The BBQ Chicken & Jalapeno from Schlotzsky's features tender smoked chicken glazed with tangy barbecue sauce, fresh jalapeno slices, melted cheddar cheese, and crisp lettuce, all nestled inside a warm, toasted bun for a spicy and savory flavor explosion.
Equipments
- Smoker or grill
- Sauce brush
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Cheese slicer or grater
- Oven or toaster
- Tongs
- Bun warmer or toaster
- Salad spinner (for lettuce)
- Serving tray/plate
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breast
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
- 2 fresh jalapenos
- 4 oz (115g) cheddar cheese
- 2 cups shredded lettuce
- 4 sandwich buns
Using fresh jalapenos ensures the right level of heat and enhances the overall flavor of the BBQ Chicken & Jalapeno sandwich. Boneless, skinless chicken breast is recommended for even cooking and ease of slicing, and smoking the chicken adds a distinct smoky depth. Choose a high-quality barbecue sauce to achieve the perfect balance of tangy and sweet. Melting sharp cheddar cheese over the chicken creates a creamy contrast, while crisp shredded lettuce adds a refreshing crunch. Your homemade version of the BBQ Chicken & Jalapeno from Schlotzsky's will capture the signature spicy and savory flavor that makes this sandwich a fan favorite.
Instructions
- Preheat smoker or grill.
- Brush chicken breasts with barbecue sauce using sauce brush.
- Smoke or grill chicken until fully cooked.
- Slice cooked chicken with chef’s knife on cutting board.
- Wash and dry lettuce using salad spinner.
- Cut or grate cheddar cheese using cheese slicer or grater.
- Slice jalapenos into rings with chef’s knife.
- Toast sandwich buns in oven, toaster, or bun warmer.
- Assemble: Place lettuce on bottom bun.
- Layer sliced BBQ chicken on lettuce.
- Add fresh jalapeno slices on chicken.
- Top with sliced or grated cheddar cheese.
- Place top bun on sandwich.
- Serve on tray or plate with tongs.
Substitution
The BBQ Chicken & Jalapeno from Schlotzsky's copycat menu delivers a perfect balance of smoky, tangy, and spicy flavors. If fresh jalapenos are not available, pickled jalapenos or a dash of cayenne pepper can provide a similar kick. When grilling or smoking chicken breast, maintaining a consistent temperature ensures the meat stays juicy and tender. You can substitute cheddar cheese with Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for a creamier texture with a bit of heat. Using a bun warmer or toaster will keep the bread warm and slightly crispy, enhancing the overall sandwich experience.
Tips
Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165degF (74degC) to guarantee it is fully cooked and safe to eat. Use a salad spinner to thoroughly dry the lettuce, preventing soggy sandwiches that can weaken the bun's texture. When slicing jalapenos, remove the seeds if you prefer less heat, but keep them for a spicier kick tailored to your taste. Toasting the sandwich buns before assembling helps maintain their structure and provides a satisfying crunch in every bite.
Nutritions
The BBQ Chicken & Jalapeno sandwich delivers a balanced mix of protein from the smoked chicken breast and calcium from the melted cheddar cheese. Fresh jalapeno slices provide a natural boost of vitamin C and capsaicin, which can aid in metabolism. The shredded lettuce adds dietary fiber and essential vitamins while contributing minimal calories. Your meal offers a flavorful combination of nutrients that support muscle repair and immune health.
Storage
Store leftover BBQ Chicken & Jalapeno sandwiches in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent moisture loss. Refrigerate within two hours of preparation to keep the chicken safe and the lettuce crisp. When ready to enjoy, reheat the sandwich in an oven or toaster oven to restore the smoky flavor and melt the cheddar cheese evenly.
Variation or Alternatives
For a variation, swap the smoked chicken for grilled pulled pork glazed with a smoky chipotle barbecue sauce to enhance the depth of flavor. Replace fresh jalapenos with pickled jalapenos or banana peppers for a tangier bite. Use pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar to add a creamy spiciness that complements the heat from the peppers. You can also grill the sandwich buns for added texture and a slight char that accentuates the smoky elements.
Allergies
The BBQ Chicken & Jalapeno sandwich contains common allergens such as dairy from cheddar cheese and gluten from the sandwich buns, which may cause reactions in sensitive individuals. Fresh jalapenos can also trigger spicy food allergies or intolerances in some people. You should check ingredient labels and consult with your healthcare provider if you have food allergies before enjoying this meal.
Why this recipe?
The BBQ Chicken & Jalapeno menu from Schlotzsky's combines smoky barbecue flavors with a spicy kick, creating a bold and satisfying taste experience. Freshly grilled chicken pairs perfectly with tangy jalapenos, delivering a balanced mix of heat and savory richness. This distinctive flavor profile is complemented by Schlotzsky's signature sandwich bread, adding a unique texture that elevates every bite. You'll find making a copycat version worth the effort to replicate this crave-worthy combination in your own kitchen.