If you’re craving a sandwich that’s both indulgent and satisfying, the Chopped Chicken Bacon Ranch Sub is exactly what you need. Combining tender chopped chicken, crispy bacon, fresh veggies, and creamy ranch dressing inside a soft sub roll, this sandwich is perfect for lunch, dinner, or casual gatherings.

Its flavor balance—savory, smoky, creamy, and slightly tangy—makes it a standout among classic deli sandwiches. Plus, it’s customizable, so you can adjust toppings and sauces according to your taste.

History and Inspiration

Subs, or submarine sandwiches, originated in the United States as a convenient, handheld meal that could be loaded with a variety of ingredients. The chicken bacon ranch combination is a modern twist inspired by popular salads and wraps, bringing together proteins, vegetables, and creamy dressing in a fun, portable way.

By chopping the chicken and layering it with crispy bacon, this sandwich has the perfect bite in every mouthful, reminiscent of both a hearty sub and a flavorful salad.

Ingredients

For the Sub Filling

2 cups cooked chicken, chopped or shredded
6 slices bacon, cooked until crispy and chopped
1 cup lettuce, shredded
1 medium tomato, diced
½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
½ cup ranch dressing
1 teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper, to taste

For Assembly

4 soft sub rolls
Butter or olive oil for toasting (optional)

Instructions

Prepare Chicken Filling
In a medium bowl, combine chopped chicken, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until chicken is well seasoned.
Add Bacon and Dressing
Fold in chopped crispy bacon and ranch dressing until evenly coated.
Toast Sub Rolls (Optional)
Slice sub rolls in half and toast lightly with a thin layer of butter or olive oil for extra flavor and crunch.
Assemble Sub
Layer shredded lettuce on the bottom of each roll, followed by diced tomatoes. Spoon the chicken and bacon mixture on top. Sprinkle shredded cheese if using.
Finish and Serve
Place the top half of the sub on each sandwich, press lightly, and serve immediately.
Optional Serving Ideas
Cut sandwiches in halves for easier handling, and serve with pickles, potato chips, or a small side salad.

Sensory Description

Appearance: Colorful layers of white chicken, golden-brown bacon, green lettuce, red tomato, and creamy ranch inside a soft golden-brown sub roll.
Texture: Crunchy bacon, tender chicken, crisp lettuce, soft sub bread, and creamy dressing.
Aroma: Savory chicken, smoky bacon, and fresh vegetables with the aroma of garlic and paprika.
Taste: A perfect balance of smoky, creamy, fresh, and slightly tangy flavors in every bite.

Tips for Success

Use rotisserie chicken for quick prep.
Cook bacon until crispy for maximum texture contrast.
Customize the sandwich with avocado, red onion, or pickles.
Warm the sub rolls slightly to enhance flavor.
For meal prep, prepare filling ahead and assemble sandwiches before serving.

Variations

Buffalo Chicken Sub: Mix chicken with buffalo sauce instead of ranch.
Ranch Veggie Loaded: Add cucumber, bell pepper, or shredded carrots for extra crunch.
Cheesy Ranch Sub: Melt provolone or mozzarella over chicken filling.
Low-Carb Version: Use lettuce wraps instead of sub rolls for a keto-friendly option.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with potato chips, French fries, or sweet potato fries.
Pair with a cold soda, lemonade, or iced tea for a casual meal.
Great for picnics, game nights, or casual family dinners.
Leftover chicken mixture can also be used in wraps, salads, or quesadillas.