Smoked Tea Chicken Two Ways: Sandwich or Salad Perfection

Sally Valenti on 07/19/2025

Looking for a flavorful way to upgrade your lunch or dinner? This Tea Rubbed Grilled Chicken recipe delivers smoky, savory goodness with a twist of sweetness and crunch. Whether you serve it as a piled-high sandwich or a chilled, creamy chicken salad, it’s a crowd-pleaser you’ll want to make again and again. Paired with a zesty Bourbon Maple Hops mayo, this dish is as versatile as it is delicious—perfect for meal prep, casual entertaining, or a quick bite with big flavor.

A plate of grilled chicken sandwiches on Kaiser rolls with lettuce and tomato, alongside a bowl of tea-rubbed chicken salad mixed with celery and carrots, garnished with crackers and a small dish of Bourbon Maple Hops mayo.

Whether you’re grilling for lunch or prepping for light summer dinners, this Smoked Tea Chicken recipe has you covered. Made with juicy grilled chicken breasts seasoned with a smoky tea rub and paired with a tangy-sweet Bourbon Maple Hops mayo, you can serve this two delicious ways: as a hearty sandwich or a crunchy chicken salad.

A close-up of a tea-rubbed grilled chicken sandwich and a shredded chicken salad sandwich on a wooden board, surrounded by sliced tomatoes, rub spice jars, and a glass of iced coffee. Bold white text reads 'Tea Rubbed Grilled Chicken Salad or Sandwiches' with 'javamomma.com' at the bottom.

The chicken gets a rich, smoky flavor thanks to the tea-based rub, while the dressing brings in a unique twist with a splash of pickle juice and the sweetness of maple and hops. Add crisp celery, carrots, or even grapes for extra crunch — or pile it onto toasted buns with fresh tomato and lettuce for the ultimate grilled sandwich.

Why You’ll Love It:

Easy to prep ahead for picnics, lunches, or weeknight dinners.
Great hot off the grill or chilled in salad form.
Totally customizable with your favorite crunchy add-ins or bread.

Tags: bourbon maple mayonaise chicken salad sandwich tea rub

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Smoked Tea Chicken Two Ways

Sally Valenti

Rated 5.0 stars by 1 users

Cuisine

American Grill

Author:

Sally Valenti

Servings

Prep Time

15 minutes

Cook Time

20 minutes

Grilled Chicken Sandwiches or Salad with Bourbon Maple Mayo

Ingredients

For the Chicken:
4 Chicken Breasts
2–3 Tbsp Olive Oil
3 Tbsp Smoked Tea Rub
For the Mayo Dressing:
1/2 cup Mayonnaise
2–3 tsp Bourbon Maple Hops
2 tsp Pickle Juice
Optional Chicken Salad Add-ins:
Shredded Carrots
Chopped Celery
Red Grapes (halved)
Optional Sandwich Fixings:
Kaiser Rolls
Lettuce
Sliced Tomato
Sliced Onion

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Directions

Prep the Chicken:
Pat chicken breasts dry and coat both sides with Smoked Tea Rub. Let sit while you heat your grill or flattop.
Grill the Chicken:
Brush grill or griddle with olive oil. Heat to medium-high. Cook chicken undisturbed until nicely browned, then flip. Lower heat, cover, and continue cooking until chicken reaches an internal temp of 165°F. Remove and let rest.
Make the Mayo:
In a small bowl, stir together mayo, Bourbon Maple Hops, and pickle juice. Set aside to let the flavors develop.
For Chicken Salad:
Chop or shred grilled chicken. In a large bowl, mix with the mayo dressing and desired add-ins like celery, grapes, or carrots. Serve on toasted bread, with crackers, or in lettuce cups.
For Sandwiches:
Toast rolls if desired. Layer grilled chicken with lettuce, tomato, and onion. Spread both sides of roll with the Bourbon Maple Mayo and enjoy!

Recipe Note

💡 Tips & Ideas

Make the chicken ahead and store in the fridge for quick assembly.

Try it in a wrap or pita for lunch on the go.

The mayo also makes a fantastic dip for sweet potato fries!

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