Grilled Chicken Sandwiches Recipe with Pimiento Cheese and Pickles

Introduction to Grilled Chicken Sandwich Recipe

If you’re craving a sandwich that’s both flavorful and satisfying, a Grilled Chicken Sandwich might be exactly what you need. There’s something undeniably comforting about a grilled chicken sandwich, especially when it’s loaded with crispy pickle chips, fresh lettuce, and a rich, creamy layer of pimiento cheese. With the perfect balance of textures—juicy, tender chicken, crunchy veggies, and a buttery brioche bun—it’s a meal you’ll want to enjoy again and again.

The beauty of the grilled chicken sandwich lies in its simplicity. Grilled chicken breast cutlets, marinated in tangy dill pickle brine, become a delectable filling, while the additional toppings give this sandwich its signature bite. A soft, lightly toasted brioche bun serves as the foundation, supporting a mouthwatering combination of flavors that make every bite irresistible.

Whether you’re grilling in the backyard, preparing a quick weeknight dinner, or crafting a sandwich to impress guests, this recipe provides a satisfying and customizable solution. You can even swap out the pimiento cheese for something else—like your favorite spicy mayo or melted cheese—depending on what you prefer. It’s the kind of sandwich that’s always a hit, no matter the occasion.

If you’re wondering how to elevate your grilled chicken sandwiches to the next level, check out this Bon Appétit guide on sandwich perfection and Serious Eats’ tips on grilling chicken for pro tips and additional variations.

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Basic Recipe: Ingredients and Instructions

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Steps to Make It:

Brine the Chicken
Place the chicken cutlets into a zip-top bag or shallow bowl and pour in the dill pickle brine. Seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, though a couple of hours will enhance the flavor. The brine helps tenderize the chicken and infuses it with a tangy kick that will shine through when grilled.

Step 3

Preheat the Grill
Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat (around 400°F). Clean and oil the grates lightly to prevent sticking. The grill should be hot but not too smoky, allowing the chicken to cook through without charring too quickly.

Step 4

Prepare the Chicken
After the chicken has finished marinating, remove it from the brine and pat it dry with paper towels. This ensures that the chicken will sear properly on the grill and won’t steam. Drizzle the chicken with olive oil, then season both sides generously with kosher salt, garlic powder, and black pepper.

Step 5

Grill the Chicken
Grill the chicken cutlets for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F. You want the outside to develop nice grill marks while the inside remains juicy. The key is to avoid overcooking, so keep an eye on the temperature.

Step 6

Toast the Buns
Lightly toast your brioche buns on the grill. Place them cut side down for about 30 seconds until golden brown. Toasting adds an extra layer of flavor and texture, preventing the buns from getting soggy once the sandwich is assembled.

Step 7

Assemble the Sandwich
To assemble, start by spreading a generous layer of pimiento cheese on the bottom bun. Place a grilled chicken cutlet on top, followed by a slice of tomato, a couple of crisp lettuce leaves, and 3 dill pickle chips. Top with the other half of the toasted brioche bun.

Step 8

Serve and Enjoy
Serve your sandwich immediately with a side of fries, a crisp salad, or a pickle spear. The pimiento cheese adds a creamy, savory element that pairs perfectly with the tangy pickles and juicy chicken.

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Advanced Techniques for Grilled Chicken Sandwiches

Pickle Brine for Extra Tenderness and Flavor

For the ultimate flavor infusion, let your chicken marinate in the pickle brine for at least 1-2 hours. The vinegar in the brine not only tenderizes the chicken but also imparts a subtle tang that complements the richness of the grilled meat. If you don’t have pickle brine, you can create your own brine by mixing water, vinegar, salt, sugar, and a few peppercorns. This is a game-changing technique for grilled chicken that’s juicy, flavorful, and tender every time.

Make Your Own Pimiento Cheese

While store-bought pimiento cheese is convenient, making your own can elevate the sandwich to new heights. Mix sharp cheddar cheese with mayonnaise, diced pimientos, and a bit of hot sauce or paprika for a spicy kick. Chill the mixture before spreading it on the buns. This homemade spread adds richness and extra depth of flavor that you won’t get from the store version.

Charcoal Grill vs. Gas Grill

While a gas grill provides convenience, a charcoal grill adds an extra layer of smoky flavor that’s perfect for a grilled chicken sandwich. The key is controlling the heat and letting the chicken cook evenly, using indirect heat if necessary. With charcoal, you can experiment with different wood chips (like hickory or applewood) to infuse the chicken with a subtle smokiness.

Grilled Vegetables as Toppings

If you’re looking to add more depth to your sandwich, consider grilling vegetables like bell peppers, red onions, or even zucchini. These vegetables soften on the grill and develop a smoky flavor that pairs wonderfully with the chicken and cheese. Adding grilled vegetables gives the sandwich an earthy, savory component.

Use a Meat Thermometer

To ensure perfectly cooked chicken every time, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. Chicken should always reach 165°F to be safe to eat and remain juicy. This simple tool takes the guesswork out of grilling and ensures your sandwich is consistently delicious.

Keep Your Chicken Resting

Once the chicken is off the grill, let it rest for about 5 minutes before assembling the sandwich. Resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring each bite is moist and flavorful.

Toasting the Buns to Perfection

The trick to perfect buns is to toast them lightly on the grill just before serving. This adds texture and flavor while preventing the sandwich from getting soggy due to the juicy chicken and cheese. Be sure to toast just until the buns are golden brown, not charred.

See more advanced recipes, at Mobolux.

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Storage, Shelf Life, and Maintenance Tips

How to Store Cooked Chicken

If you have leftover grilled chicken, you can store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat the chicken in the microwave or oven, ensuring that it reaches 165°F again for safe consumption.

Freezing Leftover Chicken

Grilled chicken can be frozen for up to 2 months. Wrap the chicken tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in a freezer-safe bag. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Storing Pimiento Cheese

Leftover pimiento cheese can be stored in a sealed container in the fridge for 7–10 days. It may thicken as it sits, so stir in a little extra mayonnaise or a splash of milk to loosen it before use.

How to Keep Your Sandwich from Getting Soggy

To prevent the sandwich from getting soggy, store your sandwich components separately. If you’re packing this for lunch, place the grilled chicken in one container and the pimiento cheese, pickles, and veggies in another. Assemble the sandwich just before eating.

Make-Ahead Chicken for Quick Meals

You can prep the chicken ahead of time by marinating and grilling it earlier in the week. Store the grilled chicken in the fridge and use it to make sandwiches throughout the week. It’s a great way to save time while still enjoying a delicious homemade meal.

Keeping the Buns Fresh

If you have leftover brioche buns, store them in an airtight bag to prevent them from becoming stale. They can be toasted again the next day for use in other sandwiches or meals.

Reheating Tips

To preserve the crispy texture of the grilled chicken, reheat it in the oven or an air fryer. Reheat the buns separately, either in the toaster or oven, to keep everything fresh and crispy.

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Dietary Adaptations and Substitutions

Gluten-Free Version

For a gluten-free version, swap the brioche buns for gluten-free hamburger buns. Make sure the pimiento cheese and other ingredients are also gluten-free. Alternatively, you can serve the chicken and toppings in a lettuce wrap for a low-carb option.

Dairy-Free Option

If you’re dairy-free, replace the pimiento cheese with a dairy-free cheese spread or a vegan mayo with spices for added flavor. Some vegan cheese brands make pimiento cheese alternatives that could work perfectly in this sandwich.

Low-Carb or Keto-Friendly

For those following a keto or low-carb diet, skip the brioche bun and use a lettuce wrap or low-carb bread. Substitute the pimiento cheese with a dairy-based spread that is lower in carbs, or skip

the cheese entirely if you prefer a lighter version.

Vegetarian Alternative

For a vegetarian sandwich, replace the grilled chicken with a grilled portobello mushroom cap or a thick slice of grilled eggplant. These vegetables have a similar meaty texture and can absorb the pickle brine for a tangy, savory bite.

Low-Sodium Adjustments

To reduce sodium, use low-sodium pickles and brine, and skip the additional salt when seasoning the chicken. You can also opt for a homemade pimiento cheese made with reduced-sodium cheese and mayo.

Paleo-Friendly

For a paleo-friendly version, skip the buns and cheese. Serve the grilled chicken on a bed of mixed greens, topped with tomatoes, pickles, and a simple homemade paleo mayo or avocado spread for a creamy addition.

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FAQs About Grilled Chicken Sandwiches

Can I use frozen chicken breasts?

Yes, but be sure to thaw the chicken fully before marinating and grilling. Frozen chicken will not grill as evenly, and you’ll lose some of the tenderness if it’s not thawed properly.

Can I substitute another type of cheese?

Absolutely! If pimiento cheese isn’t your favorite, try using sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack cheese for a different flavor profile.

How can I make this sandwich spicier?

Add jalapeños, spicy mustard, or a drizzle of your favorite hot sauce. You can also mix hot sauce into the pimiento cheese for an added kick.

Can I make this ahead of time for meal prep?

Yes! Grill the chicken in advance, store it in the fridge, and assemble the sandwiches when you’re ready to eat. You can also make the pimiento cheese ahead of time.

What type of grill is best for this recipe?

A gas grill is perfect for convenience, but a charcoal grill adds a deeper, smoky flavor to the chicken. Either works well for this recipe!

How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?

Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F. If you don’t have one, cut into the thickest part of the chicken and ensure it’s no longer pink inside.

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Conclusion & Final Thoughts

The grilled chicken sandwich is a timeless classic, offering endless possibilities for customization while always delivering on flavor. Whether you’re making it for a casual lunch or impressing guests at a BBQ, it’s an ideal choice for a crowd-pleasing meal. With juicy chicken, crisp veggies, and creamy cheese, this sandwich provides the perfect balance of textures and tastes.

So fire up the grill, grab your brioche buns, and get ready for a meal that’s sure to become a favorite. The best part? You can make it your own, tweaking the ingredients and toppings to suit your tastes. No matter how you make it, this grilled chicken sandwich will be a hit!