We’re creating a truly satisfying sandwich that brings together the best of fresh garden flavors with perfectly grilled chicken. This garlic butter lettuce, tomato, and grilled chicken sandwich is a wonderful combination of crispy, buttery sourdough bread, tender seasoned chicken, and fresh, crisp vegetables. It’s the kind of sandwich that makes lunch feel like a special occasion.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes | Calories: 490 kcal per sandwich
Serves: 2 generous sandwiches
What You’ll Need
For the Sandwich:
- 4 slices thick-cut sourdough bread
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 large vine-ripened tomatoes, sliced
- 4 large romaine or butter lettuce leaves
For the Garlic Butter:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
For the Chicken Seasoning:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
For the Creamy Spread:
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing Your Workspace
Step 1: First, let’s get your grill pan or outdoor grill warming up over medium-high heat. If you’re using an outdoor grill, this is a perfect time to enjoy the fresh air while it heats up.
Getting the Chicken Ready
Step 2: Take your chicken breasts and place them on a clean cutting board. Using a sharp knife, carefully slice each breast horizontally (like you’re butterflying them) to create four thinner cutlets. This helps them cook more evenly and quickly – much more manageable!
Step 3: Drizzle the olive oil over both sides of each chicken cutlet, then gently rub it in with your hands. Sprinkle both sides with paprika, salt, black pepper, and the chili flakes if you like a little warmth. Give each piece a gentle pat to help the seasonings stick.
Grilling the Perfect Chicken
Step 4: Place the seasoned chicken on your hot grill and cook for 3-4 minutes on the first side without moving it – this creates those beautiful grill marks we all love. Flip carefully and cook for another 3-4 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked through and has a nice golden char. The internal temperature should reach 165°F if you have a meat thermometer. Set the cooked chicken aside on a clean plate.
Making the Fragrant Garlic Butter
Step 5: In a small saucepan over low heat, gently melt your butter. Add the minced garlic and fresh parsley, stirring slowly for about a minute until fragrant. Be careful not to let the garlic brown – we want it golden and aromatic. Using a pastry brush or spoon, generously coat both sides of each bread slice with this heavenly garlic butter.
Creating Golden, Crispy Toast
Step 6: Heat a clean skillet over medium heat. Place your buttered bread slices in the skillet and toast them until they’re golden brown and crispy on both sides, about 2-3 minutes per side. The smell will be absolutely wonderful!
Making the Creamy Spread
Step 7: In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice. Stir until everything is smooth and well blended. This adds a lovely tangy richness to complement all the other flavors.
Bringing It All Together
Step 8: Now for the fun part – assembling your masterpiece! Spread the creamy mayo mixture on all four slices of your golden toast. On two slices, layer the grilled chicken, followed by the fresh lettuce leaves, and then the sliced tomatoes.
Step 9: Top with the remaining bread slices, mayo-side down. Gently press the sandwich together to help everything stay in place, then slice diagonally if you’d like – it makes for a beautiful presentation!
Serving Suggestions
These sandwiches are absolutely perfect served warm, right after assembly. They pair beautifully with crispy kettle chips, fresh fruit, or a simple side salad. The combination of warm, garlicky bread with cool, fresh vegetables is truly delightful.
Why This Recipe Shines
The secret to this sandwich’s success is the balance of textures and flavors – the crispy, buttery sourdough provides the perfect foundation, while the seasoned grilled chicken adds protein and substance. The fresh lettuce and tomatoes bring a garden-fresh crispness that makes every bite satisfying and refreshing.
Helpful Kitchen Tips
- Choose tomatoes that are firm but ripe for the best flavor and to prevent soggy sandwiches
- Let your chicken rest for a few minutes after grilling – this helps keep it juicy
- If you don’t have a grill, a regular skillet works perfectly for cooking the chicken
- Fresh herbs in the garlic butter make all the difference – don’t skip the parsley!
Perfect Timing
This sandwich is proof that simple, fresh ingredients treated with care can create something truly special. Enjoy every delicious bite with your loved ones!
