Chicken BLT with Pimento Cheese

Introduction to the Chicken BLT with Pimento Cheese

The BLT sandwich, a classic favorite, has been a staple in many lunchboxes and restaurants for decades. However, sometimes it’s nice to mix things up and add some excitement to a well-known dish. Enter the Chicken BLT with Pimento Cheese, a creative twist that combines the rich flavors of grilled chicken with the creamy, smoky essence of pimento cheese. This recipe, inspired by The Pioneer Woman, promises to elevate your sandwich game and leave you craving more.

## Ingredients
For this delectable creation, you will need the following ingredients:
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Bacon

: 12 slices
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Pimientos

: 1 (4-ounce) jar, drained
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Olive Oil

: 1/2 cup
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Adobo Sauce

: 1 tablespoon + 2 teaspoons
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Kosher Salt

: 1 teaspoon
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Black Pepper

: 3/4 teaspoon
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Chicken

: 6 thin cutlets (about 1 1/4 pounds)
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Cheddar Cheese

: 1 cup grated
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Monterey Jack Cheese

: 1 cup grated
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Cream Cheese

: 2 ounces, softened
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Mayonnaise

: 1/4 cup
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Dijon Mustard

: 1 1/2 teaspoons
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White Bread

: 12 slices
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Beefsteak Tomatoes

: 2, sliced
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Iceberg Lettuce

: 1/2 head, shredded

## Instructions
To prepare this mouthwatering sandwich, follow these steps:
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Step 1: Cook the Bacon

– Preheat your oven to 375°F. Place the bacon slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and set on a rack. Bake until crispy, flipping halfway through, about 20 minutes.

–

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

– In a large bowl, whisk together the pimiento liquid, olive oil, 1 tablespoon adobo sauce, salt, and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper. Add the chicken cutlets and marinate while preparing the pimento cheese.

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Step 3: Prepare the Pimento Cheese

– In a separate bowl, combine the cheddar, Monterey Jack, and cream cheese. Mix until the cream cheese is fully incorporated. Add the mayonnaise, remaining 2 teaspoons adobo sauce, mustard, and the remaining 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Stir in the diced pimientos.

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Step 4: Grill the Chicken

– Remove the chicken from the marinade. Grill over medium-high heat for 2 to 3 minutes per side, or until marked.

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Step 5: Assemble the Sandwich

– Spread pimento cheese on half of the bread slices and mayonnaise on the other half. Add sliced tomatoes and bacon to the pimento cheese side. Top with a handful of lettuce and a chicken cutlet. Sandwich the two halves together.

## Variations and Tips
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Customize with Fresh Herbs

: Add some chopped fresh herbs like parsley or dill to the pimento cheese for extra flavor.
–

Use Different Cheeses

: Experiment with other cheeses like Gruyère or Gouda for a different taste profile.
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Make Ahead

: Prepare the components ahead of time and assemble just before serving to maintain freshness and texture.

## FAQs

Q: Can I use regular chicken breasts instead of thin cutlets?

A: Yes, you can use regular chicken breasts, but you may need to adjust the cooking time and possibly slice them thinner to ensure even cooking.

Q: How long can I store pimento cheese in the fridge?

A: Pimento cheese can be stored in the fridge for up to a week. It’s best to let it come to room temperature before serving for optimal flavor.

Q: Can I make this recipe without adobo sauce?

A: While adobo sauce adds a smoky flavor, you can omit it or substitute it with another spicy sauce if desired.

Conclusion

This Chicken BLT with Pimento Cheese is a delightful twist on a classic, making it perfect for both casual gatherings and special occasions. With its blend of crispy bacon, grilled chicken, and creamy pimento cheese, it’s sure to become a favorite among family and friends.