The Low Carb Chicken Club Sandwich is the perfect option for those looking to enjoy a delicious, filling sandwich without the carbs. With the classic flavors of a club sandwich, but with a healthy twist, this recipe uses lettuce leaves in place of traditional bread to create a keto-friendly and gluten-free version of the beloved club sandwich. Whether you’re on a low-carb diet, following keto, or simply looking for a healthier alternative, this sandwich is a satisfying and easy meal to whip up.
What Makes the Low Carb Chicken Club Sandwich Special?
Traditional club sandwiches are delicious but can be high in carbs, mainly due to the bread used. The Low Carb Chicken Club Sandwich solves this issue by replacing bread with fresh, crunchy lettuce leaves. The result is a low-carb, nutrient-packed meal that doesn’t compromise on flavor.
The beauty of this sandwich lies in its versatility. You can swap ingredients depending on your preferences or dietary needs. Whether you’re using leftover rotisserie chicken or a freshly cooked chicken breast, the sandwich remains satisfying and delicious.
Ingredients for Low Carb Chicken Club Sandwich
For a great Low Carb Chicken Club Sandwich, you don’t need many ingredients. Simplicity is key here, as the fresh, flavorful components really shine. Here’s what you’ll need:
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Lettuce leaves: Iceberg lettuce is a great choice because of its crunchiness and neutral flavor.
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Chicken breast: Rotisserie chicken works wonderfully here, but you can also use grilled or baked chicken breast.
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Bacon: Crispy bacon adds that smoky flavor, making the sandwich feel indulgent.
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Ham: Deli-style ham is a great addition to round out the protein in the sandwich.
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Cheese: A slice of cheddar cheese adds creaminess and sharp flavor.
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Tomatoes: Tomatoes are optional but can add a juicy, fresh element to your sandwich.
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Mayonnaise: Use plenty of mayo for added creaminess and flavor.
These ingredients come together to make the sandwich both filling and flavorful, all while keeping the carb count low. You can even tweak the ingredients based on your preferences—swap the ham for turkey or leave out the tomatoes for an even lower-carb version.
How to Make the Low Carb Chicken Club Sandwich
Making the Low Carb Chicken Club Sandwich is easy, and it can be assembled in a few simple steps. The lettuce wraps replace bread, so you get all the flavors of a traditional club sandwich but with a fresh, healthier twist. Here’s how to put it all together:
Step 1: Cook the Bacon and Warm the Chicken
Start by cooking the bacon until it’s extra crispy. Set it aside to cool. If you’re using cooked chicken, warm it up slightly to make it more tender and easier to assemble.
Step 2: Prepare the Lettuce Wraps
Take 6 large iceberg lettuce leaves. Cut them into square shapes that will act as the sandwich “bread.” You can use scissors to cut them neatly, ensuring each piece is large enough to hold the fillings. Lay 2 of the lettuce leaves flat on a plate.
Step 3: Layer the Ingredients
Spread half of the mayonnaise onto the lettuce leaves. Then layer the ham, chicken, and cheese on top of the mayo. Cover the layers with 2 more lettuce leaves. Spread the other half of the mayo on top.
Step 4: Add the Toppings
Place tomato slices and crispy bacon on top of the layers. Finally, cover with the last 2 lettuce leaves to complete your sandwich.
Step 5: Skewer and Slice
Use toothpicks or skewers to secure the sandwich in place. Slice the sandwich into 4 smaller sections by cutting it corner to corner. This makes it easier to eat and adds a fun presentation.
Tips for Making the Best Low Carb Chicken Club Sandwich
To make your Low Carb Chicken Club Sandwich the best it can be, here are a few tips to keep in mind:
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Lettuce Choice: While iceberg lettuce is great for its crunch, feel free to experiment with romaine or butter lettuce if you prefer a softer texture.
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Protein Swap: You can swap the chicken for turkey or other deli meats if you prefer. Grilled chicken or even shredded chicken can also work well in this sandwich.
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Use Avocado: If you want to add some healthy fats, consider adding avocado slices to your sandwich. They’ll add a creamy texture that pairs perfectly with the crispy bacon.
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Low-Calorie Version: For an even lighter version, you can skip the cheese and ham to cut down on both calories and carbs.
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Wrap for Convenience: If you need a portable option, wrap the sandwich in parchment paper or waxed paper to keep it neat and easy to take on the go.
Variations of Low Carb Chicken Club Sandwich
The Low Carb Chicken Club Sandwich is incredibly versatile. You can customize it based on what you have in the kitchen or your dietary needs. Here are some variations:
1. Caprese Chicken Club Sandwich
For a fresh twist, add some basil leaves and mozzarella to your sandwich. Swap out the cheddar for fresh mozzarella and add sliced tomatoes for a Caprese-inspired version.
2. Spicy Chicken Club Sandwich
If you like a little kick, add jalapeños or hot sauce to the sandwich. You could also add a spicy mayo or use sriracha for extra flavor.
3. Avocado Chicken Club Sandwich
For extra creaminess and a boost of healthy fats, add avocado slices to your sandwich. The buttery texture of avocado pairs beautifully with the crisp bacon and juicy chicken.
4. Turkey Low Carb Club Sandwich
Swap out the chicken for turkey breast for a slightly different take on the classic club sandwich. Turkey adds a slightly milder flavor and works well with the other ingredients.
Nutritional Benefits of the Low Carb Chicken Club Sandwich
The Low Carb Chicken Club Sandwich not only satisfies your hunger but also provides several nutritional benefits. By swapping out bread for lettuce, this sandwich offers a lower-carb option that’s still packed with protein, healthy fats, and essential nutrients. Here’s a breakdown of some key health benefits:
High in Protein
The chicken breast, bacon, and deli ham provide a significant amount of protein, which is essential for muscle repair, immune function, and overall body health. This makes the sandwich an excellent choice for anyone looking to increase their protein intake, whether for weight management or muscle building.
Low in Carbs
By using lettuce as the sandwich “bread,” the Low Carb Chicken Club Sandwich significantly reduces the number of carbs. This makes it a great option for those following a keto or low-carb diet. The sandwich provides all the flavors and satisfaction of a regular club sandwich without the blood sugar spikes associated with traditional bread.
Packed with Healthy Fats
The inclusion of bacon and mayonnaise provides healthy fats, particularly monounsaturated fats from the olive oil-based mayo and the natural fats in bacon. These fats are essential for brain health, hormone production, and the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins like A, D, E, and K.
Rich in Vitamins and Minerals
The sandwich’s lettuce and tomatoes offer a wealth of vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin A, vitamin C, potassium, and folate. Lettuce, especially iceberg, is rich in water content, which helps with hydration, while tomatoes provide antioxidants like lycopene that are great for heart health.
Gluten-Free and Dairy-Free Options
This sandwich is naturally gluten-free, making it an ideal choice for anyone with gluten sensitivity or celiac disease. Additionally, if you prefer a dairy-free option, you can skip the cheese and opt for dairy-free mayo to create a completely dairy-free Low Carb Chicken Club Sandwich.
How to Customize Your Low Carb Chicken Club Sandwich
One of the best things about the Low Carb Chicken Club Sandwich is how easily it can be customized to suit various dietary needs and preferences. Whether you want to lower the calorie count, switch up the flavors, or add some extra protein, here are some customization ideas:
1. Add Extra Veggies for More Nutrients
If you’re looking to pack in more vegetables, feel free to add extras like avocado, cucumber slices, or even red onion. These additions bring extra fiber, vitamins, and minerals, while keeping the carb count low. Plus, they’ll add a refreshing crunch and taste to the sandwich.
2. Make It Spicy
For those who like a little heat, try adding sliced jalapeños or a spicy chipotle mayo. The heat from the peppers can elevate the flavor and add a kick to your sandwich.
3. Low-Calorie Option
To make a lower-calorie version of the Low Carb Chicken Club Sandwich, simply skip the cheese and reduce the amount of mayo. You can also use lean turkey breast instead of chicken for a leaner option. This will cut down on both calories and fat.
4. Use Different Lettuce Varieties
Although iceberg lettuce works best for its crunch, feel free to try other varieties of lettuce like romaine, butter lettuce, or even spinach. Each type of lettuce offers a slightly different texture and flavor profile, so experiment to find what works best for your taste.
5. Add More Protein
If you want to increase the protein content even further, add an extra serving of grilled chicken or boiled eggs. Eggs are a great addition, providing not only more protein but also healthy fats and essential vitamins.
Meal Prep and Storage for Low Carb Chicken Club Sandwich
The Low Carb Chicken Club Sandwich is an excellent choice for meal prep. It stores well and can be easily packed for lunch or dinner throughout the week. Here’s how to prep and store your sandwiches:
Preparing in Advance
You can make the sandwich a few hours ahead or even the night before. Simply assemble the sandwich without the tomatoes or bacon, as these ingredients can make the lettuce soggy. Store the sandwich in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to eat, add fresh tomato slices and crispy bacon.
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store them separately to keep the ingredients fresh. The chicken, cheese, and bacon can be stored in one container, while the lettuce and tomatoes can go into another. This will keep the lettuce from wilting, and you can easily assemble the sandwich when you’re ready to enjoy it.
Freezing the Sandwich
While lettuce doesn’t freeze well, you can freeze the cooked chicken, bacon, and ham portions separately for a quick grab-and-go option later. Reheat them when you’re ready to assemble your sandwich, and add fresh lettuce and toppings for a delicious, fresh meal.
Serving Suggestions for Low Carb Chicken Club Sandwich
Though the Low Carb Chicken Club Sandwich is hearty and satisfying on its own, you might want to pair it with some side dishes for a complete meal. Here are some ideas:
1. Low Carb Salad
Pair your sandwich with a refreshing green salad or a Mediterranean cucumber salad. These options are light and fresh, and they complement the richness of the sandwich without adding many extra carbs.
2. Roasted Veggies
Serve the sandwich with roasted vegetables like cauliflower, zucchini, or broccoli. These low-carb veggies add extra fiber, vitamins, and minerals while providing a filling side to your meal.
3. Low Carb Chips
If you’re craving a little crunch, try pairing your sandwich with keto-friendly chips. These can be found in stores, or you can make your own by baking thin slices of zucchini or eggplant with olive oil and seasoning.
Why the Low Carb Chicken Club Sandwich is Perfect for Your Diet
The Low Carb Chicken Club Sandwich is more than just a delicious meal—it’s an excellent choice for those following a variety of diets, including keto, gluten-free, paleo, or low-carb diets. Here’s why it’s perfect for your diet plan:
1. Keto-Friendly
For those on a keto diet, the Low Carb Chicken Club Sandwich is an excellent choice. Traditional sandwiches are packed with carbs, but by swapping bread with lettuce, you significantly reduce the carb content, keeping it well within the acceptable limits of a low-carb or keto-friendly meal. This makes it a satisfying lunch or dinner that won’t kick you out of ketosis.
2. Gluten-Free
Since this sandwich uses lettuce as the wrap instead of bread, it’s completely gluten-free. This makes it a great option for those with gluten intolerance or celiac disease. You won’t have to worry about cross-contamination or dealing with gluten-filled bread.
3. Low-Calorie and High Protein
With its lean protein from chicken and bacon, along with the healthy fats from mayo and cheese, this sandwich is not only filling but also supports muscle recovery and sustained energy. You can easily make it a low-calorie meal by adjusting the cheese and mayo, making it versatile depending on your dietary goals.
4. Packed with Nutrients
Aside from being low in carbs, the Low Carb Chicken Club Sandwich is also rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants from fresh veggies like lettuce and tomatoes. These contribute to overall well-being and help you stay energized throughout the day.
Why You Should Try the Low Carb Chicken Club Sandwich
If you’re tired of the same old sandwiches but want something low-carb, high-protein, and incredibly tasty, the Low Carb Chicken Club Sandwich is the way to go. Not only does it taste great, but it also fits perfectly into your healthy eating plan without compromising on flavor. Whether you’re trying to cut back on carbs or following a keto lifestyle, this recipe offers a satisfying meal with all the classic elements of a club sandwich—just without the carbs.
You can prepare it ahead of time for a quick lunch, dinner, or even for meal prep. And if you want to switch things up, there are endless ways to customize it to your liking. Add more veggies, use different proteins, or switch up the sauces to make it your own.
This Low Carb Chicken Club Sandwich is quick, customizable, and sure to become a favorite in your low-carb recipe collection. Plus, it’s perfect for anyone looking for a satisfying meal that won’t derail their healthy eating habits. Give it a try today, and you’ll be hooked!
Low Carb Chicken Club Sandwich
Ingredients:
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6 large Iceberg lettuce leaves (or any lettuce of choice)
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6 oz cooked Chicken breast (rotisserie chicken works great)
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4 slices crispy Bacon
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4 oz Deli ham
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2 slices Cheddar cheese (or cheese of your choice)
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4 slices Tomatoes (optional)
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2 tbsp Mayonnaise (adjust for taste)
Instructions:
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Prepare the Ingredients: Cook the bacon until crispy. Warm up the cooked chicken if needed. Cut the lettuce leaves into square shapes using scissors to create the sandwich “bread”.
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Assemble the Sandwich: Place 2 lettuce leaves on a plate and spread half of the mayonnaise on them. Layer the ham, chicken, and cheese on top. Cover with 2 more lettuce leaves and spread the remaining mayonnaise on top.
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Add the Toppings: Place tomato slices and crispy bacon on top. Finish by covering with the last 2 lettuce leaves to complete your sandwich.
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Secure and Slice: Use toothpicks or skewers to hold the sandwich together. Slice into 4 small portions by cutting diagonally across the sandwich.
Notes:
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Protein Swap: Swap chicken for turkey or other deli meats as preferred.
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Low-Calorie Version: Skip the cheese and ham to reduce calories and carbs further.
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Storage: Prepare in advance by storing the sandwich components separately. Assemble fresh before eating.
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Make Ahead: This sandwich can be prepped and stored in the fridge for 1-2 days. For a less messy to-go option, wrap it in parchment paper or waxed paper before slicing.
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving):
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Calories: 400 kcal
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Carbohydrates: 6.2g
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Protein: 39g
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Fat: 24.3g
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Fiber: 0.9g
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Sugar: 2g
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Cholesterol: 50mg
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Sodium: 600mg
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Potassium: 540mg
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Vitamin A: 600 IU
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Vitamin C: 6mg
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Calcium: 300mg
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Iron: 2mg
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Method: Assemble
Cuisine: American
Servings: 2 servings
Calories: 400 kcal
Yield: 4 small sandwiches
