Basil Chicken Sandwich

This recipe is simple on purpose. Lightly toasted buns, a slather of mayo, and the Italian seasoning do all the heavy lifting. You can stack on lettuce, tomato, or fresh basil leaves if you want more crunch and color, but the base sandwich is pretty amazing all by itself. It works for lunch, quick dinners, or as an easy main for a casual backyard hang.

This is the kind of recipe that fits into your regular rotation without much planning. Most of the ingredients live in the pantry or fridge already. The whole thing goes from cutting board to plate in about fifteen minutes, which makes it perfect for busy nights when you still want something hot and homemade.

Why You’ll Love This Dish

• Ready In Minutes – Thin cutlets cook fast, so dinner hits the table in about fifteen minutes.
• Big Basil Flavor – Italian seasoning brings basil, oregano, and garlic to every bite without any complicated sauces.
• Simple Ingredients – Pantry staples and basic fridge items come together in a way that tastes restaurant-level.
• Customizable Sandwich – Keep it basic with mayo and a bun, or stack it up with lettuce, tomato, or fresh basil.
• Great For Leftovers – Extra chicken slices easily into salads, wraps, or next-day sandwiches.

Recipe Shopping List

Wondering if you have to hit the store? Here's the list of items you'll need to make this recipe. For specific amounts, please refer to the printable recipe card at the bottom of the post.

• Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts – Meaty, lean, and easy to slice into thin cutlets that cook quickly and stay tender. You can also by “thin-sliced” chicken breasts to cut down on some prep.
• Olive Oil – Brings flavor and helps sear the chicken to a light golden crust. Any neutral cooking oil works in a pinch.
• Salt – Pulls the flavor forward and helps the seasoning grab onto the chicken.
• Black Pepper – Adds gentle heat and depth that pairs nicely with basil and garlic.
• Granulated Garlic – Coats the chicken evenly and brings concentrated garlic flavor without any chopping.
• Italian Seasoning Blend – A dried herb mix that usually includes basil, oregano, and thyme. Perfect shortcut for that herby, basil-forward flavor. I really like the Spiceology Pizza Seasoning I have linked down in the recipe card. It has some red pepper flakes and additional seasoning that adds an extra punch. Another great option is the Gourmet Garden Italian Seasoning blend. It is fresh and amazing.
• Buns – Soft sandwich buns or brioche-style rolls that toast well and hold up to juicy chicken. Another great option is my homemade Focaccia Bread!
• Mayonnaise – Adds richness and moisture and ties everything together. Use your favorite brand or a homemade version.

How To Make This Recipe

This is just the overview so you can see what you're actually getting into here. When you are cooking, you'll want to use the full recipe at the bottom of the page.

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1. Slice The Chicken – Cut each chicken breast in half horizontally to create thin cutlets that cook quickly and evenly.
2. Season The Cutlets – Coat the chicken on all sides with salt, pepper, granulated garlic, and Italian seasoning so each piece is fully covered.
3. Sear The Chicken – Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken cutlets and cook until browned on one side, then flip and brown the other, cooking to an internal temperature of about 163°F.
4. Toast The Buns – While the chicken rests briefly, toast the buns cut-side down in the same pan or on a skillet until lightly browned.
5. Build The Sandwiches – Spread mayo on the toasted buns, add the basil-seasoned chicken cutlets, and stack on any extra toppings you like. Serve hot.

Recipe FAQ

Serve This With

• Pan-Fried Potato Wedges – Crispy potatoes that turn this into a full meal.
• Italian Pasta Salad – A bright, herby side that plays well with the basil notes.
• Griddled Zucchini – This simple veggie side is perfect next to this sandwich!
• Caesar Salad – A sandwich and salad is a classic combo, and this one is creamy, homemade, and incredible.
• Garlic Parmesan Fries – What's better with a sandwich than fries?

Basil Chicken Sandwiches bring a lot of flavor with very little effort. Thin cutlets, pantry seasoning, and toasted buns come together into a quick, satisfying meal that feels fresh and homemade. Keep this one handy for busy nights, easy lunches, or anytime you want a simple chicken sandwich that still tastes special.