When you’re craving comfort-food levels of satisfaction but need to keep things light, the Low Carb Chicken Club Sandwich is your answer. Packed between crispy lettuce “buns,” every bite brings together tender chicken breast, smoky bacon, melty cheese, savory deli ham, juicy tomatoes, and creamy mayo. This delight not only bursts with flavor and texture, but it’s also refreshingly simple to make. Whether you’re following a low-carb lifestyle or just love reinvented classics, this sandwich will have you looking at lunch in a whole new (and delicious) way!

Low Carb Chicken Club Sandwich Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

All you really need are a handful of simple, fresh ingredients to make this Low Carb Chicken Club Sandwich shine. Each one plays its own special part, building up layers of flavor, color, and that irresistible club texture we all know and love.

Lettuce Leaves (Iceberg): These sturdy leaves become your “bread,” adding crunch and holding everything together without the carbs.
Chicken Breast (cooked): Tender, lean, and packed with protein, it gives the sandwich its hearty base.
Bacon: Four slices bring smoky, crispy perfection—the club sandwich essential you can’t skip.
Deli Ham: Adds an extra layer of savory goodness and classic deli flavor.
Cheese: Melts beautifully and contrasts both the cold lettuce and warm bacon for ultimate mouthfeel.
Tomatoes: Juicy slices provide tart brightness to balance all the rich flavors.
Mayonnaise: Creamy mayo ties everything together and keeps the sandwich deliciously moist.

How to Make Low Carb Chicken Club Sandwich

Step 1: Prepare Ingredients and Bacon

Start by placing a skillet over medium heat and cooking your bacon until it’s brown and irresistibly crispy. While the bacon sizzles, warm up the cooked chicken breast—either give it a quick pan-sear or a few seconds in the microwave, just enough to take the chill off. Meanwhile, pick your six best iceberg lettuce leaves and use a sharp knife to trim them into large, square-ish shapes; this little trick makes stacking the Low Carb Chicken Club Sandwich much easier!

Step 2: Layer the Foundation

On a cutting board or plate, lay out two lettuce leaves as your bottom “bread.” Generously spread half of the mayonnaise on them—the mayo will help everything stick together while keeping the lettuce crisp. Now, start layering with deli ham, then the juicy warmed chicken breast, and finally a slice of cheese right on top. This trio forms the rich, hearty core of your club.

Step 3: Add “The Classics”

Take two more fresh lettuce leaves for the middle layer, carefully placing them over your mound of meaty goodness. Spread the remaining mayo on top of these leaves. Now, gently lay on those thick, vibrant tomato slices, and top them with your still-warm, crunchy bacon strips. This is where the Low Carb Chicken Club Sandwich starts to look picture-perfect.

Step 4: Seal and Slice

Cover it all with the final pair of lettuce leaves. To keep your stack neat and make slicing easier, insert four toothpicks or sandwich skewers—one near each corner. Slide a sharp knife diagonally from corner to corner, creating four smaller, club-style sandwiches with all those gorgeous layers visible in every bite. This recipe makes two hearty servings or four adorable mini clubs!

How to Serve Low Carb Chicken Club Sandwich

Garnishes

You can never go wrong with a simple garnish! Try sprinkling a little freshly cracked black pepper or add a sprinkle of smoked paprika over the mayo for extra color and flavor. A few fresh herb leaves, such as basil or a bit of parsley, can instantly brighten up your serving platter and bring a touch of elegance to your Low Carb Chicken Club Sandwich.

Side Dishes

Pair this sandwich with crunchy dill pickles, a handful of pork rinds for an ultra-low-carb crunch, or some crisp veggie sticks—think celery, cucumbers, or sweet bell peppers. If you’re in the mood for something a little fancier, a tangy side salad with lemon vinaigrette makes a refreshing counterpart. Let the side dish bring out the best in your Low Carb Chicken Club Sandwich!

Creative Ways to Present

Turn the Low Carb Chicken Club Sandwich into a showstopper by serving it deconstructed, arranging all the layers on a platter so guests can build their own. Or, slice them into even smaller finger sandwiches and spear with decorative toothpicks for the most irresistible party platter. You can even roll everything up in the lettuce leaves for club sandwich “wraps” that are perfect for picnics and lunches on the go.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftover Low Carb Chicken Club Sandwich, wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container in the fridge. The lettuce will stay fresh for up to 24 hours, but it’s best enjoyed as soon as possible for maximum crunch. Keep any extra mayo on the side and spread it fresh just before eating to avoid soggy spots!

Freezing

While most traditional sandwiches can be frozen, the lettuce in this Low Carb Chicken Club Sandwich won’t hold up well in the freezer. The texture changes and becomes limp after thawing. If you need to prep ahead, freeze just the cooked chicken and bacon separately, then assemble fresh when you’re ready to enjoy.

Reheating

You don’t need to reheat this sandwich if eating leftovers, but if you prefer, you can gently warm the chicken and bacon in the microwave for about 15-30 seconds before rebuilding your sandwich with fresh lettuce and the rest of the ingredients. Avoid microwaving the assembled sandwich—it can wilt the lettuce and make your masterpiece a bit less vibrant.

FAQs

Can I use another type of lettuce instead of iceberg?

Absolutely! While iceberg provides sturdy crunch and classic look, you could also try romaine, butter lettuce, or even large leaf Boston lettuce for a slightly different texture. Just be sure the leaves are strong enough to hold all those hearty layers of the Low Carb Chicken Club Sandwich.

What cheese works best for the Low Carb Chicken Club Sandwich?

You can get creative! Cheddar, Swiss, provolone, or even pepper jack all taste fantastic here. Choose your favorite or try a combination for an extra-special twist on your sandwich.

Could I swap out the chicken breast for something else?

Definitely. Thinly sliced turkey breast, rotisserie chicken, or even grilled tofu (if you’re going meatless) would be delicious. It’s all about personalizing the Low Carb Chicken Club Sandwich to your own taste!

How do I keep the lettuce from getting soggy?

Pat your lettuce leaves dry with a paper towel before assembling, and don’t overload with too much mayo or wet tomatoes. Assemble just before serving for the freshest, crunchiest results.

Is this sandwich meal-prep friendly?

Yes, with a little prep! Cook your chicken and bacon ahead of time, keep all ingredients stored separately, and assemble the Low Carb Chicken Club Sandwich right before eating for the best flavor and texture.

Final Thoughts

Whipping up this Low Carb Chicken Club Sandwich is not only a treat for the tastebuds, it’s a satisfying project you’ll love sharing with family or friends. If you haven’t tried swapping out bread for lettuce yet, get ready to fall in love with this creative club twist. Dive in, experiment with your favorite deli fillings, and let this sandwich earn its spot in your regular recipe rotation!

Low Carb Chicken Club Sandwich Recipe

★★★★★

5 from 24 reviews

Author: anna
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 2 servings or 4 small sandwiches 1x
Diet: Low Calorie

Print Recipe

Description

This Low Carb Chicken Club Sandwich is a delightful twist on the classic club sandwich, using lettuce leaves instead of bread for a healthier, low-carb option. Packed with layers of savory chicken, crispy bacon, deli ham, cheese, and fresh tomatoes, this sandwich is a satisfying and flavorful meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Lettuce Leaves

6 large leaves of Iceberg Lettuce, cut into squares

Chicken Breast

6 oz cooked Chicken Breast

Bacon

4 slices, cooked

Deli Ham

4 oz

Cheese

2 slices

Tomatoes

4 slices

Mayonnaise

2 tbsp

Instructions

Cook Bacon and Chicken: Cook the bacon until crispy and warm up the cooked chicken.
Prepare Lettuce Layers: Cut the lettuce leaves into squares. Place 2 lettuce leaves on a plate, spread half of the mayonnaise, then layer ham, chicken, and cheese. Top with 2 more lettuce leaves and remaining mayonnaise.
Assemble the Sandwich: Add tomato slices and bacon. Top with the last 2 lettuce leaves. Secure with toothpicks and slice the sandwich into 4 pieces.
Serve: Enjoy this low-carb delight!

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Method: Assembling
Cuisine: American