Do Share Recipe

Chick Fil A Grilled Chicken Club Recipe | Copycat Sandwich

When I first made this chick fil a grilled chicken club recipe, I couldn’t believe how close it tasted to the one from Chick-fil-A — but somehow even better at home. I marinated the chicken in a surprising mix of pickle juice and milk, then grilled it until juicy and tender. Stacked it with bacon, fresh tomato slices, crisp lettuce, and melty cheese on a multigrain bun, then drizzled on the honey-roasted BBQ sauce.

It turned into a go-to for lunch or dinner for me and my family. I love that it feels like a “fast-food treat” yet is homemade.If you enjoy creative chicken recipes, you might also like this one-pan cheesy jalapeno chicken recipe for a spicy twist. I’ll show you all the ingredients, steps, tips, and ways to make it your own.

Ingredients

Here are the ingredients I used—each with a measurement and a little tip on why it matters:

For the chicken:

2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts – Cut them in half so they grill evenly.
½ cup dill pickle juice – This adds that tangy “Chick-fil-A-style” flavor to the marinade.
¼ cup whole milk – Helps tenderize the chicken and adds a subtle creaminess.
1 tablespoon powdered sugar – A touch of sweetness balances the tang and caramelizes the surface.
1 teaspoon garlic powder – Adds savory depth.
1 teaspoon onion powder – Complements the garlic and builds a flavor base.
1 teaspoon black pepper – For mild heat and balance.
1 teaspoon kosher salt – Ensures the chicken is seasoned throughout.
¼ teaspoon smoked paprika – Brings a smoky nuance for that grilled taste.

For the sandwiches:

4 slices pepper jack or Colby Jack cheese – Both melt beautifully and bring a creamy, slightly spicy note.
4 multigrain buns – Adds texture and a wholesome touch.
Green leaf lettuce – Fresh and crisp for contrast.
Beefsteak tomato slices – Adds juicy brightness.
4 slices thick-cut applewood smoked bacon, cooked crispy – Smoky, salty crunch that makes the sandwich irresistible.
Honey-roasted BBQ sauce – The signature sweet and tangy finishing touch.

Note: Several servings based on the above ingredients.

Variations

Want to tweak this recipe to suit your preferences? Here are some great ideas:

Dairy-free: Replace whole milk with unsweetened almond or oat milk. Use dairy-free cheese or skip the cheese entirely.
Sugar-free: Substitute the powdered sugar with a no-calorie sweetener like monk fruit or erythritol. Use sugar-free BBQ sauce.
Extra flavor add-ins: Add a pinch of cayenne for heat, or smoked sea salt for deeper smokiness. Try swapping the multigrain bun for a gluten-free option if needed.
Lighter version: Use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon, and a lettuce wrap in place of the bun for a low-carb twist.

If you enjoy pasta-style chicken dishes, this chicken penne pasta recipe is another great option to explore for family meals.

Cooking Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes (not including marinating)
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: Up to 4 hours 30 minutes (including marinade time)

Equipment You Need

Digital food thermometer – To ensure chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature.
Grill (gas or charcoal) – For smoky flavor and char marks.
Mixing bowl – To combine marinade ingredients.
Measuring cups and spoons – For accuracy.
Knife & cutting board – For prepping chicken and vegetables.
Tongs – To flip the chicken easily on the grill.

How to Make Chick-fil-A Grilled Chicken Club Recipe

Prepare the Chicken and Marinade

Slice each chicken breast in half lengthwise to make thinner pieces for even cooking. In a bowl, mix pickle juice, milk, powdered sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt, and smoked paprika. Add chicken and coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 4 hours.

Make the Honey-Roasted BBQ Sauce

While the chicken marinates, combine mayonnaise, sweet BBQ sauce, honey, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and a pinch of smoked paprika in a small bowl. Refrigerate until ready to use. You can use a store-bought version if you prefer.

Grill the Chicken

Preheat the grill to medium heat. Remove chicken from the marinade and place on the grill. Cook for about 6–8 minutes per side, flipping occasionally, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Once cooked, place a slice of cheese on each piece of chicken and allow it to melt slightly from the residual heat.

Assemble the Sandwiches

Toast the multigrain buns lightly on the grill if desired. On the bottom half of each bun, layer lettuce and tomato, then place the grilled chicken with melted cheese. Add the crispy bacon, drizzle with honey-roasted BBQ sauce, and top with the remaining bun. Serve warm and enjoy!

Additional Tips for Making This Recipe Better

From my own experience, these little details take the sandwich from good to great:

I pat the chicken dry before slicing so the marinade sticks better.
I let the chicken rest for 5 minutes after grilling to keep it juicy.
I crisp the bacon in advance and keep it warm in the oven to stay crunchy.
Toasting the buns briefly on the grill adds smoky flavor and prevents sogginess.
If short on time, a 30-minute marinade still gives great flavor, but for the best results, go for 2–4 hours.

How to Serve Chick-fil-A Grilled Chicken Club Recipe

Presentation makes all the difference! Slice each sandwich diagonally to show off the colorful layers of cheese, bacon, and tomato. Garnish with a few pickle slices or serve with extra honey-roasted BBQ sauce on the side. I love pairing mine with sweet potato fries, waffle fries, or a light salad. Serve on a wooden board or bright plate to make it look extra appetizing.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick look at the estimated nutrition per serving:

Calories: 294
Protein: 22 g
Carbohydrates: 28 g
Fat: 10 g

(Note: Nutritional values can vary depending on brands and portion sizes.)

Make Ahead and Storage

Refrigerating Leftovers

Store extra grilled chicken pieces (without buns or toppings) in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave until warmed through.

Freezing

Freeze cooked chicken pieces separately for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat before assembling.

Reheating Tips

For best results, reheat the chicken in an oven or air fryer to maintain its texture. Lightly toast buns before assembling for that just-made freshness.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here’s why this Chick-fil-A Grilled Chicken Club deserves a spot in your weekly rotation:

Easy and flavorful: Simple pantry ingredients create that signature restaurant-style taste.
Versatile: Easily adapt it for dietary needs—dairy-free, low-carb, or gluten-free.
Homemade quality: You control the ingredients, ensuring it’s fresh and wholesome.
Customizable: Adjust cheese, sauce, or spice levels to suit your taste.
Family favorite: It’s hearty, satisfying, and crowd-pleasing for all ages.

Making this Chick-fil-A Grilled Chicken Club at home truly feels rewarding. You get the same tender, smoky chicken, melty cheese, and crisp bacon—but without leaving your kitchen. Once you try it, it’ll definitely become a regular in your meal rotation!

Ben Carraoli