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This lighter take on the classic Chick-fil-A grilled chicken club is great for lunch or a fast dinner. It all comes together in less than 45 minutes with juicy marinated grilled chicken, crispy bacon, fresh greens, and a zesty honey mustard spread on whole wheat buns.
I came up with this when I was craving Chick-fil-A but wanted to know exactly what went in my food. Now it’s my go-to when I want something lighter but still packed with flavor.
What You Need
- Chicken breasts without skin or bones: lean and soak up the marinade nicely
- Bacon cooked crispy: adds a smoky crunch that’s hard to resist
- Buns made from whole wheat: nutty and sturdy enough to hold everything
- Fresh lettuce leaves: for some crispness and bright flavor
- A ripe medium tomato: gives moisture and a little tang
- Shredded cheddar: creamy and sharp cheddar works best for depth
- Olive oil: keeps chicken juicy in the marinade—extra virgin for the best taste
- Fresh lemon juice: adds zing and helps tenderize the chicken
- Garlic and onion powders: for a mild savory punch without overdoing it
- Salt and pepper: basic seasonings to bring out all the flavors
- Mayonnaise: creamy base for the sauce—use regular or light
- Dijon mustard: gives the sauce a little kick and depth
- Honey: sweetens and balances the sauce—local honey tastes the best
Steps To Make It
- Get the Chicken Ready:
- Mix olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Slather the chicken in the marinade. Let it soak for 15 minutes so it soaks up all the flavor and stays juicy.
- Cook the Chicken:
- Fire up the grill to medium-high. Place the chicken on there and cook about 6 to 7 minutes each side. Use a thermometer to check it’s 165° Fahrenheit inside. After cooking, let it rest for 5 minutes so the juices spread out and stay in the meat.
- Fry the Bacon:
- Cook bacon strips in a pan over medium heat until they’re nice and crisp but not burnt. Take them out and drain the fat on paper towels to keep them crunchy without being greasy.
- Mix the Sauce:
- In a bowl, stir together mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and honey until smooth and creamy. This sauce ties all the flavors together with a sweet and tangy punch.
- Put It All Together:
- Spread sauce generously on the bottom buns. Stack sliced grilled chicken, bacon, lettuce, and tomato. Sprinkle shredded cheddar on top if you want, then slap on the top bun.
- Time to Eat:
- Cut the sandwich in half for easier handling. Pair with sweet potato fries or a fresh salad for a filling meal you’ll love.
The honey mustard sauce takes simple ingredients and makes them burst with flavor. It reminds me of summer barbecues where smoky grilled food meets fresh garden picks for meals shared with loved ones.
Keeping It Fresh
Keep leftover chicken and sauce in separate airtight containers in the fridge for up to three days. When ready to eat again, toast the buns and warm the chicken gently so it doesn’t dry out.
Switch It Up
Use turkey bacon or skip bacon for a leaner meal. Swiss or pepper jack cheeses are great options instead of cheddar. If you have lime, swap it for lemon juice for a zestier marinade.
Serving Suggestions
Try adding avocado slices for creaminess or pickled red onions for a tangy crunch. Serve with coleslaw or a light cucumber salad for a fresh touch.
This sandwich is just right for a quick meal that feels like a treat. Every bite balances flavors that satisfy and comfort.
Frequently Asked Cooking Questions
- → How long should I marinate the chicken for best flavor?
At least 15 minutes works to soak up the seasoning. For even richer taste, leave it in the fridge for up to 4 hours.
- → What is the ideal grilling time for the chicken breasts?
Cook chicken breasts about 6 to 7 minutes on each side over medium-high heat until they hit 165°F (75°C) inside.
- → Can I substitute the bacon with a healthier option?
Definitely try turkey bacon or skip bacon totally if you want to cut fat, but still keep some good flavor.
- → How is the honey-mustard sauce prepared?
Just stir together mayo, Dijon mustard, and honey until smooth for a sauce that’s both tangy and sweet, perfect with the chicken and bacon.
- → What sides pair well with this sandwich?
Try sweet potato fries, a fresh crisp salad, or some steamed veggies to round out the meal.