The Simply Grilled Chicken Sandwich from Red Robin features a tender, marinated grilled chicken breast layered with fresh lettuce, ripe tomatoes, and crisp onions on a toasted bun, delivering a deliciously light and satisfying meal.
Equipments
- Grill or grill pan
- Tongs
- Meat thermometer
- Mixing bowl
- Marinade brush
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Toaster or skillet (for bun)
- Plate or serving tray
Ingredients
- 1 boneless, skinless chicken breast
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 hamburger bun
- 2 leaves fresh lettuce
- 2 slices ripe tomato
- 2 slices onion
Using boneless, skinless chicken breast ensures a tender and juicy texture when grilled, especially when marinated with olive oil, lemon juice, and a blend of garlic and onion powders for added flavor. Fresh vegetables like lettuce, ripe tomatoes, and crisp onions provide a refreshing contrast to the savory chicken, enhancing the sandwich's overall taste and nutritional value. Toasting the hamburger bun adds a slight crunch and helps hold the sandwich together without becoming soggy. Properly using a meat thermometer guarantees the chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature of 165degF, ensuring both safety and optimal juiciness. Your homemade version of the Simply Grilled Chicken Sandwich from Red Robin will capture the light, satisfying quality that makes this menu item a favorite.
Instructions
- Preheat grill or grill pan.
- In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Place chicken breast in bowl and coat with marinade.
- Let chicken marinate for at least 15 minutes.
- Slice tomato and onion; wash and dry lettuce leaves.
- Grill marinated chicken breast for 5–7 minutes per side, until internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Toast hamburger bun in toaster or skillet until lightly browned.
- Assemble sandwich: place grilled chicken breast on bun bottom.
- Layer lettuce, tomato slices, and onion slices on top of chicken.
- Cap with bun top and serve on plate or tray.
Substitution
The Simply Grilled Chicken Sandwich from Red Robin copycat menu can be easily adapted if you don't have a grill; using a grill pan or skillet works well to achieve a similar char and flavor. You can substitute lemon juice with lime juice or a splash of vinegar to maintain the acidity in the marinade. If fresh lettuce is unavailable, crisp romaine or iceberg lettuce can be good alternatives, while avocado slices or pickles offer complementary texture and taste. The chicken breast thickness should be consistent for even cooking, and a meat thermometer helps ensure it reaches the safe internal temperature of 165degF (74degC). Toasting the bun in a skillet or toaster will enhance the sandwich's overall texture and flavor experience.
Tips
Ensure your chicken breast is patted dry before marinating to allow the flavors to penetrate better. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165degF (75degC) for safe consumption. While grilling, avoid pressing down on the chicken to retain its juiciness. Toasting the bun adds texture, so use a toaster or skillet until it is lightly browned before assembling your sandwich.
Nutritions
The Simply Grilled Chicken Sandwich from Red Robin provides a balanced source of protein, primarily from the lean grilled chicken breast, which supports muscle maintenance and repair. The fresh lettuce, tomato, and onion contribute essential vitamins such as vitamin C, vitamin A, and dietary fiber for improved digestion and immune function. Olive oil in the marinade offers healthy monounsaturated fats that promote heart health. When you choose this sandwich, you enjoy a nutrient-rich, lower-calorie option that fits well into a wholesome diet.
Storage
Store leftover Simply Grilled Chicken Sandwich components separately to maintain freshness and texture; wrap the grilled chicken breast in aluminum foil or place it in an airtight container before refrigerating. Keep fresh vegetables like lettuce, tomato, and onion in sealed containers or produce bags inside the fridge's crisper drawer. Reheat the chicken thoroughly to an internal temperature of 165degF (75degC) using a microwave or oven, while toasting the bun again to restore crispness before assembling your sandwich.
Variation or Alternatives
Substitute chicken breast with a turkey breast for a leaner protein option while maintaining juiciness. Use Greek yogurt mixed with lemon juice, garlic powder, and fresh herbs as a marinade to enhance tenderness and flavor complexity. Swap the hamburger bun for a whole wheat or multigrain bun to add fiber and nutrients to your sandwich. Grill vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini alongside the chicken for extra color and a smoky taste that enriches your meal experience.
Allergies
The Simply Grilled Chicken Sandwich contains common allergens such as gluten in the hamburger bun and potential traces of soy or wheat if cross-contamination occurs during preparation. The sandwich also includes raw onions and tomatoes, which could trigger intolerance in sensitive individuals. You should check with the restaurant staff to ensure the meal meets your specific allergy requirements and avoid any ingredients that might cause reactions.
Why this recipe?
The O. Simply Grilled Chicken Sandwich from Red Robin is beloved for its perfectly seasoned, tender, and juicy grilled chicken breast, layered with fresh lettuce, ripe tomatoes, and a toasted bun that balances flavor and texture. Fans appreciate its wholesome ingredients and the satisfying, lighter alternative it offers compared to heavier sandwich options. Your taste buds will enjoy the harmonious blend of smokiness and freshness that makes this sandwich a standout on the menu. Attempting a copycat version allows you to recreate this well-balanced, flavorful experience at home with control over ingredients and customization.