Grilled Chicken Caesar Sandwiches

A gourmet twist on the classic Caesar sandwich featuring marinated grilled chicken thighs, fresh fennel, and basil on brioche buns. The sandwich is elevated with a creamy Dijon-cornichon dressing that adds tangy, savory flavors.

4 servings
1 hr 6 min

Ingredients

  • 1 Tbsp Dijon mustard
  • 2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 2 cloves garlic
  • Tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • 2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
  • cup extra-virgin olive oil
  • 6 Tbsp mayonnaise
  • ¼ cup cornichons
  • to taste Kosher salt
  • 4 pieces skinless boneless chicken thighs
  • 4 pieces brioche buns
  • 1 medium fennel bulb
  • 1 cup basil leaves
  • torn basil leaves

Cooking Instructions

  1. 1.

    Whisk mustard, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, 2 Tbsp. lemon juice, and 2 tsp. pepper in a medium bowl. Stream in 1/3 cup oil, whisking constantly until emulsified. Transfer half of marinade to a small bowl, then whisk in mayonnaise and cornichons; season dressing with salt. Set aside.

    10 min

  2. 2.

    Season chicken thighs all over with salt and place in bowl with remaining marinade; turn to coat. Let sit at room temperature, turning occasionally, at least 30 minutes, or cover and chill up to 4 hours.

    30 min

  3. 3.

    Prepare a grill for medium-high heat; lightly oil grate. Grill chicken, turning halfway through, until deeply browned and cooked through, 8-10 minutes. Transfer to a platter and let rest 5 minutes.

    15 min

  4. 4.

    Meanwhile, grill buns, cut side down, until lightly toasted, about 30 seconds. Transfer to platter with chicken.

    1 min

  5. 5.

    Toss sliced fennel, fennel fronds, basil, and remaining 2 tsp. oil and 2 tsp. lemon juice in a medium bowl to combine; season with salt and pepper.

    5 min

  6. 6.

    Spread reserved dressing over cut sides of each bun. Assemble sandwiches with buns, chicken, and fennel salad.

    5 min