Craving that delicious grilled chicken from your favorite Subway sandwich? You’re not alone! Many people love the taste but often wonder how to recreate it at home. Imagine biting into a juicy, flavorful chicken breast that rivals your go-to sub.
Key Takeaways
- Ingredients Matter: Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts and a flavorful marinade made from olive oil, lemon juice, and spices to replicate Subway’s grilled chicken taste.
- Marinating Time: Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for deeper flavor absorption.
- Proper Grilling Techniques: Preheat your grill, oil the grate to prevent sticking, and monitor the cooking time for evenly grilled chicken (6-7 minutes per side).
- Resting is Key: Let the grilled chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing to retain its juices and enhance flavor.
- Creative Toppings: Customize your sandwich with fresh toppings like lettuce, tomato, and cheese, and consider variations like spicy or BBQ chicken for added flavors.
- Serving Suggestions: Pair your sandwich with classic sides like chips, salad, or fries for a complete meal experience.
Ingredients Needed
For a successful Subway grilled chicken replica, gather these essential ingredients to ensure vibrant flavors and a satisfying meal.
Chicken Breast
- Chicken breasts: Aim for two boneless, skinless chicken breasts, roughly 6-8 ounces each. This size ensures even cooking and ample meat for your sandwich.
Marinade Ingredients
- Olive oil: Use about 2 tablespoons. This fat helps to keep the chicken moist during grilling.
- Lemon juice: Add 2 tablespoons for brightness and acidity, enhancing flavor.
- Garlic powder: Incorporate 1 teaspoon for a rich, savory element.
- Paprika: Use 1 teaspoon for a hint of smokiness.
- Italian seasoning: Add 1 teaspoon for a blend of herbs like oregano and basil, boosting aromatic flavors.
- Salt and pepper: Include ½ teaspoon of salt and ¼ teaspoon of pepper for basic seasoning.
- Fresh lettuce: Use 1-2 leaves for crunch.
- Tomato slices: Add a few slices for juiciness and sweetness.
- Red onion: Include a few rings for sharpness.
- Swiss or provolone cheese: Use 1-2 slices, melting slightly on the hot chicken for a rich texture.
- Mayonnaise or a preferred sauce: Consider 1 tablespoon to bring everything together, enhancing moisture and flavor.
Gather these ingredients to recreate the beloved Subway grilled chicken in your own kitchen.
Preparation Steps
To create delicious Subway-style grilled chicken, follow these preparation steps closely for best results.
Marinating the Chicken
- Combine ingredients. Mix ¼ cup of olive oil, 2 tablespoons of lemon juice, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of paprika, 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning, and salt and pepper in a bowl.
- Prepare the chicken. Place two boneless, skinless chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish.
- Pour the marinade over the chicken. Ensure the chicken is evenly coated by gently massaging the bag or stirring the chicken in the dish.
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. For deeper flavor, marinate for up to 4 hours.
Grilling the Chicken
- Preheat the grill. Heat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
- Remove the chicken from the marinade. Let excess marinade drip off; discard the leftover marinade.
- Grill the chicken. Place the chicken on the grill and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Let it rest. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
- Slice the grilled chicken. Cut the chicken into strips or portions based on your preference.
- Prepare the bread. Choose your favorite bread, like a hoagie or a sub roll, and slice it open.
- Add fresh toppings. Layer fresh lettuce, tomato slices, red onion, and cheese of your choice on the bottom half of the bread.
- Place the chicken on top. Add the grilled chicken slices, then spread mayonnaise or your preferred sauce.
- Finish the sandwich. Top with the other half of the bread and press down slightly to compact the filling before serving.
Tips for Perfecting the Recipe
Follow these tips to enhance your Subway grilled chicken experience. Focus on quality ingredients and proper techniques for the best results.
Choosing the Right Chicken
Select high-quality chicken breasts for optimal flavor. Look for boneless, skinless pieces with a bright pink color. Fresh chicken ensures a juicy texture. Consider organic or free-range varieties for added taste. If you’re feeding a crowd, you can easily scale up the recipe by using additional chicken breasts.
Grilling Techniques
Use the following techniques for perfectly grilled chicken:
- Preheat the Grill: Ensure that your grill reaches a consistent medium-high heat before placing the chicken on it. This step creates a nice sear.
- Oil the Grate: Lightly grease the grill grates to prevent sticking. This action aids in achieving those attractive grill marks.
- Don’t Flip Too Soon: Wait until the chicken naturally releases from the grill before flipping it. This prevents tearing.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: Check for an internal temperature of 165°F for safely cooked chicken. This ensures moist, tender meat.
- Let It Rest: Rest the chicken for a couple of minutes after grilling. This allows the juices to redistribute, enhancing flavor and juiciness.
Apply these tips consistently to enjoy restaurant-quality grilled chicken at home.
Serving Suggestions
Enjoying your homemade Subway grilled chicken doesn’t stop at the chicken itself. Enhance your experience with some great sides and sandwich variations.
Pairing with Sides
Pair your grilled chicken sandwich with classic sides to create a complete meal. Here are some ideas:
- Chips: Opt for classic potato chips or pita chips for a crunchy contrast.
- Salad: A fresh green salad with cucumbers and cherry tomatoes adds a refreshing touch.
- Vegetables: Serve raw veggies like carrots and celery with hummus for a healthy bite.
- Fries: Sweet potato fries or traditional French fries provide a satisfying side that complements the sandwich perfectly.
Sandwich Variations
Get creative with your sandwich by trying different ingredients and flavors. Here are a few variations to consider:
- Spicy Grilled Chicken: Add jalapeños or a spicy mayo for an extra kick.
- Mediterranean Style: Incorporate feta cheese, olives, and a drizzle of tzatziki sauce.
- BBQ Chicken: Brush some barbecue sauce on the chicken during grilling and top with coleslaw.
- Avocado Delight: Layer slices of avocado and a sprinkle of lime juice for a creamy texture.
Conclusion
Now that you know how to make Subway-style grilled chicken at home you can enjoy that delicious flavor anytime you want. With the right marinade and grilling techniques you’ll create juicy chicken that’ll impress your family and friends.
Don’t forget to get creative with your toppings and side dishes to make each meal unique. Whether you stick to the classic flavors or try something new like a spicy twist or a Mediterranean flair your homemade sandwiches are sure to be a hit.
So fire up that grill and start crafting your perfect Subway grilled chicken sandwich today. Happy cooking!
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I make grilled chicken like Subway at home?
To recreate Subway’s grilled chicken, marinate two boneless, skinless chicken breasts in olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper for at least 30 minutes. Preheat your grill to medium-high, cook the chicken until it reaches 165°F, and let it rest for juiciness before slicing.
What toppings should I add to my grilled chicken sandwich?
Enhance your grilled chicken sandwich with fresh toppings like lettuce, tomato slices, red onion, Swiss or provolone cheese, and your favorite sauce or mayonnaise. These toppings add flavor and texture to your meal.
What sides pair well with grilled chicken sandwiches?
Grilled chicken sandwiches go well with classic sides like potato chips, fresh salads, raw vegetables with hummus, or fries. These sides complement the flavors and make for a complete meal.
Can I customize the grilled chicken recipe?
Absolutely! You can customize the recipe with variations such as adding spicy jalapeños, Mediterranean feta and tzatziki, BBQ sauce with coleslaw, or an avocado and lime topping. Feel free to get creative to suit your taste!
What type of chicken is best for grilling?
For the best flavor, choose high-quality chicken breasts, preferably organic or free-range. This type of chicken tends to be juicier and more flavorful, making your grilled chicken sandwich even better.