Best Cheeses For Chicken Bacon Ranch Sandwiches

A chicken bacon ranch sandwich is a delicious and easy meal to make, and there are many ways to make it your own. The type of cheese you use is a key component of this sandwich. While some recipes call for Monterey Jack, Colby jack, or sharp cheddar cheese, others suggest mozzarella, Swiss, provolone, or American cheese. Ultimately, the cheese you choose depends on your personal preference.

Chicken, bacon, and ranch: the perfect combo?

Chicken, bacon, and ranch is a classic flavour combination that works for sandwiches, pasta, and even crescent bites. But what is it about this trio that makes it so delicious? And what's the best way to assemble a chicken bacon ranch sandwich?

The Chicken

The type of chicken used in a bacon ranch sandwich can vary. Some recipes call for chicken breasts, while others suggest chicken thighs or rotisserie chicken. The key is to ensure the chicken is juicy and tender. One tip is to season the chicken with ranch seasoning, kosher salt, pepper, and olive oil before grilling.

The Bacon

Bacon is a versatile ingredient that can be cooked to different levels of crispness. For a chicken bacon ranch sandwich, it's important to find the right balance. Super thick-cut bacon may be too overwhelming, while super thin bacon might not hold its shape. Look for bacon that's somewhere in the middle. Cooking the bacon until it's golden brown will add a nice crispy texture to the sandwich.

The Ranch

Ranch dressing is a key component of this sandwich. While bottled or store-bought ranch dressing can be used, making it from scratch can take the sandwich to the next level. A good ranch dressing should be creamy and zesty, adding a tangy flavour to the sandwich.

The Cheese

Different types of cheese can be used in a chicken bacon ranch sandwich, depending on personal preference. Popular options include sharp Cheddar, Monterey Jack, mozzarella, American, Colby Jack, Gruyère, or gouda. The cheese should be melted to bring all the ingredients together and create a gooey, indulgent sandwich.

Putting It All Together

To assemble the sandwich, start by spreading ranch dressing on the bread. Then, layer the chicken, bacon, and cheese. Some recipes also include additional ingredients like lettuce, tomato, avocado, or onion. Finally, top it off with another slice of bread. The sandwich can be grilled, pan-fried, or toasted until the cheese is melted and the bread is golden brown.

The Verdict

So, is chicken, bacon, and ranch the perfect combo? The answer is a resounding yes! The combination of juicy chicken, crispy bacon, creamy ranch, and melted cheese creates a flavour profile that is hard to beat. It's a simple yet indulgent sandwich that can be customised to suit different tastes. Whether it's a quick snack or a hearty meal, a chicken bacon ranch sandwich is sure to satisfy.

What type of cheese works best?

When it comes to the cheese in a chicken bacon ranch sandwich, there are several options that work well. The choice of cheese depends on your personal preference, and you can opt for a variety that melts well or has a sharp flavour. Here are some popular options:

Cheddar Cheese

Cheddar cheese is a versatile and widely used option for this sandwich. It pairs well with the other ingredients and adds a nice sharpness to the overall flavour profile. Cheddar cheese is available in different varieties, such as mild, sharp, or extra sharp, allowing you to customise the taste to your liking.

Monterey Jack Cheese

Monterey Jack cheese is another popular choice, especially if you want to keep things Californian. It has a mild and creamy flavour with a hint of sweetness, making it an excellent melting cheese for sandwiches.

Mozzarella, Colby Jack, Gruyère, or Gouda

These cheeses also work well in a chicken bacon ranch sandwich. Mozzarella is known for its stretchy, melty texture and mild flavour. Colby Jack has a similar texture to cheddar but with a milder taste. Gruyère and gouda offer a more distinct, nutty flavour that can elevate your sandwich.

Cream Cheese

For a creamy and tangy twist, cream cheese is an excellent option. It blends well with the ranch seasoning, Dijon mustard, sour cream, and shredded cheese to create a smooth and luscious mixture that forms the base of the sandwich.

Pepperjack Cheese

If you're feeling adventurous, pepperjack cheese adds a nice kick to your sandwich. It's a Monterey Jack cheese with spicy chilli peppers added, giving your chicken bacon ranch sandwich an extra layer of flavour and a touch of heat.

Bread options

When it comes to bread options for a chicken bacon ranch sandwich, there are several types that pair well with the flavours of chicken, bacon, and ranch. Here are some options to consider:

• Sourdough: Sourdough bread is a popular choice for this sandwich, as its tangy flavour and chewy texture complement the other ingredients.
• Italian Bread: Italian bread is another option that works well. It has a light centre with a slight crust, adding a bit of crunch to the sandwich.
• Classic Sandwich Bread: If you prefer a softer bread, classic sandwich bread is always an option. It's a neutral choice that lets the other ingredients shine.
• Hoagie or Sub Rolls: For a heartier sandwich, a hoagie or sub roll is a good choice. These longer rolls can accommodate more fillings and are great for a larger sandwich.
• Brioche or Seedy Whole Grain Rolls: For a touch of sweetness, a brioche roll is an excellent option. Alternatively, a seedy whole grain roll adds texture and a nutty flavour.
• Tortillas: If you want to switch things up, you can use tortillas to make a wrap or quesadilla. This option is great if you want a more portable and mess-free meal.
• Classic Bun: A traditional bun is always an option and is a classic choice for a reason. It's versatile and can be used for a variety of sandwich fillings.
• Brioche Buns or Hawaiian Rolls: For a sweeter option, brioche buns or Hawaiian rolls are a delicious choice. They add a soft and fluffy texture to the sandwich.

No matter which bread option you choose, it's important to consider the texture and flavour profile you want for your sandwich. Some breads, like sourdough, add a tangy flavour, while others, like Italian bread, offer a lighter and slightly crusty option. Ultimately, the choice depends on your personal preference and the overall experience you want to create with your chicken bacon ranch sandwich.

How to cook the chicken

There are several ways to cook the chicken for your sandwich. You can bake, fry, poach, or grill it, depending on your preference. Here is a guide to each method:

Baking

Baking chicken is a convenient option, and you can use boneless chicken breasts, a whole chicken, or bone-in chicken pieces. Start by coating the chicken with olive oil, salt, and pepper for a simple and versatile flavour. Alternatively, you can use a salt-based seasoning blend, ranch seasoning mix, or your favourite spices and herbs. To enhance the flavour even more, consider marinating the chicken before baking. Salad dressings, such as Italian or creamy balsamic, make excellent bases for simple marinades. Bake the chicken until the thickest part reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

Frying

If you prefer a crispy texture, frying is a great option. For breaded chicken, coat the chicken pieces in creamy salad dressing or beaten egg, then roll them in a mixture of seasoned bread crumbs and Parmesan cheese. Fry the chicken until it is crisp and golden.

Poaching

Poaching or simmering chicken slowly yields tender meat, which is ideal for chicken salad sandwiches. You can poach the chicken on the stove or in the oven, using water, broth, or a combination of both. The key to flavourful poached chicken is to use a tasty poaching liquid. Add ingredients like lemon, garlic, and your favourite seasonings to the pan.

Grilling

Grilling is a popular choice for chicken sandwiches. Start by marinating the chicken in an oil-based or creamy salad dressing, or your favourite marinade. Toss the chicken on the grill and cook until it's almost done. Then, brush it with reserved marinade or barbecue sauce. Serve the grilled chicken hot on sandwiches, or let it cool and use it for cold sandwiches. Remember to use a separate brush or spoon to baste the chicken with marinade during cooking, as raw chicken can contaminate the original marinade.

General Tips for Cooking Chicken:

• Always ensure your chicken is thoroughly cooked. The internal temperature should reach 165°F to eliminate any harmful bacteria.
• Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute, resulting in juicier meat.
• If using leftovers, store the cooked chicken properly and consume it within a few days.

How to cook the bacon

Now that you've got an idea of what cheese to use for your chicken bacon ranch sandwich, it's time to cook the bacon!

How to Cook Bacon:

There are several ways to cook bacon, each with its pros and cons. You can cook bacon on a stovetop, in an oven, by grilling, or even in an air fryer. Here's a detailed look at each method:

Stovetop Bacon:

Cooking bacon on the stovetop is a classic and quick method. Here's a step-by-step guide:

• Start with a cold pan. Place your bacon strips in the pan before turning on the heat. You can crowd the pan a little as the bacon will shrink while cooking, but avoid overlapping the strips.
• Cook over low heat. Bacon cooks best slowly over low heat. Soon, the bacon will start to release its fat.
• Use tongs to loosen and turn the strips. When the bacon starts to buckle and curl, use tongs to turn each slice and cook the other side. Keep flipping and turning for even browning.
• Pour off excess grease carefully. Bacon fat can cause grease fires, so be cautious when pouring off the grease. Turn off the flame while pouring, and check for grease dripping down the sides of the pan.
• Cook to your desired doneness. Depending on your preference, cook the bacon until it's crispy or a little loose. Remember that the bacon will continue to cook a bit after being removed from the pan.
• Drain the cooked bacon. Use tongs to remove the bacon from the pan and place it on paper towels or a paper bag to absorb excess grease.
• Cook the remaining bacon in batches. If you have more bacon to cook, simply drain the excess grease and add more bacon to the pan.

Oven-Baked Bacon:

Cooking bacon in the oven is a hands-off method that yields evenly cooked and crispy bacon. Here's how to do it:

• Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) or 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Line a large baking sheet. You can use parchment paper or foil to line the sheet, or simply use a non-stick baking sheet.
• Lay the bacon slices on the baking sheet. For extra crispiness, you can place another sheet of greaseproof paper on top and weigh it down with a casserole dish or ovenproof frying pan.
• Cook the bacon. Bake for 10 to 20 minutes, depending on your desired level of crispiness. Rotate the pan halfway through for even cooking.
• Remove and drain the bacon. Use tongs to transfer the cooked bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess grease.

Grilled Bacon:

Grilling bacon is another option, though it may require a bit more attention. Here's how to do it:

• Heat a grill to its highest setting.
• Line a baking sheet with foil and add the bacon.
• Grill the bacon. Place the baking sheet under the grill and cook for 2-4 minutes on each side, depending on your desired crispiness.

Air-Fryer Bacon:

If you have an air fryer, you can also use it to cook crispy bacon. Here's the process:

• Heat the air fryer to 180°C.
• Lay the bacon rashers in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
• Cook for 8-10 minutes. Turn the bacon once, if needed, until it's cooked and crisp around the edges.

Tips for Cooking Bacon:

• Choose the right bacon: Different types of bacon, like streaky bacon and back bacon, have different fat contents and thicknesses. Streaky bacon is fattier and thinner, while back bacon is leaner.
• No need for oil: Bacon is fatty, so there's no need to add oil to the pan when cooking. The fat will render, and the bacon will release from the pan.
• Save the bacon drippings: Don't discard the leftover bacon grease! Let it cool and save it for cooking other dishes. Bacon grease adds a rich flavor to meats, vegetables, and more.
• Deal with splatter: Bacon can splatter during cooking, creating a mess and potentially causing burns. Use a splatter screen, wear an apron, and use oven mitts to protect yourself.

Frequently asked questions