The Panera BBQ Chicken Sandwich. Just the name conjures images of juicy chicken, smoky barbecue sauce, and the perfect blend of creamy and crunchy textures. It’s a lunch staple, a comfort food champion, and a flavor explosion all wrapped in a warm, inviting package. But what if you could bring that Panera goodness home? This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step of crafting your own version of this iconic sandwich, from sourcing the ingredients to mastering the assembly.
Understanding the Panera BBQ Chicken Sandwich Philosophy
Before we dive into the recipe, let’s dissect what makes this sandwich so special. It’s not just about slapping some chicken and BBQ sauce between bread. It’s about balance. The sweetness of the sauce is counteracted by the savory chicken and sharp red onion. The creamy dressing provides a cool contrast to the warm meat, and the perfectly toasted bread adds that satisfying crunch. We’ll focus on recreating that harmony.
The Core Components: Breaking Down the Recipe
The Panera BBQ Chicken Sandwich recipe rests on a few key pillars: the chicken, the sauce, the bread, the toppings, and the dressing. Each element plays a vital role in the overall experience, and paying attention to detail in each area will result in a sandwich that rivals, or even surpasses, the original.
Crafting the Perfect BBQ Chicken
The chicken is the star of the show, so getting it right is crucial. We’re aiming for tender, juicy, and flavorful chicken that’s perfectly coated in barbecue sauce.
Choosing Your Chicken: Breast vs. Thigh
Both chicken breast and chicken thigh can work for this recipe, but they offer different advantages. Chicken breast is leaner and offers a classic sandwich feel, while chicken thigh is more flavorful and stays moister during cooking. Consider your preference and cooking experience when making your choice. For this guide, we’ll focus on using chicken breast.
Marinating for Maximum Flavor (Optional but Recommended)
While not strictly necessary, marinating the chicken breast before cooking will infuse it with extra flavor and tenderness. A simple marinade of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper can work wonders. Marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight in the refrigerator.
Cooking the Chicken: Grilling, Baking, or Pan-Frying
You have several options for cooking the chicken, each with its own set of pros and cons:
- Grilling: Grilling imparts a smoky flavor that complements the BBQ sauce beautifully. Make sure to preheat your grill to medium-high heat and grill the chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
- Baking: Baking is a hands-off method that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the chicken for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through.
- Pan-Frying: Pan-frying is a quick and easy option for smaller batches. Heat a tablespoon of oil in a skillet over medium heat and cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
Regardless of your chosen method, ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure it’s safe to eat. Use a meat thermometer for accurate readings.
Shredding or Slicing the Chicken
Once the chicken is cooked, let it rest for a few minutes before shredding or slicing. Shredding creates a more uniform texture and helps the BBQ sauce cling to the chicken. Slicing offers a more visually appealing presentation and a heartier bite. Either option works well, so choose the one that suits your preference.
Selecting the Perfect BBQ Sauce
The BBQ sauce is the heart and soul of this sandwich. It’s what gives it that signature sweet and smoky flavor.
Homemade vs. Store-Bought: Weighing Your Options
You can either use a store-bought BBQ sauce or make your own from scratch. Store-bought sauces offer convenience and a wide variety of flavors, while homemade sauces allow for complete customization and control over ingredients.
Choosing the Right Store-Bought Sauce
If opting for a store-bought sauce, look for one that’s sweet, smoky, and slightly tangy. Popular choices include Kansas City-style sauces, which are known for their balanced flavor profile. Avoid sauces that are overly sweet or spicy, as they may overpower the other ingredients.
Crafting Your Own BBQ Sauce (A Simple Recipe)
If you’re feeling adventurous, try making your own BBQ sauce. Here’s a simple recipe to get you started:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
Instructions:
- Combine all ingredients in a saucepan.
- Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring constantly.
- Reduce heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
Coating the Chicken in BBQ Sauce
Once you have your chicken and BBQ sauce ready, it’s time to bring them together. In a bowl, toss the shredded or sliced chicken with the BBQ sauce until evenly coated. Make sure every piece of chicken is generously covered in the flavorful sauce.
The Bread: Choosing Your Canvas
The bread is the foundation of the sandwich. It needs to be sturdy enough to hold all the ingredients without falling apart, yet soft enough to be enjoyable to eat.
Panera’s Choice: The Focaccia Roll
Panera typically uses a focaccia roll for their BBQ Chicken Sandwich. Focaccia is a flatbread that’s known for its airy texture and olive oil flavor. It’s a great choice for this sandwich because it provides a sturdy base and a subtle savory note that complements the other flavors.
Alternative Bread Options
If you can’t find focaccia rolls, here are some other bread options that will work well:
- Ciabatta Rolls: Ciabatta rolls have a similar texture to focaccia and are widely available.
- Brioche Buns: Brioche buns are soft, buttery, and slightly sweet. They add a touch of richness to the sandwich.
- Sourdough Rolls: Sourdough rolls offer a tangy flavor that complements the BBQ sauce nicely.
Toasting for Texture and Stability
Toasting the bread is essential for adding texture and preventing the sandwich from becoming soggy. Toast the bread lightly until it’s golden brown and slightly crisp. This will create a sturdy base for the ingredients and add a satisfying crunch to each bite.
The Toppings: Adding Depth and Complexity
The toppings are what elevate this sandwich from ordinary to extraordinary. They add layers of flavor, texture, and visual appeal.
Red Onion: A Sharp Contrast
Thinly sliced red onion provides a sharp, tangy counterpoint to the sweetness of the BBQ sauce and the richness of the chicken. Red onion is crucial for adding that signature Panera zing.
Cilantro: A Fresh Herbaceous Note
A sprinkle of fresh cilantro adds a bright, herbaceous note that cuts through the richness of the other ingredients. Cilantro complements the BBQ sauce and adds a refreshing element to the sandwich.
Pickles: The Tangy Secret Weapon
Some versions of the Panera BBQ Chicken Sandwich include pickles, adding a tangy and crunchy element that balances the sweetness and richness. Dill pickles or bread and butter pickles both work well.
The Dressing: Creamy Perfection
The dressing adds a creamy, cooling element that ties all the flavors together.
Choosing Your Dressing Base
The key is to create a creamy base that complements the other ingredients. Options include:
- Mayonnaise: Provides a classic creamy texture.
- Greek Yogurt: Offers a tangier, healthier alternative.
- Sour Cream: Adds richness and a slight tang.
Adding Flavor to Your Dressing
To elevate your dressing, consider adding ingredients like:
- Chipotle Peppers in Adobo Sauce: For a smoky, spicy kick.
- Lime Juice: For brightness and acidity.
- Garlic Powder: For savory depth.
A Simple Creamy Chipotle Dressing Recipe
Here’s a simple recipe for a creamy chipotle dressing:
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, minced
- 1 teaspoon lime juice
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Combine all ingredients in a bowl.
- Stir until well combined.
- Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
Assembling Your Masterpiece: The Art of Sandwich Construction
Now that you have all your ingredients prepared, it’s time to assemble your sandwich. This is where the magic happens!
The Layering Process: Building the Perfect Bite
- Spread the dressing: Spread a generous amount of the creamy dressing on both halves of the toasted bread.
- Add the BBQ chicken: Layer the BBQ chicken on the bottom half of the bread.
- Top with red onion and cilantro: Sprinkle the red onion and cilantro over the chicken.
- Add pickles (optional): If using pickles, arrange them on top of the red onion and cilantro.
- Close the sandwich: Carefully place the top half of the bread over the fillings.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
Serve your Panera BBQ Chicken Sandwich immediately for the best flavor and texture. Pair it with a side of coleslaw, potato salad, or a simple green salad. A cold glass of iced tea or lemonade is the perfect beverage complement.
Tips and Tricks for Sandwich Success
- Don’t overcook the chicken: Overcooked chicken will be dry and tough. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it’s cooked to the proper internal temperature.
- Toast the bread: Toasting the bread prevents the sandwich from becoming soggy and adds a satisfying crunch.
- Don’t be afraid to experiment: Feel free to adjust the ingredients and toppings to your liking.
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh ingredients will always result in a better-tasting sandwich.
- Make it your own: This recipe is a starting point. Feel free to add your own personal touches to create a sandwich that’s uniquely yours. The most important thing is to enjoy the process and have fun!
Ingredient Table for Quick Reference
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|——————–|———————|———————————————————————————-|
| Chicken Breast | 2 | Boneless, skinless |
| BBQ Sauce | 1/2 cup | Store-bought or homemade |
| Focaccia Rolls | 2 | Or ciabatta, brioche, or sourdough rolls |
| Red Onion | 1/4 cup | Thinly sliced |
| Cilantro | 2 tablespoons | Freshly chopped |
| Pickles | As desired | Dill or bread and butter |
| Mayonnaise | 1/2 cup | For the dressing, can substitute with Greek yogurt or sour cream |
| Chipotle Peppers | 1 tablespoon | Minced, for the dressing |
| Lime Juice | 1 teaspoon | For the dressing |
| Garlic Powder | 1/2 teaspoon | For the dressing |
| Olive Oil | 1 tablespoon | For marinating or pan-frying |
| Salt and Pepper | To taste | |
Enjoy Your Homemade Panera BBQ Chicken Sandwich!
With this guide, you’re now equipped to recreate the magic of the Panera BBQ Chicken Sandwich in your own kitchen. Enjoy the process, experiment with flavors, and savor every delicious bite! Remember that cooking is about creativity, so don’t be afraid to put your personal spin on this classic recipe.
What type of bread is best to use for a Panera-style BBQ Chicken Sandwich?
For a truly authentic Panera experience, Asiago Cheese Focaccia is the ideal bread choice. Its slightly tangy flavor and airy, chewy texture complement the sweet and smoky BBQ chicken perfectly. The cheese adds a subtle savory note that elevates the sandwich beyond a simple bread and filling combination, mirroring the original Panera experience.
If Asiago Cheese Focaccia is unavailable, a good alternative would be a ciabatta roll or a thick-sliced artisan bread with a chewy crust. Look for bread with a subtle flavor that won’t overpower the BBQ chicken. Toasting the bread lightly before assembling the sandwich will help prevent it from becoming soggy and enhance the overall texture.
What’s the secret to Panera’s BBQ sauce flavor?
While Panera’s exact recipe is a closely guarded secret, the key is a balance of sweet, smoky, and tangy flavors. Many commercially available BBQ sauces lean too heavily in one direction, so it’s often best to either modify an existing sauce or make your own from scratch. Consider starting with a base of tomato paste, vinegar, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, and a touch of smoked paprika.
To further replicate Panera’s flavor profile, experiment with adding a small amount of molasses for depth and a pinch of cayenne pepper for a subtle kick. The sauce should be thick enough to coat the chicken without being overly sticky. Taste as you go, adjusting the ingredients until you achieve the desired balance of flavors that reminds you of the original Panera BBQ sauce.
What’s the best way to cook the chicken for the sandwich?
There are several ways to cook the chicken, each with its own benefits. Grilling provides a smoky flavor that complements the BBQ sauce. Pan-frying is quick and easy, resulting in a tender and juicy chicken breast. Baking is a hands-off approach that ensures even cooking.
Regardless of your chosen method, ensure the chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Once cooked, shred or slice the chicken into bite-sized pieces and toss it with the BBQ sauce. This allows the sauce to fully coat the chicken, maximizing the flavor in every bite. Consider adding a touch of extra BBQ sauce after assembling the sandwich for an even more intense flavor experience.
What kind of cheese should I use if I can’t find Asiago?
Asiago cheese offers a nutty and slightly tangy flavor that works well with the sweetness of the BBQ sauce. However, if you can’t find Asiago, a good substitute would be provolone cheese. Provolone has a mild, slightly sharp flavor that complements the other ingredients without overpowering them.
Another alternative is mozzarella, which offers a mild and creamy texture that pairs well with the BBQ chicken. If you prefer a sharper flavor, consider using a mild cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese. The key is to choose a cheese that melts well and doesn’t compete with the other flavors in the sandwich.
What kind of onion straws should I use, store-bought or homemade?
Both store-bought and homemade onion straws can work well in a Panera-style BBQ chicken sandwich. Store-bought onion straws offer convenience and consistency, making them a great option for a quick and easy meal. Look for brands that offer crispy and flavorful onion straws without being overly salty or greasy.
Homemade onion straws, on the other hand, provide a superior flavor and texture. Making them from scratch allows you to control the ingredients and customize the flavor to your liking. You can experiment with different seasonings and flour coatings to create onion straws that perfectly complement the other flavors in the sandwich. However, making them from scratch requires more time and effort.
Can I make this sandwich vegetarian or vegan?
Yes, you can easily adapt this recipe to be vegetarian or vegan. For a vegetarian option, substitute the chicken with grilled halloumi cheese or portobello mushrooms. Both offer a hearty and flavorful alternative that pairs well with the BBQ sauce and other toppings.
For a vegan version, use the same halloumi or portobello mushroom substitute, but ensure the BBQ sauce is vegan-friendly (many contain honey). Also, omit the Asiago cheese or substitute it with a vegan cheese alternative. Finally, ensure the bread is also vegan, as some focaccia recipes contain dairy. The onion straws are typically vegan-friendly.
How can I prevent the sandwich from getting soggy?
One of the biggest challenges when making sandwiches with wet ingredients like BBQ sauce is preventing them from becoming soggy. The key is to minimize the contact between the wet ingredients and the bread. Toasting the bread lightly before assembling the sandwich creates a barrier that helps prevent moisture from seeping in.
Another tip is to layer the ingredients strategically. Place a layer of lettuce or a thin spread of mayonnaise or mustard between the BBQ chicken and the bread. These layers act as a buffer, preventing the BBQ sauce from directly soaking into the bread. Assembling the sandwich just before serving also helps to maintain its freshness and prevent it from becoming soggy over time.