Chicken and bacon pan-fried sandwiches

Chicken and bacon pan-fried sandwiches combine crispy bacon, shredded chicken, and melted cheddar with garlic-lemon mayonnaise, served on toasted bread. This hearty recipe is simple and perfect for lunch or a quick dinner.

21 Nov 2025
Cook time 16 min
Prep time 10 min

Ingredients:

8 slices white bread
8 bacon strips
1 tsp salted butter
8 tbsp mayonnaise salad dressing
2 garlic cloves
2 tbsp lemon juice
1 tbsp chives
1 cup chicken breasts
8 oz cheddar cheese

Chicken and bacon pan-fried sandwiches are a delightful and savory treat, perfect for lunch or a quick dinner. Combining the rich flavors of crispy bacon, tender chicken, melted cheddar cheese, and a zesty garlic-lemon mayonnaise, this recipe offers a satisfying and hearty meal that is simple and quick to prepare.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Garlic Mayo:
- In a small bowl, mix 8 tablespoons of mayonnaise salad dressing with the minced garlic, lemon juice, and finely chopped chives. Stir until well combined. Set it aside for later use.

2. Cook the Bacon:
- Place a large skillet or frying pan over medium heat. Once hot, add the bacon strips and cook until they are crispy, turning as needed, about 5-7 minutes.
- Remove the bacon from the pan and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease.

3. Shred the Chicken:
- If starting with raw chicken breasts, cook them first by boiling or poaching until fully cooked, about 15 minutes. Allow the chicken to cool slightly, then shred it using two forks. If using pre-cooked chicken, simply shred it.

4. Assemble the Sandwiches:
- Lay out the bread slices on a clean surface. Spread the garlic mayo evenly on one side of each slice.
- On 4 of the bread slices, place an equal amount of shredded chicken.
- Add 2 strips of bacon on top of the chicken on each sandwich.
- Arrange slices of cheddar cheese over the bacon. The cheese should cover the bacon evenly.
- Top with the remaining slices of bread, garlic mayo side down.

5. Pan-Fry the Sandwiches:
- In the same skillet or a clean one, melt the salted butter over medium heat.
- Place the assembled sandwiches into the skillet. Cook them for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted. Press gently with a spatula for even browning.
- If your skillet is not large enough to fit all the sandwiches at once, cook them in batches, adding more butter as needed.

6. Serve:
- Remove the sandwiches from the skillet.
- Cut each sandwich in half if desired, and serve immediately while hot and melty.

By following these simple steps and tips, you can create delicious chicken and bacon pan-fried sandwiches that are sure to satisfy your taste buds. Perfect for any meal occasion, these sandwiches are not only easy to make but also packed with incredible flavors and textures. Enjoy every bite of this delightful dish!

Chicken and bacon pan-fried sandwiches FAQ:

What type of bread works best for these sandwiches?

White bread is used in the recipe, but you can substitute with whole wheat, sourdough, or any other type of bread you prefer. Just ensure it can hold the ingredients well.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

Chicken breasts should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) when cooked. If boiling or poaching, cook for about 15 minutes, ensuring it is no longer pink and the juices run clear.

Can I make the garlic-lemon mayo ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the garlic-lemon mayo up to a day in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator until you're ready to assemble the sandwiches.

How should I store leftover sandwiches?

Store leftover sandwiches in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet or air fryer for best results to maintain crispiness.

What can I use instead of cheddar cheese?

You can substitute cheddar cheese with other cheeses like Monterey Jack, Swiss, or provolone. Choose a cheese that melts well to maintain the sandwich's desired texture.

Tips:

- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken breasts in a bit of olive oil, salt, and pepper before cooking.

- Use a sharp knife to finely chop the garlic and chives for the mayonnaise dressing to blend better.

- For a healthier option, you can use whole wheat bread instead of white bread.

- Ensure the bacon is cooked until crispy to add a nice crunch to the sandwiches.

- You can add some fresh lettuce or tomato slices for additional flavor and texture.

Nutrition per serving

4 Servings
Calories 560kcal
Protein 33g
Carbohydrates 22g
Fiber 0.86g
Sugar 3.29g
Fat 36g

Chicken and bacon pan-fried sandwiches