sub roll, delivering a truly unique sweet and savory experience. You can substitute smoked ham with turkey or roast beef if preferred, and fresh pineapple slices can be swapped with canned for convenience without compromising flavor. If grilling equipment is unavailable, use a grill pan or oven broiler to achieve similar char and tenderness on the chicken. For added moisture, a light brush of mayonnaise or mustard works well as an optional spread inside the sub roll. Using store-bought shredded lettuce or pre-sliced tomatoes can speed up preparation when time is limited.
Tips
Make sure to preheat your grill or grill pan thoroughly to achieve even cooking and grill marks on the chicken strips. Use a sharp chef's knife and bread knife for clean, precise cuts on the chicken, vegetables, and sub rolls, which helps with assembly and presentation. When toasting the sub rolls, watch closely to avoid burning and ensure they remain crispy without becoming too hard. You'll want to assemble the sandwich just before serving to keep the lettuce crisp and pineapple fresh, maintaining the ideal balance of textures and flavors.
Nutritions
The Big Kahuna from Jersey Giant Subs provides a balanced combination of lean protein from grilled chicken and ham, which supports muscle health and repair. Swiss cheese adds a good source of calcium and vitamin D, essential for bone strength and immune function. Fresh vegetables like lettuce and tomatoes contribute dietary fiber, vitamins A and C, and antioxidants that support overall well-being. Pineapple slices add a touch of natural sweetness along with bromelain, an enzyme that may aid digestion and reduce inflammation, making this sub a nutritious choice for your meal.
Storage
To maintain freshness of The Big Kahuna ingredients, store grilled chicken, ham, sliced Swiss cheese, and pineapple separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator at or below 40degF (4degC). Keep lettuce and tomatoes in perforated plastic bags or produce containers to preserve crispness, and store sub rolls in a bread box or sealed bag at room temperature to avoid sogginess. When ready to serve, assemble the sandwich to prevent soggy bread and enjoy optimal flavor and texture.
Variation or Alternatives
You can try swapping smoked ham with turkey or roast beef for a different protein twist while maintaining a savory profile. Using pepper jack or mozzarella cheese instead of Swiss will add a subtle spicy or milder creaminess to your sandwich. For a smoky flavor, consider grilling pineapple slices alongside the chicken to caramelize the natural sugars. If you prefer a lighter option, replace the sub roll with a whole wheat wrap or lettuce leaves to reduce carbs and keep your meal fresh.
Allergies
The Big Kahuna from Jersey Giant Subs contains common allergens such as milk from the Swiss cheese and wheat from the sub rolls, which may trigger reactions in people with dairy or gluten sensitivities. The sandwich also includes smoked ham, which could be problematic for individuals with pork allergies or dietary restrictions. Be sure to consider these ingredients carefully if you have specific food allergies to ensure your meal is safe.
Why this recipe?
The Big Kahuna sandwich from Jersey Giant Subs is celebrated for its generous layers of roast beef, grilled onions, and melted cheese, delivering a flavorful and satisfying experience. Its unique combination of savory ingredients and fresh bread creates a hearty meal that stands out among typical deli offerings. You'll appreciate the balance of textures and rich taste, making it a rewarding challenge to recreate at home. Crafting a copycat version allows you to enjoy this fan-favorite sub anytime while customizing it to your preferences.