The Spicy Southwest Chicken Sandwich from McAlister's Deli features a juicy grilled chicken breast topped with zesty chipotle mayo, pepper jack cheese, fresh lettuce, tomato, and crispy jalapenos, all nestled inside a toasted bun for a bold and flavorful bite.
Equipments
- Grill or Griddle
- Toaster or Salamander
- Chef’s Knife
- Cutting Board
- Spatula
- Squeeze Bottle (for chipotle mayo)
- Tongs
- Sheet Pan (for jalapenos, if oven-crisping)
- Food Prep Containers
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 4 slices pepper jack cheese
- 1/3 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons canned chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
- 1 teaspoon lime juice
- 1 cup shredded romaine lettuce
- 1 large tomato
- 1/2 cup sliced pickled jalapenos or fresh jalapenos
- 4 sandwich buns
Ensure you use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for even grilling and consistent texture in your sandwich. For an authentic smoky flavor, incorporate smoked paprika and canned chipotle peppers in adobo sauce into your seasoning and mayo. Fresh ingredients like shredded romaine lettuce, ripe tomatoes, and crispy jalapenos are essential for balancing the sandwich's bold spices. Using pepper jack cheese adds a creamy, mildly spicy layer that complements the chipotle mayo. You can recreate the Spicy Southwest Chicken Sandwich from McAlister's Deli copycat menu with these key ingredients for a flavorful homemade version.
Instructions
- Preheat grill or griddle.
- Trim and prepare chicken breasts.
- In a food prep container, combine olive oil, smoked paprika, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
- Coat chicken breasts with spice mixture.
- Grill chicken breasts until cooked through.
- While grilling, slice tomato and shred lettuce on cutting board with chef’s knife.
- Blend mayonnaise, chipotle peppers in adobo, and lime juice in squeeze bottle.
- Place sandwich buns on toaster or under salamander to toast.
- Add pepper jack cheese onto chicken in last minute of grilling to melt.
- For crispy jalapenos, spread on sheet pan and toast if desired.
- Assemble sandwich: bottom bun, lettuce, tomato slice, grilled chicken with melted cheese, crispy jalapenos.
- Squeeze chipotle mayo over top ingredients.
- Place top bun.
- Serve immediately.
Substitution
The Spicy Southwest Chicken Sandwich from McAlister's Deli copycat menu delivers bold flavors through a grilled chicken breast seasoned with smoked paprika and chili powder, layered with spicy chipotle mayo and pepper jack cheese. If you can't find canned chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, substituting with chipotle powder mixed into the mayo gives a similar smoky heat. Fresh jalapenos can be oven-crisped on a sheet pan to replicate the texture of pickled ones, adjusting spiciness to your preference. Your sandwich buns can be grilled or toasted under a salamander for extra crunch and flavor. Using a squeeze bottle for the chipotle mayo ensures even distribution and a visually appealing presentation.
Tips
Ensure your chicken breasts are of even thickness by pounding them slightly for uniform grilling and juiciness. Use a squeeze bottle to evenly distribute chipotle mayo, guaranteeing consistent flavor in every bite. Toasting the sandwich buns just before assembly adds a pleasant crunch and helps prevent sogginess from the toppings. For best results, crisp the jalapenos separately on a sheet pan to enhance their texture without overpowering the sandwich's overall spice balance.
Nutritions
The Spicy Southwest Chicken Sandwich provides a balanced mix of protein, healthy fats, and fiber. The grilled chicken breast offers a lean source of high-quality protein essential for muscle repair and energy. Pepper jack cheese contributes calcium and fat, while the chipotle mayo adds flavor and some monounsaturated fats from olive oil. Fresh lettuce and tomato boost your sandwich with vitamins A, C, and antioxidants, enhancing your nutrient intake.
Storage
Store leftover grilled chicken wrapped tightly in aluminum foil or an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days to maintain freshness. Keep sliced tomatoes and shredded lettuce separately in sealed containers lined with paper towels to absorb moisture and preserve crispness. Your chipotle mayo sauce should be refrigerated in a sealed squeeze bottle and used within a week for optimal flavor.
Variation or Alternatives
You can substitute grilled chicken breasts with grilled turkey cutlets or marinated tofu for a different protein option. Swap pepper jack cheese for a milder Monterey Jack or a spicy cheddar to adjust heat levels. Fresh jalapenos can be replaced with pickled banana peppers or banana pepper rings to add a tangy twist. For a smoky flavor, try adding a dash of smoked sea salt or chipotle powder to your mayo mixture before squeezing over the sandwich.
Allergies
The Spicy Southwest Chicken Sandwich contains potential allergens such as dairy from the pepper jack cheese and eggs from the mayonnaise. The sandwich bun may contain gluten, which could trigger reactions in individuals with gluten sensitivity or celiac disease. If you have allergies to any of these ingredients, it's best to check substitutions or avoid the sandwich to prevent adverse effects.
Why this recipe?
The Spicy Southwest Chicken Sandwich from McAlister's Deli features tender, juicy chicken breast seasoned with a bold, smoky blend of spices that deliver a satisfying kick. Topped with fresh lettuce, ripe tomatoes, and a creamy chipotle sauce, it balances heat with cool, creamy textures for an irresistible flavor profile. The sandwich's combination of vibrant Southwest flavors and quality ingredients makes it a popular choice for customers who crave both taste and heartiness. You can recreate this crowd-pleaser at home to enjoy a flavorful, restaurant-quality meal any time.