Herbed Chicken Bagel Sandwich

Name: Herbed Chicken Bagel Sandwich
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 2 sandwiches
Ingredients: 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped; 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped; 1 teaspoon garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 bagels, halved and toasted; 4 tablespoons herb cream cheese spread; Lettuce leaves; Tomato slices

Highlighted under: Easy Cooking Recipes

I love this Herbed Chicken Bagel Sandwich because it beautifully blends savory herbs with tender chicken and a perfectly toasted bagel. It’s one of my favorite quick lunches that I can whip up in under 30 minutes. The combination of fresh herbs and creamy spread elevates the flavor profile, making it satisfying and wholesome. Whether I need a snack to power through the day or a light meal, this sandwich hits all the right notes. It's perfect for busy days when flavor and freshness matter.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-27T09:46:28.440Z

Creating this Herbed Chicken Bagel Sandwich was a delightful journey through layers of flavor. I roasted the chicken with a medley of fresh herbs to enhance its natural essence, which I found crucial for a vibrant taste. My secret was to marinate the chicken in olive oil and finely chopped herbs beforehand, allowing the flavors to penetrate deeply.

Each bite bursts with a freshness that makes this sandwich stand out. I also recommend using a homemade herb cream cheese spread to add creaminess and elevate the dish further. It’s become a staple in my kitchen for quick meals.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Fresh herbs impart a vibrant flavor that elevates every bite
Creamy herb spread adds a luxurious touch
Quick preparation makes it perfect for busy weeknights

The Importance of Fresh Herbs

Fresh herbs like parsley and basil are not just for garnish; they play a crucial role in the flavor profile of the Herbed Chicken Bagel Sandwich. The herbaceous notes of parsley balance the richness of the cream cheese, while basil adds a sweet, aromatic element that brightens the dish. I recommend using freshly chopped herbs for the best flavor—dried herbs simply cannot replicate the vibrant taste and aroma that fresh herbs provide in this recipe.

When preparing the marinade, let the chicken sit with the herbs for at least 15 minutes. This resting time allows the flavors to meld and penetrate the meat, yielding juicy, flavorful chicken. If you have more time, marinating for up to an hour in the refrigerator will deepen the flavor even further. For a twist, consider adding rosemary or thyme to the mix for an additional aromatic layer.

Toasting the Bagels Just Right

Toasting your bagels enhances their texture and flavor, creating a pleasing contrast with the soft chicken and creamy spread. For optimal results, pop them into a toaster or under the broiler until they are golden brown and slightly crispy on the edges. This step is essential; a well-toasted bagel can prevent the sandwich from becoming soggy and also adds an enjoyable crunch that complements the other ingredients beautifully.

If you want to try something different, consider using flavored bagels, such as everything or onion bagels. They can add an interesting twist that complements the herbaceous notes of the chicken. Additionally, if you're short on time, you can also use pre-made bagel chips as a base for an open-faced sandwich version.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for a delicious Herbed Chicken Bagel Sandwich:

For the Chicken

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped
1 teaspoon garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Sandwich

2 bagels, halved and toasted
4 tablespoons herb cream cheese spread
Lettuce leaves
Tomato slices

Enjoy the fresh ingredients in your sandwich!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to assemble your Herbed Chicken Bagel Sandwich:

Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, mix olive oil, chopped parsley, basil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken breasts and marinate for at least 15 minutes.

Cook the Chicken

Preheat a grill or pan over medium heat. Cook the marinated chicken breasts for about 7-8 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked. Let them rest for a few minutes before slicing.

Assemble the Sandwich

Spread cream cheese on the toasted bagel halves. Layer with lettuce, tomato slices, and the sliced chicken. Top with the other bagel half.

Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious sandwich!

Pro Tips

Try adding avocado for an extra creamy texture or swapping legumes for a vegetarian option.

Make-Ahead Tips

If you're looking to prepare this sandwich in advance, the marinated chicken can be cooked ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just reheat the sliced chicken in a skillet over low heat until warmed through. This makes for a quick assembly during busy weekdays without sacrificing flavor or freshness.

The herb cream cheese spread can also be made in advance. Simply mix the cream cheese with fresh herbs and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. It can last about a week, making it perfect for a quick breakfast or snack. Consider spreading it on crackers for a delicious appetizer, too.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

This Herbed Chicken Bagel Sandwich pairs wonderfully with a side of fresh fruit or a light salad, making it a complete meal. For added texture, feel free to incorporate sliced red onions, cucumbers, or avocado. Each brings an additional crunch and nutrition to the sandwich, enhancing both its taste and appearance.

If you're looking to switch things up, try using different proteins such as grilled turkey or tofu for a vegetarian version. Season them similarly with the fresh herb marinade. You can also adapt the spread by adding ingredients like lemon zest or a pinch of smoked paprika to elevate the flavors even further.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use leftover chicken for this sandwich?

Absolutely! Leftover chicken works perfectly for a quick assembly.

→ What can I substitute for the bagel?

You can use any bread of your choice, like ciabatta or whole grain.

→ How can I make this sandwich vegetarian?

Swap the chicken for grilled vegetables or a chickpea salad for a tasty vegetarian option.

→ Can I prepare the herb cream cheese in advance?

Yes, you can make the herb cream cheese ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to a week.