There’s something magical about the combo of crisp lettuce, juicy tomato, and savory grilled chicken—all nestled between slices of golden garlic butter toast. This Garlic Butter Lettuce Tomato and Grilled Chicken Sandwich is exactly that kind of magic. It’s hearty, flavorful, and surprisingly easy to make at home, even if you’re new to the kitchen. Inspired by the classic BLT but turned up a notch, this sandwich packs in juicy grilled chicken and warm, toasty garlic butter bread that gives it irresistible crunch and flavor. Whether you’re cooking for lunch or dinner, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Why You’ll Love This Garlic Butter Lettuce Tomato and Grilled Chicken Sandwich
This isn’t just a sandwich—it’s a full experience. Here’s why this Garlic Butter Lettuce Tomato and Grilled Chicken Sandwich should be your next go-to:
- Flavor-Packed Layers: Garlic butter, juicy tomato, crispy lettuce, and grilled chicken create a satisfying contrast of textures.
- Simple Prep: No complicated steps—just grill, butter, toast, and stack.
- Customizable: Add cheese, avocado, or spice it up with red pepper flakes.
- Great for Any Meal: Whether it’s lunch, dinner, or a picnic sandwich, it delivers every time.
A Quick History of the Garlic Butter Lettuce Tomato and Grilled Chicken Sandwich
Did you know this sandwich has ties to some well-loved classics?
- BLT Roots: It borrows inspiration from the iconic bacon-lettuce-tomato combo, swapping in grilled chicken for a leaner twist.
- Garlic Bread Origins: Garlic-infused butter has long been used in Mediterranean kitchens to elevate simple breads.
- Grilled Chicken Popularity: This protein took center stage in the ‘90s as a healthy meal staple, especially when grilled to juicy perfection.
- Toasted Sandwich Trend: Crispy-on-the-outside sandwiches have seen a surge in recent years—and this one fits right in.
Key Ingredients in Garlic Butter Lettuce Tomato and Grilled Chicken Sandwich
- Thick-Cut Bread – Texas toast or sourdough creates a hearty, golden crunch.
- Garlic Butter – Made with real garlic, butter, herbs, and optional red pepper for flavor that soaks into the bread.
- Chicken Breasts – Grilled until juicy and tender, then sliced thin for easy stacking.
- Lettuce Leaves – Crisp romaine or green leaf adds refreshing crunch.
- Tomatoes – Thick-cut and seasoned, they bring juicy sweetness.
- Mayonnaise – A thin spread adds creamy contrast to the garlicky toast.
- Optional Additions – Cheese slices or avocado for richness and variety.
How to Make Garlic Butter Lettuce Tomato and Grilled Chicken Sandwich
Let’s break it down into easy-to-follow steps for sandwich perfection:
- Grill the Chicken
Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high. Brush chicken breasts with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Grill for 5–6 minutes per side until fully cooked (165°F inside). Rest for 5 minutes, then slice thinly across the grain. - Prepare the Garlic Butter
Mix softened unsalted butter with minced garlic, dried Italian herbs, and red pepper flakes (if you like a kick). Stir until well combined and fragrant. - Toast the Bread
Spread garlic butter on one side of each bread slice. Toast in a skillet over medium heat, buttered side down, for 2–3 minutes or until golden. Set aside, toasted side up. - Get the Fillings Ready
Wash and dry the lettuce. Slice ripe tomatoes and season with salt and pepper. Prepare any extras like sliced cheese or avocado. - Assemble Your Sandwich
Spread mayo on the untoasted sides of bread. Layer lettuce, tomato, grilled chicken, and any extras. Cap with a second slice, garlic-buttered side out. Press lightly and slice in half.
Take your sandwich game up a notch with these helpful tips and fun variations:
Garlic Butter Lettuce Tomato and Grilled Chicken Sandwich Tips and Twists
Top 5 Tips:
- Rest chicken after grilling—it keeps it juicy.
- Use day-old bread for crispier toasting.
- Season tomatoes lightly before layering.
- Don’t overload the sandwich—balance is key.
- Toast bread just before assembling to keep it crisp.
Tasty Twists:
- Add Cheese: Try provolone or Swiss for a melty upgrade.
- Go Spicy: Add jalapeños or use chipotle mayo.
- Make It Deluxe: Layer in sliced avocado for a buttery finish.
Storage, Reheating, and Make-Ahead Tips
Keep your sandwich fresh and flavorful with these smart strategies:
- Storage: Store components separately (especially the bread and lettuce). Keep chicken and garlic butter in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Rewarm grilled chicken in a skillet over medium heat or microwave for 1 minute. Re-toast bread as needed.
- Make-Ahead: Grill the chicken and mix the garlic butter the day before. Slice veggies fresh before serving and assemble just before eating.
Serving Suggestions for Garlic Butter Lettuce Tomato and Grilled Chicken Sandwich
Round out your meal with these flavorful pairings:
- Crispy Sides: Serve with Oven Fried Potatoes and Onions for a perfect crispy contrast.
- Cool Salad: Pair with a Cucumber Tomato Salad for fresh, cooling flavors.
- Bright Beverage: A glass of Refreshing Peach Lemonade balances the savory notes.
- Sweet Finish: Try Blueberry Bread Pudding or Strawberry Icebox Pie to end on a sweet note.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of grilled?
Yes! Just slice and warm it slightly before assembling.
2. What’s the best bread to use?
Thick-cut bread like Texas toast or sourdough works best to soak up the garlic butter without getting soggy.
3. Is this sandwich gluten-free?
Use gluten-free bread and you’re good to go!
4. How spicy is the garlic butter with red pepper flakes?
It adds a mild kick. You can skip it for a milder taste or double it if you love heat.
5. Can I add bacon or turkey instead of chicken?
Definitely—swap proteins to suit your taste!
Enjoy Your Garlic Butter Lettuce Tomato and Grilled Chicken Sandwich
Once you bite into this Garlic Butter Lettuce Tomato and Grilled Chicken Sandwich, you’ll see why it’s a repeat-worthy recipe. The crunch of toasted garlic bread, the juicy freshness of tomato and lettuce, and the tender grilled chicken make it a satisfying meal you’ll want to share—and make again. Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding a hungry crew, this sandwich brings everyone to the table with smiles. Now, go get grilling!
Explore More Recipes You’ll Love
Want to keep the delicious momentum going? Try these tasty favorites from Abby’s Recipes:
- Grilled Chicken Wraps – Similar ingredients, totally portable and kid-friendly.
- Quick Cheddar Bay Biscuits – The ultimate side to soak up any leftover garlic butter.
- Simple Avocado Toast with Egg – Light and bright, perfect for brunch alongside this sandwich.
- Oven Fried Potatoes and Onions – Crunchy, golden, and a perfect match for hearty sandwiches.
- Strawberry Icebox Pie – A cool, fruity dessert that balances this savory meal.
Garlic Butter Lettuce Tomato and Grilled Chicken Sandwich
Ingredients
- 8 slices thick-cut bread Texas toast or sourdough
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter softened
- 2 –3 cloves garlic finely minced
- 1 tsp dried Italian herbs
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes optional
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
- 1 –2 large ripe tomatoes sliced
- Green leaf lettuce or Romaine leaves
- Mayonnaise for spreading
- Optional: 4 slices cheddar provolone, or Swiss cheese
- Optional: 1 sliced avocado
Instructions
- Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high. Pat chicken dry, brush with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Grill 5–6 minutes per side until internal temp hits 165°F. Let rest 5 minutes, then slice thinly.
- In a bowl, mix softened butter with minced garlic, dried herbs, and red pepper flakes. Set aside.
- Spread garlic butter on one side of each bread slice. Toast in a skillet over medium heat, buttered side down, until golden and crispy (2–3 minutes). Remove from heat, toasted side up.
- Wash and prep lettuce. Slice tomatoes and season lightly.
- Spread mayonnaise on the untoasted side of each bread slice.
- Layer lettuce, tomato, grilled chicken, and any optional cheese or avocado. Top with a second bread slice, toasted side facing out.
- Press gently, slice in half, and serve warm.
Notes
Calories: 520 per sandwich (approx.)
Protein: 34g | Carbohydrates: 32g | Fat: 30g | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 5g