Garlic Butter Lettuce, Tomato & Grilled Chicken Sandwich

I love this Garlic Butter Lettuce, Tomato & Grilled Chicken Sandwich—it’s a savory, fresh twist on a classic grilled chicken sandwich. The garlic butter adds richness, while crisp lettuce and juicy tomato keep it bright and satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I adore how the garlic butter toast makes each bite indulgent, yet the fresh veggies and lean grilled chicken keep it balanced. It’s easy enough for a quick lunch but feels elevated and flavorful. I always feel energized and content after biting into this sandwich.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Boneless, skinless chicken breast

• Bread of choice (such as ciabatta, baguette, sourdough)

• Unsalted butter, softened

• Garlic cloves, minced

• Leaf lettuce (like romaine or butter lettuce)

• Tomato, sliced

• Olive oil

• Salt

• Black pepper

• Optional: mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, fresh herbs (like basil or parsley)

Directions

1. I prepare the garlic butter by mixing softened butter and minced garlic in a small bowl.

2. I season the chicken breast with salt, pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil, then grill it over medium-high heat for about 6–7 minutes per side (depending on thickness) until it reaches 165 °F. I let it rest while I get everything else ready.

3. While the chicken rests, I spread garlic butter evenly on cut sides of the bread.

4. I toast the garlic-buttered bread on a hot skillet or grill pan until golden and fragrant, about 2–3 minutes per side.

5. I layer lettuce and tomato on one side of the toasted bread, seasoning the tomato with a pinch of salt and pepper.

6. I place the rested grilled chicken on top of the veggies, optionally spreading mayonnaise or Dijon mustard on the opposite bread slice.

7. I close the sandwich, press lightly, slice in half, and serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: I get 2 hearty sandwiches

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 15 minutes (including chicken resting and toasting)

• Total Time: About 25 minutes

Variations

• Spicy aioli: I mix mayonnaise with sriracha or harissa and spread it on the bread instead of plain mayo.

• Avocado addition: I add sliced or smashed avocado for creaminess and healthy fats.

• Cheesy upgrade: I melt a slice of provolone, Swiss, or cheddar over the warm chicken before assembling.

• Herbed garlic butter: I stir chopped fresh herbs—like parsley, chives, or basil—into the garlic butter before toasting.

• Pesto twist: I swap garlic butter for basil pesto on the bread for an herby, nutty flavor.

Storage/Reheating

I like eating this sandwich fresh, but if I have leftovers, I wrap it tightly in foil and keep it in the fridge for up to 1 day. When I’m ready to enjoy it again, I reheat it in a 350 °F oven (or air fryer) for about 5 minutes—just until warmed through and the garlic butter toasts up again. I avoid microwave reheating, since it can make the bread tough.

FAQs

How can I tell when the chicken is cooked perfectly?

I rely on an instant-read thermometer—165 °F in the thickest part of the breast means it’s safe and juicy. I also look for clear juices and no pink inside.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breast?

Definitely—I often swap in boneless thighs. They take about the same time to cook and stay even juicier.

Do I have to grill the chicken?

No—I sometimes pan-sear it. I heat a skillet with a little oil, cook the chicken 6–7 minutes per side over medium-high heat, then let it rest. It still tastes great.

Can this be made ahead for lunch?

I prep components ahead—grill the chicken, make garlic butter, and slice the veggies. Then I assemble and toast it fresh before eating for best texture.

What other veggies pair well in this sandwich?

I love adding cucumber slices, red onion rings, roasted red peppers, or even baby spinach for extra flavor and crunch.

Conclusion

I find this Garlic Butter Lettuce, Tomato & Grilled Chicken Sandwich to be a delicious, balanced meal that’s both quick and gourmet. With crisp veggies, juicy chicken, and that unmistakable garlic butter flavor, it hits all the right notes whether I’m in a hurry or unwinding after a busy day.