Because Lunch Should Be Effortless and Delicious

There’s something iconic about a chicken club sandwich. It’s one of those meals that doesn’t try too hard—but somehow always delivers. Whether you’re packing it for a kid’s lunchbox, enjoying a quiet moment between Zoom calls, or trying to turn “what’s for lunch?” into something that doesn’t involve sad leftovers, this sandwich has you covered.

I’ve made this exact sandwich more times than I can count, and let me tell you—once you try it homemade, there’s no going back to diner versions or plastic-wrapped deli disappointments. With crispy bacon, juicy seasoned chicken, layers of crunchy lettuce, fresh tomato, melty cheese, and just the right swipe of mayo… this chicken club sandwich is the sandwich dreams are made of.

And the best part? It’s totally doable in about 35 minutes. Yep, even if you’re juggling a toddler on your hip or sneaking it in between soccer drop-offs.

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Club Sandwich

Let’s be real—some days, we just need something satisfying that doesn’t leave us elbow-deep in dishes or scratching our heads over ingredient substitutions. Here’s why this chicken club sandwich recipe is about to become your new favorite:

• Quick & Minimal Fuss – Ready in just over half an hour, and half of that is oven time.
• Budget-Friendly – Four sandwiches for under $17 total? Yes please.
• Family-Approved – Even picky eaters will go for the crispy bacon and melty cheese combo.
• Customizable – Swap chicken for turkey, change the bread, add avocado—make it yours.

For me, it started as a “use-what-we’ve-got” kind of lunch on a lazy Sunday. But after seeing my daughter steal the last bite off my plate (again), I realized this one was a keeper.

Ingredients You’ll Need for the Perfect Club Sandwich

This recipe strikes that sweet spot: elevated enough to feel like a treat, simple enough to throw together without running to three grocery stores. Here’s what you’ll need to make 4 hearty sandwiches:

• 9 slices bacon – Because everything’s better with bacon, right?
• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.3lb) – Or swap in turkey if you’re feeling traditional.
• ¾ tsp salt + ½ tsp black pepper + ½ tsp garlic powder – Just the right flavor combo for the chicken.
• 2 Tbsp olive oil – For a golden sear on your chicken.
• 12 slices white sandwich bread – Toasted, of course.
• 2 large tomatoes – Juicy, sliced, and full of summer flavor.
• 8 leaves iceberg or romaine lettuce – For that satisfying crunch.
• 8 slices colby-jack cheese – Melty and mild, a perfect pairing.
• ½ cup mayonnaise – To bring it all together.

Optional but encouraged: chips and dill pickles on the side, because some traditions are worth keeping.

Step-by-Step: How to Make a Chicken Club Sandwich

1. Bake That Bacon

Start by preheating your oven to 400ºF. Line a baking sheet with foil and place a wire rack on top. Lay out your bacon slices and bake for about 25 minutes—or until they hit your perfect level of crispy. Set them on a paper towel-lined plate and try not to nibble too many pieces before they hit the sandwich.

Grace Tip: Oven-baked bacon = less mess, more crunch. Trust me on this.

2. Cook the Chicken Like a Pro

While the bacon’s baking, it’s chicken time. Fillet each chicken breast into thinner cutlets—this helps them cook faster and more evenly. Place them under plastic wrap and gently pound to even thickness (use a rolling pin or meat mallet).

Season both sides with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.

Heat up a skillet with olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook for about 4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Let it rest before slicing it into strips—this keeps all that juicy flavor locked in.

Mom Hack: Double the chicken and save half for salads or wraps later in the week. Cook once, eat twice!

3. Prep the Fresh Stuff

While the chicken rests and the bacon finishes crisping, get your sandwich assembly line ready:

• Toast the bread
• Slice the tomatoes
• Wash and dry the lettuce
• Set out your cheese slices

Having everything prepped and ready makes assembly smooth and satisfying. Honestly, there’s something so soothing about lining it all up like a lunchtime masterpiece.

Assembling the Ultimate Chicken Club Sandwich

This is where the magic happens. With your ingredients cooked, prepped, and ready, it’s time to stack up some serious sandwich greatness. Club sandwiches are all about layers, and while it might look fancy, it’s actually really easy to assemble.

4. Build Your Chicken Club Sandwich Like a Pro

Start with three slices of toasted bread per sandwich. Yep, three. That middle slice is what makes a club sandwich a “club” (more on that in the FAQs below!).

Here’s how to layer it:

1. Bottom Slice: Spread a thin layer of mayo.
   • Add a layer of lettuce.
   • Top with tomato slices.
   • Add a few strips of sliced chicken.
2. Middle Slice (also with mayo):
   • Add a slice of cheese.
   • Pile on crispy bacon pieces.
   • Maybe sneak in another bit of chicken if you’re feeling generous.
3. Top Slice: Another swipe of mayo seals the deal.

Press down gently, then cut the sandwich in half diagonally (because somehow that just makes it taste better). Add a toothpick in each half to hold it together if you like that classic deli-style vibe.

Grace’s Tip: Don’t overstuff each layer. A little bit of everything goes a long way in getting the perfect bite every time. And yes—you can add avocado if you’re feeling extra!

Chicken Club Sandwich FAQs (You Asked, We Answered)

We get it—club sandwiches seem simple, but they come with some questions. Let’s tackle a few of the most common ones, with a splash of friendly advice and some chicken club sandwich wisdom.

What goes in a chicken club sandwich?

A chicken club sandwich usually includes grilled or pan-seared chicken, crispy bacon, lettuce, tomato, cheese, mayo, and toasted sandwich bread. Some versions include turkey or a fried egg—but the basics are all about the layered combo of savory, crunchy, and creamy.

What makes a club sandwich a club sandwich?

The secret is in the structure. A traditional club sandwich has three slices of bread and is stacked in two layers. It usually features meat (chicken or turkey), bacon, lettuce, tomato, and mayo, with optional cheese. That third slice of bread in the middle? That’s the “club” calling card.

What’s the difference between a chicken sandwich and a chicken club sandwich?

A regular chicken sandwich is usually one piece of meat on a bun or bread with minimal toppings. A chicken club is more elaborate—it has bacon, lettuce, tomato, cheese, and is typically stacked with three slices of toasted bread and sliced diagonally. It’s basically the party version of a chicken sandwich.

What do you put in club sandwiches?

Classic club sandwich fillings include:

• Meat: Chicken, turkey, or ham
• Bacon: For crunch and saltiness
• Lettuce: Crisp iceberg or romaine
• Tomatoes: Sliced fresh and juicy
• Cheese: Colby-jack, cheddar, or Swiss
• Mayonnaise: A must-have for moisture and richness

You can also add:

• Avocado slices
• Fried egg
• Red onion
• Spicy mayo or aioli

Make it your own, always.

Why is it called a Chicken Club?

The term “club” most likely refers to the sandwich’s origin in private social clubs, where it first gained popularity in the early 1900s. Swap in chicken for turkey or ham, and voilà—you’ve got a Chicken Club Sandwich.

What toppings go on a chicken sandwich?

If you’re keeping it simple (not doing the full club), some great toppings include:

• Cheese (Colby-jack, pepper jack, cheddar)
• Lettuce
• Tomato
• Pickles
• Onion
• Avocado
• Bacon
• Sauces: Mayo, honey mustard, BBQ sauce, or ranch

Basically, if it sounds delicious and fits between two slices of bread—it works.

Does a club sandwich have egg?

Not traditionally, but some modern versions (and brunchy twists) do include a fried or hard-boiled egg. If you like a little extra protein, it’s a tasty addition.

What makes a club a club?

Three things: Three slices of bread, layered fillings, and a toothpick or two to hold it all together. It’s all about that layered, high-rise effect that makes the club sandwich more than just your average lunch.

What to eat with a club sandwich?

Oh, the possibilities! Here are a few go-to pairings:

• Crispy potato chips
• Pickle spears
• French fries or sweet potato fries
• Coleslaw
• Pasta salad
• Fresh fruit or side salad

At our house, it’s always kettle chips and a crunchy dill pickle. Old-school, and still the best.

Simple Tips, Fun Twists & Perfect Pairings for Chicken Club Sandwiches

If this Chicken Club Sandwich has earned a place in your weekly lunch rotation (or let’s be honest, dinner too), let’s talk about ways to mix it up without adding more stress to your day.

Smart Tips from Chef Grace’s Kitchen

• Make it ahead: Cook the bacon and chicken the night before and keep them refrigerated. When lunchtime rolls around, all you’ll need to do is toast and layer.
• Double up: This recipe easily scales up for parties or family lunches. Just make a bacon and chicken batch in bulk—assembly line style.
• Kid-friendly version: Skip the third slice of bread and serve it as a double-decker or cut into quarters with fun toothpicks. (Pro tip: let the kids help with stacking!)

“In my house, club sandwiches are a go-to on Sunday afternoons. It’s become a tradition: dad toasts the bread, I prep the fillings, and the kids each ‘build their own.’ They even named their own versions—one’s called the ‘Cheesezilla.’ I’ll let you guess why.”
— Grace

Variations to Try When You Want to Shake It Up

You know I’m all about efficiency and creativity in the kitchen. Once you’ve nailed the classic Chicken Club, try these fun swaps:

• Swap in turkey or ham for a more traditional club.
• Add avocado slices for creaminess (like Layers of Happiness suggests—so good!).
• Use sourdough, multigrain, or even a toasted bagel instead of plain white bread.
• Drizzle with chipotle mayo or honey mustard if you’re craving a flavor boost.
• Go spicy with pepper jack cheese and a dash of hot sauce.

For more ideas on tasty chicken meals, don’t miss our Blackened Chicken Alfredo Pasta or Chicken Salad Sandwiches – 30 Minute Meal for weekday-friendly favorites.

The Perfect Sides for Your Chicken Club Sandwich

Wondering what goes well with this hearty sandwich? Here are some effortless pairings to round out your plate:

• Kettle chips or sweet potato fries
• Dill pickles or pickled onions
• A fresh fruit salad or apple slices
• A light soup or side Caesar salad
• Or, pair with this super easy Sloppy Joe Recipe if you’re feeding a crowd

And if you’re curious how the fast-food version compares, check out this Chick-fil-A Grilled Chicken Club for inspiration (but trust me, homemade wins every time).

Bringing Joy to the Table—One Sandwich at a Time

At the end of the day, this Chicken Club Sandwich isn’t just about the layers of juicy chicken and crispy bacon. It’s about creating something satisfying, comforting, and just a little bit special without turning your kitchen into a war zone.

Whether you’re whipping it up for a family lunch, a weekend treat, or even dinner when the day’s gone sideways, this sandwich brings the kind of happy sigh we all need once in a while.

It fits right in with my mission at 30min Recipes—quick, nourishing meals made for real life. No fluff, no stress, just food that feels good to eat and easy to make.

Ready to try it? Print the recipe, gather your ingredients, and let’s make this sandwich the star of your next mealtime win.

Before you go…
Have you checked out our Chicken Salad Recipe for Every Taste? They’re perfect for spring lunches, potlucks, and meal prep!