Applebees Clubhouse Grille Sandwich: A Delicious Review & Recipe

Applebees Clubhouse Grille Sandwich: Craving that iconic, towering sandwich from Applebees but don’t want to leave the house? Or maybe you’re looking to recreate a beloved memory? Well, you’re in the right place! I’m going to show you how to make a copycat version that tastes just like the original, maybe even better!

The Clubhouse sandwich, in its various forms, has a rich history, evolving from late 19th-century American social clubs. It was a staple for travelers and those seeking a substantial, satisfying meal. Applebees’ version takes this classic and elevates it with layers of smoked bacon, juicy turkey, crisp lettuce, ripe tomatoes, cheddar and Swiss cheese, and creamy mayo, all stacked high on toasted bread. It’s a symphony of flavors and textures that’s simply irresistible.

People adore the Applebees Clubhouse Grille Sandwich for its sheer indulgence. It’s a complete meal in one handheld package! The combination of savory meats, fresh vegetables, and melted cheeses creates a flavor explosion with every bite. Plus, it’s incredibly satisfying and filling, making it perfect for lunch or dinner. This copycat recipe allows you to enjoy that same delicious experience anytime you want, without the restaurant price tag. Get ready to build your own masterpiece!

Ingredients:

• For the Grilled Chicken Breast:
• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6-8 ounces each)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• For the Bacon:
• 6 slices bacon
• For the Bread:
• 3 slices sourdough bread, thick-cut
• 2 tablespoons butter, softened
• For the Cheese:
• 2 slices cheddar cheese
• 2 slices Swiss cheese
• For the Honey Mustard:
• 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice
• For the Vegetables:
• 1/2 cup shredded lettuce
• 1/4 cup sliced tomato

Preparing the Chicken

Okay, let’s start with the star of our sandwich – the grilled chicken! This is where we build the foundation of flavor.

1. Prepare the Chicken Breasts: First, we need to make sure our chicken breasts are even in thickness. This helps them cook evenly. Place each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap. Using a meat mallet or rolling pin, gently pound the chicken to an even thickness of about 1/2 inch. This also tenderizes the chicken, which is a bonus!
2. Season the Chicken: In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well to create a flavorful rub.
3. Marinate the Chicken: Rub the spice mixture all over the chicken breasts, ensuring they are evenly coated. Let the chicken marinate for at least 15 minutes at room temperature, or up to a few hours in the refrigerator. The longer it marinates, the more flavorful it will be!
4. Grill the Chicken: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If you don’t have a grill, a grill pan or even a regular skillet will work just fine. Lightly oil the grill grates (or your pan) to prevent sticking.
5. Cook the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts on the preheated grill. Cook for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure accuracy. The chicken should be nicely browned and cooked through.
6. Rest the Chicken: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful chicken.
7. Slice the Chicken: Slice the chicken breasts thinly against the grain. This makes them easier to eat in the sandwich. Set aside.

Cooking the Bacon

Next up, the crispy, smoky goodness of bacon! This adds a salty and crunchy element that complements the chicken perfectly.

1. Cook the Bacon: There are several ways to cook bacon, but I prefer either pan-frying or baking.
   • Pan-Frying: Place the bacon slices in a cold skillet. Cook over medium heat, turning occasionally, until crispy and golden brown. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes.
   • Baking: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Arrange the bacon slices on the baking sheet in a single layer. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until crispy.
2. Drain the Bacon: Once the bacon is cooked, remove it from the skillet or baking sheet and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease.
3. Crumble or Halve: You can either crumble the bacon into smaller pieces or cut each slice in half. Set aside.

Making the Honey Mustard

Now, let’s whip up the tangy and sweet honey mustard sauce. This is what ties all the flavors together!

1. Combine Ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, honey, and lemon juice until smooth and creamy.
2. Taste and Adjust: Taste the honey mustard and adjust the ingredients to your liking. If you prefer a sweeter sauce, add a little more honey. If you want more tang, add a squeeze more lemon juice.
3. Set Aside: Set the honey mustard aside until you’re ready to assemble the sandwich.

Preparing the Bread

The bread is the vessel that holds all these delicious ingredients, so let’s make sure it’s perfectly toasted and buttery!

1. Butter the Bread: Spread softened butter evenly on one side of each slice of sourdough bread.
2. Toast the Bread: Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Place the buttered side of the bread down in the skillet. Toast for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning!
3. Set Aside: Remove the toasted bread from the skillet and set aside.

Assembling the Clubhouse Grille Sandwich

Finally, the moment we’ve all been waiting for – assembling the masterpiece! This is where all our hard work comes together.

1. First Layer: Place one slice of toasted sourdough bread, buttered-side up, on a clean surface. Spread a generous amount of honey mustard on the bread.
2. Add Lettuce and Tomato: Top with half of the shredded lettuce and half of the sliced tomato.
3. Add Chicken and Cheese: Layer half of the sliced grilled chicken on top of the vegetables. Then, add one slice of cheddar cheese and one slice of Swiss cheese.
4. Second Layer: Place the second slice of toasted sourdough bread, buttered-side up, on top of the cheese. Spread another generous amount of honey mustard on the bread.
5. Add Bacon: Top with the cooked bacon.
6. Add Remaining Chicken and Vegetables: Layer the remaining sliced grilled chicken on top of the bacon. Add the remaining shredded lettuce and sliced tomato.
7. Final Layer: Place the third slice of toasted sourdough bread, buttered-side up, on top of the vegetables.
8. Secure the Sandwich: To keep the sandwich from falling apart, you can insert toothpicks through the layers. This is especially helpful if you’re cutting the sandwich in half.
9. Cut and Serve: Using a sharp knife, carefully cut the sandwich in half diagonally. This makes it easier to handle and eat.
10. Enjoy! Serve immediately and enjoy your homemade Applebee’s Clubhouse Grille Sandwich!

Conclusion:

This isn’t just another sandwich; it’s an experience! The Applebees Clubhouse Grille Sandwich recreation is a must-try because it perfectly balances smoky, savory, and creamy elements into one satisfying bite. From the crispy bacon and tender turkey to the sharp cheddar and tangy honey mustard, every ingredient plays a crucial role in creating a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. It’s a restaurant-quality sandwich you can easily make in your own kitchen, saving you money and allowing you to customize it to your exact preferences.

But the best part? It’s incredibly versatile! While the classic recipe is divine, feel free to experiment with different variations to make it your own signature sandwich. For a spicier kick, add a few slices of jalapeño or a dash of hot sauce to the honey mustard. If you’re a fan of avocado, adding a few slices will lend a creamy richness that complements the other ingredients beautifully. Vegetarian? No problem! Substitute the turkey and bacon with grilled portobello mushrooms or marinated tofu for a hearty and flavorful alternative. You could even try using different types of bread, like sourdough or ciabatta, to add a unique texture and flavor profile.

Serving suggestions are endless! This sandwich is fantastic on its own, but it also pairs perfectly with a variety of sides. Crispy french fries, sweet potato fries, or a simple side salad are all excellent choices. For a lighter meal, try serving it with a cup of tomato soup or a refreshing fruit salad. And don’t forget the drinks! A cold glass of iced tea, lemonade, or your favorite soda will complete the meal perfectly.

I truly believe that this Applebees Clubhouse Grille Sandwich recipe is a winner. It’s easy to follow, uses readily available ingredients, and delivers incredible flavor. I’ve made it countless times for myself, my family, and my friends, and it’s always a hit. The combination of textures and tastes is simply irresistible, and the ability to customize it to your liking makes it a recipe you’ll want to keep in your repertoire for years to come.

So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, fire up your grill or skillet, and get ready to create a sandwich masterpiece! I’m confident that you’ll love this recipe as much as I do. And once you’ve tried it, I’d love to hear about your experience. Did you stick to the original recipe, or did you add your own unique twist? What sides did you serve it with? Share your photos and comments in the section below – I can’t wait to see what you create! Happy sandwich-making! I am sure you will enjoy this Applebees Clubhouse Grille Sandwich.

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