Grilled Chicken Sandwich with Hot Honey and Bacon

Introduction to the Grilled Chicken Sandwich with Hot Honey and Bacon

Ree Drummond’s Grilled Chicken Sandwich with Hot Honey and Bacon is a crowd-pleasing recipe that combines the savory flavors of grilled chicken with the sweetness of hot honey and the smokiness of crispy bacon. This dish is perfect for both lunch and dinner, offering a delightful mix of flavors and textures that will leave you wanting more.

Ingredients for the Recipe

To make this recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:
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4 skinless, boneless chicken breasts

(6 to 8 ounces each)
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2/3 cup honey

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2/3 cup country-style Dijon mustard

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1 teaspoon paprika

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Salt and pepper

, to taste
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6 slices of bacon

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4 ciabatta rolls

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Spicy mustard sauce

(for marinade and spread)
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Mayonnaise

(for the spread)
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Fresh parsley or thyme

, for garnish

Instructions for Preparing the Sandwich

1. Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, whisk together honey, Dijon mustard, and paprika. Add the chicken breasts and marinate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
2. Cook the Bacon: Grill or pan-fry the bacon until crispy. Set aside.
3. Grill the Chicken: Preheat a grill or grill pan. Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off. Grill the chicken until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
4. Prepare the Spicy Mustard Spread: Mix the remaining marinade with mayonnaise to create a creamy spread.
5. Assemble the Sandwich: Slice the grilled chicken breasts in half. Spread the spicy mustard spread on ciabatta rolls, followed by a chicken breast half, a few slices of bacon, and garnished with fresh parsley or thyme.

Key Features of the Recipe

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Flavor Profile:

This sandwich combines the richness of bacon with the sweetness of hot honey and the tanginess of spicy mustard, creating a complex and satisfying flavor profile.
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Ease of Preparation:

The recipe is straightforward and requires minimal ingredients, making it a great option for a quick and delicious meal.
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Versatility:

You can customize the sandwich by using different types of bread or adding additional toppings like avocado or cheese.

Benefits of the Recipe

This recipe offers several benefits:
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Unique Taste Experience:

The combination of grilled chicken, hot honey, and crispy bacon provides a unique and exciting taste experience.
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Quick Meal Option:

It is ideal for busy days when you need a meal that can be prepared quickly without sacrificing flavor.
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Crowd-Pleaser:

The sandwich is a crowd-pleaser, making it perfect for family gatherings or casual events.

Variations and Ideas

If you want to experiment with this recipe, consider the following variations:
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Add Avocado:

Slice an avocado and place it on top of the chicken for added creaminess.
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Use Different Cheeses:

Sprinkle shredded cheddar or crumbled feta cheese for extra flavor and texture.
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Try Different Spreads:

Instead of using just spicy mustard, try mixing it with mayonnaise or sour cream for a different consistency.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What is the best way to marinate the chicken?

A: Marinate the chicken in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to penetrate deeply.

Q: Can I use different types of honey?

A: Yes, you can experiment with different types of honey, such as clover or manuka, to change the flavor profile slightly.

Q: How do I ensure the bacon stays crispy?

A: To keep the bacon crispy, cook it until it is very crunchy before assembling the sandwich. You can also reheat it briefly in the oven if needed.

Q: Can I prepare any components ahead of time?

A: Yes, you can prepare the spicy mustard sauce and cook the bacon ahead of time. Store them in the refrigerator until ready to assemble the sandwiches.