Chicken Avocado Bacon Sandwiches
One of my 2020 goals was to get more intentional with meal planning—and every time I stick to it, I’m reminded how much it simplifies life as a coach, athlete, and mom. This sandwich recipe is one of our weekday MVPs: it’s simple, packed with protein and healthy fats, and leaves me feeling fueled but not heavy—ideal for post-run recovery or just a fast, clean dinner on a training day.
Bonus? The chicken prep makes enough for leftovers, which I always plan for. (Although the casserole idea I tried with the extras? Eh, not blog-worthy. Live and learn.)
Whether you’re in peak marathon training or just need a go-to healthy sandwich, this one checks all the boxes.
Chicken Avocado Bacon Sandwiches
Chicken Avocado Bacon Sandwiches
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4 Boneless Chicken Breasts
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1/8 cup olive oil extra virgin
- 1 zest lime
Toppings
- 1 avocado sliced
- 1/4 cup cilantro fresh
- 1 tomato sliced
- 1 bacon slices
Instructions
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For the chicken and marinade: Gently press each thigh between 2 pieces of plastic wrap to flatten (do this with a rolling pin, it's less brutal than pounding). Season the chicken on both sides with salt and pepper. Place the chicken in a large resealable plastic bag with the oil, cumin and lime zest and juice. Seal the bag and squish everything around until everything is coated by everything. Rest on the counter for 1 hour.
*I forgot to put these in a marinating bag in the morning, so we just sprinkled cumin and spritzed with lime juice. Assuming it would be way better if done as written!*
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For the sandwich toppings: In a bowl, add the cilantro, bacon, avocado, tomatoes and hot sauce if using. Fold to combine gently so the tomatoes don't get mashed, then taste and season with a pinch of salt if needed.
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Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat: Remove the chicken from the bag, shaking off excess marinade. Place the chicken over the direct heat of the grill (or on the grill pan). Once the chicken releases from the grill and can be flipped, flip it to the indirect heat side of the grill (or lower the heat on the grill pan) and grill until cooked through, just 3 to 4 minutes more. Remove the chicken to a cutting board and cover with aluminum foil for 10 minutes. Roughly chop the chicken.
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Assemble and serve!
*Can add cheese on top of the chicken if desired!*
Adapted from Food Network’s Sunny’s Grilled Chicken Sliders.
FAQ: Chicken Avocado Bacon Sandwiches for Athletes
Is this sandwich good for runners or athletes?
Yes! It’s high in lean protein (chicken and bacon), has healthy fats (avocado), and anti-inflammatory ingredients (like lime and olive oil). Perfect for post-workout recovery.
Can I meal prep this sandwich?
Absolutely. Cook the chicken ahead of time and store toppings separately. Assemble in under 5 minutes on busy training days.
What bread do you recommend for this?
Anything from a whole wheat bun to a gluten-free wrap works. Choose what works best for your digestion and training load.
