Description
South Carolina Bird Dog Sandwiches are a flavorful and satisfying grilled chicken sandwich featuring juicy grilled chicken breasts, creamy pimento cheese, crispy bacon, tangy pickled jalapeños, and fresh arugula, all layered on toasted hoagie rolls. This recipe combines smoky, spicy, and fresh elements for a delicious southern-inspired meal perfect for lunch or dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Seasoning
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Fillings
- 1 cup pimento cheese (store-bought or homemade)
- 4 slices crispy bacon
- 2 pickled jalapeños, sliced
- 1 cup fresh arugula
Bread and Extras
- 2 hoagie rolls
- Optional: hot sauce for serving
Instructions
- Prepare and season chicken: Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium heat. Brush the chicken breasts with olive oil and season them generously with salt and pepper to ensure flavorful grilled meat.
- Grill the chicken: Place the chicken breasts on the grill and cook for 6-7 minutes per side until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Remove the chicken and let it rest a few minutes to retain juices before slicing.
- Cook bacon: While the chicken rests, cook bacon slices in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Transfer cooked bacon to paper towels to absorb excess grease and maintain crispiness.
- Toast the hoagie rolls: Slice the hoagie rolls in half lengthwise and toast them on the grill or in a toaster until golden brown for added texture and flavor.
- Assemble sandwiches: Spread a generous layer of pimento cheese on the bottom half of each toasted hoagie roll. Layer sliced grilled chicken breast, crispy bacon, and pickled jalapeños evenly on top. Add fresh arugula as the final topping.
- Finish and serve: Place the top half of the hoagie roll over the sandwich fillings, press gently to combine, and drizzle with hot sauce if desired. Serve immediately for a delicious, warm sandwich experience.
Notes
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken is safely cooked to 165°F (75°C).
- Substitute turkey bacon for a leaner option.
- Adjust jalapeño slices to control spice level.
- Pimento cheese can be homemade or store-bought based on convenience.
- Toast the rolls just before assembling to prevent sogginess.
