Name: Delicious Chopped Chicken Beef Bacon Ranch Sub
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 1 large sub
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked chicken, chopped; 4 slices beef bacon, cooked and crumbled; 1/2 cup ranch dressing; 1 large sub roll; 1 cup lettuce, shredded; 1/2 cup tomatoes, diced; 1/4 cup cheddar cheese, shredded

Delicious Chopped Chicken Beef Bacon Ranch Sub – just the name itself promises an explosion of flavors and textures, doesn’t it? As an avid home cook and sandwich enthusiast, I can confidently say that this isn’t just another sub; it’s a culinary masterpiece packed between two slices of a perfect roll. There’s something inherently satisfying about a well-constructed sandwich, a concept that has evolved from simple sustenance into a beloved staple worldwide. From its humble beginnings as a practical meal for workers, the sub, or “hoagie” as it’s known in some regions, has become an iconic part of American culinary culture, cherished for its portability and versatility.

What makes this particular creation so incredibly popular and utterly crave-worthy? It’s the harmonious blend of savory, tender chicken, rich, flavorful beef, and crispy, smoky bacon, all expertly chopped and then lavishly tossed in a creamy, tangy ranch dressing. This careful chopping ensures every single bite delivers a symphony of ingredients, making each mouthful a truly unforgettable experience. People adore this dish not only for its incredible taste and dynamic texture but also for its sheer convenience and adaptability. It’s the ultimate crowd-pleaser for game day, a fantastic option for a quick weeknight dinner, or even a sophisticated addition to a casual get-together. Get ready to elevate your sandwich game with this magnificent Delicious Chopped Chicken Beef Bacon Ranch Sub, a recipe I am thrilled to share with you.

Ingredients:

Six (6) High-Quality Submarine Rolls: I always recommend using fresh, soft hoagie or hero rolls, about 8-10 inches in length. The quality of your bread can make or break a sandwich, so don’t skimp here!
One (1) Pound Cooked Chicken Breast: For ultimate convenience, a store-bought rotisserie chicken works wonders. Otherwise, two large boneless, skinless chicken breasts, grilled or baked, will do the trick.
One (1) Pound Cooked Roast Beef: Opt for good quality deli-sliced roast beef, preferably thinly sliced. Alternatively, you can quickly sear and slice a small beef steak (like sirloin or flank steak) if you’re feeling ambitious and want an even richer flavor for your Delicious Chopped Chicken Beef Bacon Ranch Sub.
Eight (8) Strips Thick-Cut Bacon: Cooked to a perfect crispness. I find that thick-cut bacon holds up better to chopping and adds a wonderful texture contrast.
One (1) Cup Creamy Ranch Dressing: Your favorite brand will work perfectly, but if you’re feeling extra, a homemade ranch dressing will elevate this sub to gourmet status. Have a little extra on hand for drizzling!
One (1) Cup Shredded or Sliced Provolone Cheese: Or a blend of Monterey Jack and mild cheddar. Sliced cheese can be chopped into smaller pieces; shredded is convenient.
One (1) Head Iceberg Lettuce: Or Romaine lettuce for a slightly different crunch. Washed, dried, and ready for chopping.
Two (2) Ripe Roma Tomatoes: Sliced thinly or diced.
Half (1/2) Red Onion: Peeled and very thinly sliced, or finely diced, depending on your preference for onion bite.
Half (1/2) Cup Dill Pickle Chips or Spears: Chopped.
Two (2) Tablespoons Olive Oil (Optional): For toasting the sub rolls.
Salt and Freshly Ground Black Pepper: To taste.
Garlic Powder (Optional): A pinch for seasoning the proteins.
Onion Powder (Optional): Another pinch for seasoning.

Preparing Your Proteins for the Delicious Chopped Chicken Beef Bacon Ranch Sub

Getting the Chicken Ready:

If you’re using a rotisserie chicken, which is my go-to for speed and flavor, carefully remove all the meat from the bones. Discard the skin (unless you love it, then keep a little!). If you’re starting with raw chicken breasts, I recommend seasoning them simply with a pinch of salt, black pepper, and a tiny bit of garlic powder. You can grill them, bake them at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes until cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F or 74°C), or pan-fry them. Once cooked, let the chicken breasts rest for about 5-10 minutes. This resting period is crucial as it allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring your chicken stays tender and moist. After resting, dice the chicken into small, uniform pieces. The key here is uniformity – we want every bite of our Delicious Chopped Chicken Beef Bacon Ranch Sub to be consistent in texture and flavor.
Prepping the Beef:

For the roast beef, if you’ve opted for thinly sliced deli meat, your job is easy. Simply stack the slices neatly and then chop them into small, bite-sized pieces. Again, aim for consistency in size with the chopped chicken. If you’re using a raw steak, pat it dry thoroughly. Season it generously with salt and pepper. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat with a tablespoon of olive oil. Sear the steak for about 2-3 minutes per side for medium-rare, or longer if you prefer it more well-done. Let it rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing it against the grain into very thin strips, and then proceed to chop those strips into small pieces. The “chopped” aspect is what makes this Delicious Chopped Chicken Beef Bacon Ranch Sub so special, so take your time with this step.
Crisping Up the Bacon:

I find that baking bacon is the easiest and cleanest way to get perfectly crisp strips. Lay the thick-cut bacon strips on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil (for easy cleanup). Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until it reaches your desired level of crispness. Alternatively, you can pan-fry the bacon over medium heat, turning occasionally, until it’s golden brown and crispy. Once cooked, transfer the bacon to a plate lined with paper towels to drain off any excess grease. Once it’s cool enough to handle but still warm, crumble or chop it into small pieces. You want distinct pieces of bacon in every bite of your Delicious Chopped Chicken Beef Bacon Ranch Sub, so don’t chop it too finely that it disappears, but not so large it’s hard to bite.
Chopping the Cheese:

If you’re using sliced provolone, stack the slices and chop them into small squares or strips. If you have a block of cheese, shred it using a box grater. Pre-shredded cheese is, of course, a convenient option as well. I often combine provolone with a little Monterey Jack for extra creaminess and flavor complexity in my Delicious Chopped Chicken Beef Bacon Ranch Sub.

Prepping the Fresh Vegetables for Your Delicious Chopped Chicken Beef Bacon Ranch Sub

Preparing the Lettuce:

Wash your head of iceberg or Romaine lettuce thoroughly under cold running water. Shake off excess water or use a salad spinner to get it as dry as possible. This is important because any extra moisture can make your sub soggy. Once dry, finely shred or chop the lettuce into small, manageable pieces. I like a finer shred for a chopped sub because it integrates better with the other ingredients, creating a more cohesive texture when you bite into your Delicious Chopped Chicken Beef Bacon Ranch Sub.
Slicing the Tomatoes:

Wash your Roma tomatoes and slice them very thinly. If you prefer, you can dice them into small cubes instead. Roma tomatoes tend to have less water content, which helps prevent a watery sub. Arrange them on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any extra moisture.
Preparing the Red Onion:

Peel and very thinly slice the red onion. For an even milder onion flavor, you can place the sliced onions in a small bowl of ice water for 10-15 minutes, then drain and pat dry. This technique helps to remove some of the raw onion’s pungency, making it more palatable for those who are sensitive to its strong taste. Alternatively, if you prefer, you can finely dice the onion to ensure it blends seamlessly into the chopped mixture of your Delicious Chopped Chicken Beef Bacon Ranch Sub.
Chopping the Pickles:

If you’re using dill pickle spears, chop them into small, bite-sized pieces. If you have pickle chips, a quick chop will suffice. Pickles add a fantastic tangy crunch that really brightens up the rich flavors of the chicken, beef, and bacon in this Delicious Chopped Chicken Beef Bacon Ranch Sub.

Crafting the Heart of Your Delicious Chopped Chicken Beef Bacon Ranch Sub

Combining the Chopped Goodness:

In a large mixing bowl, combine all your meticulously chopped chicken, beef, bacon, and cheese. This is where the magic really starts to happen! Make sure the bowl is large enough to allow for thorough mixing without spilling.
Adding the Ranch Dressing:

Pour in about three-quarters of a cup of your creamy ranch dressing. I always recommend starting with a bit less and adding more as needed. You want the mixture to be well-coated and moist, but not soupy. The ranch dressing acts as the binding agent and the primary flavor profile for this incredible Delicious Chopped Chicken Beef Bacon Ranch Sub.
Seasoning and Mixing:

Season the mixture with a pinch of salt and a generous grind of fresh black pepper. If you like, you can also add a tiny dash more garlic powder or onion powder to enhance the savory notes. Now, with a large spoon or even your clean hands (which I find works best for this kind of mixture), thoroughly mix all the ingredients together. You want everything to be evenly distributed and coated in that luscious ranch dressing. Every piece of chicken, beef, bacon, and cheese should be integrated into a cohesive, flavorful filling. Taste a small bit of the mixture at this point and adjust seasoning or add more ranch dressing if desired. This is your chance to customize the flavor exactly to your liking before it goes into the sub roll. This careful mixing is what truly defines a “chopped sub” and ensures a burst of flavor with every single bite of your Delicious Chopped Chicken Beef Bacon Ranch Sub.

Perfecting Your Sub Rolls

Preparing the Rolls:

Take each submarine roll and carefully slice it lengthwise, almost all the way through, but leave one side attached like a hinge. This creates a pocket for your filling and prevents the sub from falling apart. If your rolls feel a bit dense, you can gently pull out a little bit of the soft bread from the interior, creating more room for your delicious filling. This step is optional but can make a big difference in the bread-to-filling ratio.
Toasting for Texture:

Now, for that perfect crunch and warmth! You have a few options:
- Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly brush the inside surfaces of your opened rolls with a tiny bit of olive oil or melted butter. Place them cut-side up directly on the oven rack or on a baking sheet. Bake for 3-5 minutes, or until they are lightly golden and slightly crispy at the edges. Be careful not to over-toast, as you want them warm and inviting, not hard.
- Broiler Method: This is a faster option but requires vigilance. Brush with olive oil/butter, place cut-side up under the broiler for 1-2 minutes, watching constantly, until just golden. They can burn very quickly!
- Skillet Method: If you’re only making one or two subs, you can toast them in a dry skillet over medium heat, cut-side down, until lightly browned. This gives a lovely char.
Toasting your rolls adds a crucial textural element to your Delicious Chopped Chicken Beef Bacon Ranch Sub, providing a delightful contrast to the soft, creamy filling and preventing the bread from getting soggy too quickly. It also warms the bread, releasing its delicious aroma.

Assembling Your Delicious Chopped Chicken Beef Bacon Ranch Sub

Loading Up the Filling:

Once your rolls are perfectly toasted and warm, it’s time for the grand finale! Generously spoon the prepared chopped chicken, beef, bacon, and cheese mixture into each sub roll. Don’t be shy here; this is a hearty sub! I like to really pack it in, ensuring that the filling extends from end to end. Use the back of your spoon or your fingers to gently press the filling down and spread it evenly within the roll. The goal is a substantial, satisfying sandwich that showcases the density of your Delicious Chopped Chicken Beef Bacon Ranch Sub.
Adding the Freshness:

Now, for the layers of fresh vegetables that provide crunch, acidity, and a vibrant contrast. Arrange your finely shredded lettuce, thin tomato slices (or diced tomatoes), thinly sliced red onion, and chopped pickles on top of the chopped meat and cheese filling. You can layer them individually or lightly mix them together before adding. I usually place the lettuce first as a bed, then the tomatoes, onions, and finally the pickles. This creates a beautiful visual appeal and ensures that you get a burst of fresh flavor with every bite of your Delicious Chopped Chicken Beef Bacon Ranch Sub.
Optional Drizzle and Final Touches:

If you’re a ranch enthusiast like me, you might want to add a light drizzle of extra ranch dressing over the fresh vegetables before closing the sub. This adds another layer of creaminess and flavor. Carefully close the sub roll, gently pressing down to compact the ingredients. The bread should be soft enough to accommodate the generous filling without tearing.
Serving Your Masterpiece:

To make it easier to eat, especially for a large sub, I highly recommend slicing each Delicious Chopped Chicken Beef Bacon Ranch Sub in half, either straight across or on a diagonal. This makes for a more manageable serving and is perfect for sharing or individual portions. Serve your incredible creation immediately, while the bread is still warm and the filling is at its prime. This sub is best enjoyed fresh, when all the textures are at their best. It’s truly a complete meal in itself, perfect for a hearty lunch, a satisfying dinner, or even as a standout offering at a casual get-together.

Conclusion:

Well, my friends, we’ve reached the exciting end of our culinary journey, and I genuinely hope you’re feeling as inspired as I am to whip up this incredible creation. What truly sets this recipe apart, making it an absolute must-try, is its unparalleled blend of robust flavors and satisfying textures. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience, a symphony of savory notes that dance on your palate with every single bite. The magic truly lies in the combination: the tender, perfectly cooked chicken, the rich, deeply flavorful beef, the irresistible crispness of the bacon, and that signature creamy, tangy ranch dressing that ties everything together into a harmonious masterpiece. We’re talking about a dish that manages to be both incredibly comforting and excitingly fresh all at once. It’s the kind of recipe that will have everyone at your table asking for seconds, and probably for the recipe too! Imagine the delightful surprise when they discover how straightforward it is to prepare such a phenomenal dish.

This isn’t just another sub; it’s a game-changer for your lunch or dinner rotation. It’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you crave something substantial and delicious but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen. It’s also an absolute showstopper for gatherings, potlucks, or game day parties. Trust me, once you experience the sheer joy of biting into this concoction, you’ll understand exactly what I mean. The chopping of the ingredients ensures that every forkful (or bite, if you’re brave enough to tackle it like a traditional sub!) delivers that perfect melange of flavors – no single ingredient gets left behind. That consistent flavor profile is key to its widespread appeal and why I’m so passionate about sharing it with you all. It truly elevates the humble sandwich concept to an art form, making it much more substantial and satisfying than your average deli offering.

Serving Suggestions and Delicious Variations to Explore

Now, while this recipe is utterly phenomenal as described, one of its greatest strengths is its incredible versatility. Let’s talk about how you can serve this up to truly impress, or how you can tweak it to suit your personal tastes or dietary needs. Of course, serving it on a freshly baked, crusty sub roll is the classic way to enjoy it, allowing you to fully appreciate its “sub” identity. For a lighter option, or if you’re looking to cut down on carbs, it makes an absolutely fantastic salad topper. Pile a generous scoop onto a bed of crisp romaine, mixed greens, or even some fresh spinach. Drizzle with a little extra ranch or a light vinaigrette, and you have a completely new, yet equally satisfying, meal.

Thinking outside the sub roll, consider serving this incredible mixture as a flavorful filling for lettuce wraps – crunchy, fresh, and delightfully messy in the best possible way. It also works beautifully as a hearty protein bowl, perhaps alongside some roasted vegetables like bell peppers and onions, or even a scoop of fluffy rice or quinoa. For a fun appetizer, you could spoon smaller portions onto toasted baguette slices or sturdy crackers for bite-sized delights. Imagine the delight of your guests at a party, popping these savory morsels into their mouths! Another creative idea? Use it as a filling for bell pepper halves, baked until tender, for a vibrant and nutrient-rich main course. The possibilities truly are endless, and I encourage you to get creative with your serving choices!

Get Creative: Explore These Tasty Twists!

And when it comes to variations, don’t be afraid to put your own spin on it. For those who love a little heat, a dash of hot sauce in the ranch dressing or some finely diced jalapeños mixed into the chop would add a fantastic kick. If you’re a cheese lover (and who isn’t?), consider mixing in some shredded cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even a smoky Gouda directly into the chopped mixture. A sprinkle of fresh chives or green onions on top just before serving adds a lovely fresh oniony note and a pop of color. For a different texture, you could try adding some finely diced celery for an extra crunch, or even some corn kernels for a touch of sweetness.

Dietary adjustments? Absolutely! If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, there are excellent plant-based ranch dressings available that work wonderfully. For a gluten-free meal, simply serve it as a salad, in lettuce wraps, or over gluten-free bread. You could also experiment with different types of bacon – turkey bacon works well for a leaner option, or even a plant-based bacon substitute for a vegetarian-friendly twist (though then it wouldn’t be the exact “beef bacon” experience, of course!). The core concept of a flavorful, chopped mix is so adaptable, allowing you to tailor it perfectly to your preferences.

So, what are you waiting for? I wholeheartedly encourage you to carve out some time in your kitchen this week and give this recipe a try. I promise you won’t regret it. The satisfaction of creating something so utterly delicious, so perfectly balanced in flavor and texture, is truly rewarding. Once you’ve experienced the magic for yourself, once you’ve savored every mouthful of this Delicious Chopped Chicken Beef Bacon Ranch Sub, I would absolutely love to hear about your experience. Did you stick to the classic sub roll, or did you venture into the world of salads or lettuce wraps? Did you add any of your own creative twists? Please don’t hesitate to share your thoughts, your photos, and your triumphs in the comments section below, or on your favorite social media platforms. Your feedback is incredibly valuable, and it’s wonderful to see how everyone makes a recipe their own. Let’s make this a staple in kitchens everywhere! Happy cooking, and enjoy every amazing bite!