Name: Garlic Herb Grilled Chicken Sandwich
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 4 garlic cloves, minced; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 teaspoon dried parsley; 1 teaspoon kosher salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; 4 brioche or ciabatta buns; 4 lettuce leaves; 4 slices tomato; 4 slices red onion; ½ cup mayonnaise; 1 grated garlic clove; 1 teaspoon lemon zest

I still remember the first time I had a garlic herb grilled chicken sandwich. I wasn’t at a fancy restaurant or backyard BBQ. It happened at a local food truck fair tucked into a side street during a trip down south. I ordered it on a whim, craving something simple but flavorful after a long day on my feet. What I got was a juicy, herb-crusted grilled chicken breast tucked between a perfectly toasted bun with fresh lettuce, tangy tomato, and a garlic-infused spread that made every bite feel like the first.

After that day, I couldn’t get the flavor out of my head. So, I did what anyone would do: I went home and recreated it. Over time, I made it my own, adjusting the herbs, adding a bit more garlic, changing the bread, perfecting the marinade. Now, this garlic herb grilled chicken sandwich is on regular rotation in my kitchen.

It’s quick enough for weeknights, satisfying enough for a crowd, and versatile enough to pair with any side. Whether you’re craving a sandwich dinner or wondering what to make with grilled chicken leftovers, this one’s always a winner.

Why You’ll Love This Garlic Herb Grilled Chicken Sandwich

It’s packed with juicy garlic herb flavor in every bite
Ready in under 30 minutes with easy-to-find ingredients
Works with chicken breasts or tenders for flexible cooking
Pairs perfectly with fresh or grilled veggies and crunchy slaws
A healthy dinner sandwich recipe that doesn’t taste like a compromise

Garlic Herb Chicken Sandwich Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make four sandwiches:

2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or 4 chicken tenders)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon lemon juice
4 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried parsley
1 teaspoon kosher salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
4 brioche or ciabatta sandwich buns
4 lettuce leaves
4 slices of tomato
4 slices of red onion
½ cup mayonnaise
1 garlic clove, grated (for garlic mayo)
1 teaspoon lemon zest (for garlic mayo)

Optional toppings: sliced avocado, baby spinach, microgreens

These fresh, colorful ingredients make the sandwich feel gourmet, even if you’re just making dinner on a Tuesday.

How to Make Garlic Herb Grilled Chicken Sandwich

Follow these steps for the perfect sandwich every time:

Marinate the Chicken
In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, thyme, parsley, salt, and pepper. Add chicken and let it marinate for at least 15 minutes while you prep the toppings.
Make Garlic Mayo
In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise with grated garlic and lemon zest. Stir until smooth and refrigerate.
Grill the Chicken
Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium heat. Cook chicken for 5–6 minutes per side until golden and cooked through (internal temp: 165°F). Let rest for 5 minutes, then slice if needed.
Assemble the Sandwich
Toast buns lightly, spread garlic mayo on both sides, layer lettuce, tomato, onion, and grilled chicken. Press lightly and serve warm.

Looking for a tasty side? Try it with this Slow Cooker Street Corn Chicken as a bold and flavorful match.

Best Sides & Ways to Serve Chicken Sandwiches

Whether you’re hosting or just trying to beat the dinner rush, this sandwich is super flexible.

Serve with crispy sweet potato fries or homemade wedges
Add a fresh cucumber salad or coleslaw for a crunchy side
Pair it with iced tea or sparkling lemonade for a summer feel
Slice into quarters for party platters or sandwich boards
Serve with soup or broth on colder nights for cozy comfort

This garlic chicken sandwich recipe works for nearly any mood or season, giving you a solid option when sandwiches feel too basic.

Chicken Sandwich Variations & Customizations

This sandwich adapts to what’s in your fridge or who you’re serving. Try these customizations:

Use boneless skinless chicken thighs for a richer flavor
Add grilled zucchini or bell peppers for extra veggies
Go spicy by mixing chili flakes into your mayo
Swap brioche for sourdough or whole wheat sandwich rolls
Skip the bun and serve over a salad bowl for low-carb eating

For those who prefer dark meat, this Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs recipe adds incredible juiciness and flavor depth.

Storage & Reheating Tips for Grilled Chicken Sandwiches

Grilled chicken stores well and keeps its flavor if handled right:

Store cooked chicken separately in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days
Reheat gently in a skillet over medium-low heat or use a microwave for 1–2 minutes
Refresh with a small splash of lemon juice or water to retain moisture
Toast buns again before serving to revive texture

Assemble fresh to keep the veggies crisp and the bread from getting soggy.

Pro Tips for the Best Grilled Chicken Sandwich

Pound your chicken breasts to an even thickness for consistent cooking
Always let grilled chicken rest before slicing, it keeps the juices in
Toast your buns lightly to prevent sogginess from mayo and tomatoes
Marinate at least 15 minutes, but overnight is even better for bold flavor
Use a thermometer to avoid overcooking; aim for 165°F internal temp

When you want a flavorful meal without a lot of fuss, this garlic chicken sandwich is a solid go-to. Want more garlic-forward inspiration? Check out this Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice as a delicious dinner side.

Common Mistakes to Avoid With Garlic Chicken Sandwiches

Even simple sandwiches can go sideways if you miss the basics. Watch out for these common pitfalls:

Skipping the marinade means flavorless chicken
Using cold chicken from the fridge makes grilling uneven
Overcooking dries it out, use a thermometer and remove at 165°F
Not toasting the bread can lead to soggy bites
Slicing too soon causes juices to run out, leaving it dry

Take a few extra minutes to prep right, and this sandwich turns into a craveable favorite.

Conclusion

This garlic herb grilled chicken sandwich isn’t just another quick sandwich idea. It’s a full-flavored, juicy, and satisfying meal that comes together fast but feels like something you’d order from a favorite café. Whether you’re planning your weekly sandwich dinners, looking for chicken tender sandwich recipes, or craving a healthier take on a manly sandwich, this recipe delivers.

The textures, the flavors, the ease, it’s a sandwich worth repeating.

Want more crowd-pleasing favorites? This Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Dip makes a spicy side or game day snack worth dipping into.

FAQs About Garlic Herb Grilled Chicken Sandwich

Can I use chicken tenders for this garlic herb grilled chicken sandwich?

Yes, chicken tenders work well and cook faster. Just adjust grill time to avoid drying them out.

What bread is best for a garlic chicken sandwich?

Brioche or ciabatta are great choices. They hold up to juicy chicken without getting soggy.

How do I keep grilled chicken juicy in a sandwich?

Pound it evenly, marinate with oil and herbs, and avoid overcooking. Rest the chicken before slicing to keep juices in.

What can I serve with a garlic herb grilled chicken sandwich?

Fresh salads, seasoned fries, roasted veggies, or even a chilled pasta salad work well with the bold flavors.

Can I prep the garlic herb chicken sandwich ahead of time?

Yes, marinate and cook the chicken in advance. Store it separately, and assemble just before serving for best results.