Chopped chicken beef brisket ranch

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Introduction

There’s something magical about a hearty sandwich packed with layers of flavor and textures. This Chopped Chicken & Beef Brisket Ranch Sub is everything you want in a meal: smoky, savory, creamy, and downright satisfying. Imagine tender, juicy chunks of chicken and beef brisket nestled into a soft sub roll, drizzled with a tangy homemade ranch dressing, and topped with crisp lettuce, tomatoes, and a sprinkle of sharp cheddar cheese. It’s the kind of sub that’s perfect for game day, a quick family dinner, or when you’re craving something indulgent yet homemade.

I first made this recipe when my family was in the mood for something filling but didn’t want another typical burger or taco night. It’s become a weekly favorite ever since! The secret is in the combination of well-seasoned chicken, smoky beef brisket, and the creamy ranch dressing that ties it all together. Trust me, this sub will win over everyone at the table, and you’ll be asked for the recipe more than once!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Packed with flavor: The seasoned chicken and smoky beef brisket bring layers of savory goodness.
• Easy to customize: Add your favorite toppings or switch up the sauce for a twist.
• Quick to make: With pre-cooked brisket and minimal prep, it’s a meal that comes together in under an hour.
• Family-friendly: A hit with kids and adults alike, thanks to its hearty yet approachable flavors.
• Great for meal prep: Double the recipe, and you’ll have delicious subs ready to enjoy all week.

Ingredients

the Protein:

• 2 cups cooked beef brisket, chopped
• 2 medium chicken breasts (about 1 lb), diced
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp onion powder
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp salt

Ranch Sauce:

• ½ cup mayonnaise
• ¼ cup plain yogurt
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 1 tbsp fresh dill, finely chopped
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

Assembly:

• 4 sub rolls or hoagie buns
• 1 cup shredded lettuce
• 1 cup sliced tomatoes
• ½ cup sliced red onions
• ½ cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• Pickled jalapeños (optional)

Step-by-Step

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken

1. Heat a skillet over medium heat and add the olive oil.
2. In a bowl, toss the diced chicken with smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the heat and set aside.

2. Warm the Beef Brisket

1. In the same skillet, add the chopped beef brisket.
2. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until heated through and slightly caramelized around the edges. Remove and set aside.

3. Make the Ranch Sauce

1. In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, yogurt, parsley, dill, garlic powder, onion powder, and lemon juice.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the consistency by adding a teaspoon of water if the sauce is too thick.

4. Toast the Sub Rolls

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Place the sub rolls on a baking sheet and toast for 3-5 minutes until lightly crispy on the outside but still soft inside.

5. Assemble the Subs

1. Spread a generous layer of ranch sauce on the bottom half of each sub roll.
2. Add a layer of shredded lettuce, followed by sliced tomatoes and red onions.
3. Divide the cooked chicken evenly among the subs, followed by the warm beef brisket.
4. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top and add pickled jalapeños if desired.

6. Optional: Heat and Melt

1. For a melted cheese finish, place the assembled subs back in the oven for 3-4 minutes, just until the cheese starts to melt.

How to Serve

This Chopped Chicken & Beef Brisket Ranch Sub is a meal on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a variety of sides and accompaniments that enhance the experience. Here are some tasty ideas for serving:

• Classic Side Dish Pairing:
  • Crispy Fries or Sweet Potato Fries: The perfect crunch to complement the tender filling of the sub. You can even sprinkle the fries with a bit of ranch seasoning for an extra layer of flavor.
  • Potato Chips: For a quick, no-fuss side, a handful of crunchy potato chips on the side will do the trick. Choose your favorite flavor, whether it’s classic, sea salt, or BBQ.
• Light and Refreshing:
  • Fresh Garden Salad: Pair your sub with a vibrant salad made from mixed greens, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette. The freshness of the veggies balances the richness of the sub.
  • Coleslaw: Creamy coleslaw adds a refreshing crunch that contrasts beautifully with the smoky meat and creamy ranch dressing in the sub.
• For a More Hearty Meal:
  • Roasted Vegetables: Roasted vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers are an excellent, wholesome side to go with your sub. Toss the vegetables in olive oil and your favorite seasoning, and roast until caramelized for a satisfying addition to the meal.
  • Garlic Bread: If you’re craving something extra indulgent, garlic bread is always a hit! It’s buttery, garlicky, and pairs perfectly with the flavors of the chicken and beef brisket.

Additional Tips

1. Pre-cooked brisket shortcut: Save time by using store-bought pre-cooked beef brisket or leftovers.
2. Season to taste: Feel free to adjust the seasoning in the chicken and ranch dressing to suit your preference.
3. Make it spicy: Add a drizzle of hot sauce or sprinkle some cayenne pepper into the chicken seasoning.
4. Fresh herbs are key: Using fresh parsley and dill in the ranch dressing elevates the flavor significantly.
5. Toast for texture: Toasting the sub rolls ensures they hold up against the juicy filling without getting soggy.

Recipe Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Swap out the chicken and brisket for grilled mushrooms and roasted chickpeas.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free sub rolls or wrap the filling in lettuce leaves for a low-carb version.
• Cheesy Ranch: Mix shredded cheese directly into the ranch sauce for extra creaminess.
• BBQ Twist: Add a drizzle of your favorite BBQ sauce alongside the ranch for a smoky-sweet flavor.

Freezing and Storage

To Store:

• Store leftover chicken, brisket, and ranch sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Assemble subs fresh when ready to eat for the best texture.

To Freeze:

• Freeze the cooked chicken and brisket in separate freezer-safe bags for up to 2 months.
• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in a skillet before assembling.

FAQ

Can I use store-bought ranch dressing instead of making my own?
Yes, if you’re short on time, store-bought ranch dressing will work just fine! However, making your own ranch adds a fresher, more customizable flavor. You can tweak the seasoning to match your taste, making it richer and creamier. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also experiment with other dressing options like blue cheese or chipotle ranch.

Can I substitute the beef brisket for another meat?
Definitely! If brisket isn’t your thing, you can substitute with pulled pork, shredded rotisserie chicken, or even turkey. These alternatives still provide that hearty, smoky element, making the sub just as satisfying.

How do I prevent the sub rolls from getting soggy?
To keep your sub rolls from getting soggy, try toasting them lightly, as mentioned in the recipe. You can also spread a thin layer of butter or olive oil on the inside of the rolls before toasting to help seal in the crispiness. Also, if you’re preparing this ahead of time, store the meat and ranch sauce separately, assembling the sub just before eating.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can make the chicken and brisket ahead of time and store them in the fridge. You can also prepare the ranch sauce in advance and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just assemble the subs right before serving to maintain freshness. If you need to keep it for longer, you can freeze the chicken and brisket for up to 2 months and reheat when ready to use.

What can I serve with this sub?
This sub pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides! Classic options include crispy fries, sweet potato fries, or potato chips. For a lighter side, try a fresh salad with mixed greens, cucumber, and a light vinaigrette. You can even serve it with a side of roasted vegetables for a more balanced meal.

Can I freeze the assembled subs?
While it’s best to freeze the filling and store the rolls separately, you can freeze the assembled sub sandwiches. Wrap each one tightly in foil or plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, unwrap and place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes until heated through.

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Conclusion

There you have it—the Chopped Chicken & Beef Brisket Ranch Sub is not only easy to make, but it’s also bursting with flavor, texture, and comfort. Whether you’re making it for a busy weeknight or feeding a crowd at a weekend gathering, it’s sure to become a new family favorite. The combination of tender chicken, smoky beef brisket, and the creamy ranch dressing makes this sub absolutely irresistible.

I’m so excited for you to give this recipe a try! If you make these subs, be sure to snap a pic and tag me on Instagram—I love seeing your kitchen creations. Don’t forget to share your thoughts and any fun variations you come up with in the comments below. I can’t wait to hear how this recipe turns out for you!