Flavor-Packed Chicken Torta Sandwich

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The Flavor-Packed Chicken Torta Sandwich is a bold, satisfying Mexican street food favorite featuring juicy, seasoned chicken layered with refried beans, creamy avocado, tangy pickled jalapeños, and melty cheese, all stuffed inside a toasted telera or bolillo roll. With its mix of textures and rich, savory flavors, it’s the ultimate handheld meal for lunch, dinner, or a weekend treat.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

chicken breasts or thighs (grilled or pan-seared)telera or bolillo rollsrefried beansmayonnaiseavocadosliced tomatoessliced onionspickled jalapeñosshredded lettuceMexican melting cheese (like Oaxaca or mozzarella)chipotle or adobo sauce (optional)lime juiceolive oilsalt and pepper

directions

Season and cook the chicken using olive oil, salt, pepper, and optional chipotle or adobo sauce until fully cooked and nicely browned. Set aside.

Slice the telera or bolillo rolls in half and lightly toast the inside on a skillet or griddle until golden.

Spread a layer of refried beans on the bottom half of the roll and mayonnaise on the top half.

Add sliced avocado and squeeze a bit of lime juice over it for freshness.

Layer the cooked chicken on top of the beans, followed by tomato slices, onions, pickled jalapeños, and shredded lettuce.

Top with shredded cheese and place the top bun over the sandwich.

Optional: Press the sandwich lightly in a hot skillet or sandwich press until the cheese melts and everything is heated through.

Serve hot, optionally with extra jalapeños or lime wedges on the side.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 4 sandwiches.Preparation time: 15 minutesCooking time: 15 minutesAssembly time: 5 minutesTotal time: 35 minutes

Variations

Swap the chicken for carnitas, carne asada, or grilled veggies for a different protein.

Use spicy chipotle mayo or crema for added kick.

Add a fried egg on top for a torta ahogada twist.

Include sliced radishes or pickled red onions for added crunch.

Make it spicy with hot sauce or habanero slices.

storage/reheating

Store any leftover cooked chicken and toppings separately in the fridge for up to 3 days.Assemble fresh when ready to eat.To reheat the sandwich, wrap in foil and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes or heat in a sandwich press until warmed through.

FAQs

What is a torta sandwich?

A torta is a Mexican sandwich made with a soft roll and filled with meats, beans, cheese, and a variety of toppings.

Can I use another type of bread?

Yes, ciabatta or a crusty French roll can work if telera or bolillo is unavailable.

Is this sandwich spicy?

It can be mildly to very spicy depending on the type and amount of jalapeños or sauce you use.

Can I make it vegetarian?

Absolutely—use grilled vegetables, beans, and cheese for a satisfying vegetarian option.

What’s the best cheese to use?

Oaxaca cheese is ideal, but mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even cheddar can work.

Can I prepare it ahead of time?

You can prep all the components ahead, but assemble just before serving to avoid sogginess.

Can I grill the sandwich?

Yes, grilling adds extra flavor and melts the cheese perfectly.

Can I freeze this?

It’s not recommended to freeze the whole sandwich, but you can freeze the cooked chicken.

What sides go well with this?

Try chips, elote (Mexican street corn), or a simple salad.

Is this suitable for kids?

Yes, just adjust the spice level to suit their taste.

Conclusion

The Flavor-Packed Chicken Torta Sandwich is a mouthwatering mix of bold Mexican flavors and comforting textures. It’s perfect for casual meals, easy to customize, and guaranteed to impress anyone who takes a bite. Make it once, and it’ll become a go-to favorite in your sandwich lineup.

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